Exhibit

Adult Classes

Daytime Classes available in the Spring and Fall Schedule.
Evening Classes available all year around.

Accessibility

Fall 2023: September - December

PDF of fall Booklet 

*PDF download includes refund/cancellation policy.

Spring 2024: January - May

PDF of Spring Booklet coming soon 

*PDF download includes refund/cancellation policy.


We offer weekly classes in painting, drawing, ceramics, pottery, mixed media, metal design and jewelry! Classes typically meet once a week for six weeks. Most adult level classes are open to ages 16 and up. See our full Adult Schedule below and find the perfect class for you!

Become a Member Today!

Adult Classes Pic
Members of Emerge Gallery & Art Center, Home of the Pitt County Arts Council, are able to sign up for classes at a reduced member price. Not a member? Become a member of Emerge today! All memberships are on a yearly basis. Click here to learn more about our memberships.

Class Guidelines and refund policy

  • Emerge asks that if the student is sick or showing signs of becoming sick, that you do not attend class.
  • Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) should contact the Programs Director at paula@emergegallery.com at least two weeks prior to the start of class. 
  • Most of our studio classrooms are located on our second floor, however we are able to make all of our art opportunities available on the first floor if you are unable to walk upstairs. We ask that a request is made at least two weeks prior to the start of class.

PAINTING AND DRAWING

DAYTIME CLASS OPTION

Intro to painting, drawing AND mixed media

Do you want to learn to paint or draw? Are you interested in working with mixed media? Would you like to perfect your skills? If so, sign up for this fun class! This open studio style class offers fellowship with other artists interested in painting, drawing, and mixed media while collaborating together on great new project ideas. [Min. 4, Max. 12]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.
First day supplies are included. The instructor will provide a supply list at the first class.

Cost: $75 for Emerge members, $115 for non-members

Tuesdays, 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Instructor: Gail Ritzer

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 7 – December 12 (5 classes) Reg. Code: PDM-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

​Register Here​

Spring Cost (Session 1 and 3): $90 for Emerge members, $130 for non-members
Spring Cost (Session 2): $75 for Emerge members, $115 for non-members

Tuesdays, 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Instructor: Gail Ritzer

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 16 – February 20 (6 classes) Reg. Code: PDM-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 5 – April 9 (5 classes) Reg. Code: PDM-06
*Skipping the week of March 26

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 23 – May 28 (6 classes) Reg. Code: PDM-07

register here


EVENING CLASS OPTION

Drawing AND Painting

Whether it is watercolor, acrylic, oils, charcoal, or graphite that strikes your fancy, we have the class for you! Our classes are small and taught like several private lessons at once, geared towards your specific interests and subject matter choices. You will learn just as much from your classmates as you will from your instructor with an open studio feel. Our class structure is great for beginners or experienced painters and drawers to further their skills! [Min. 4, Max. 12]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.
First day supplies are included. The instructor will provide a supply list at the first class.

Cost: $85 for Emerge members, $125 for non-members

Tuesdays, 6:00pm – 8:30pm
Instructor: Kimberly Cusack

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 7 – December 12 (5 classes) Reg. Code: PAD-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

Register Here

Spring Cost: $100 for Emerge members, $140 for non-members

Tuesdays, 6:00pm – 8:30pm
Instructor: Kimberly Cusack

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 16 – February 20 (6 classes) Reg. Code: PAD-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 5 – April 9 (6 classes) Reg. Code: PAD-06

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 23 – May 28 (6 classes) Reg. Code: PAD-07

register here

Thursdays, 6:00pm – 8:30pm
Instructor: Britney Spangler

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 9 – December 14 (5 classes) Reg. Code: PAO-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

Register Here

Thursdays, 6:00pm – 8:30pm
Instructor: TBA

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 18 – February 22 (6 classes) Reg. Code: PAO-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 7 – April 11 (6 classes) Reg. Code: PAO-06

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 25 – May 30 (6 classes) Reg. Code: PAO-07

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Private Lessons in Drawing and Painting are also available!

Click Here for more information


PRINTMAKING

Printmaking

Learn how to make colorful art while having fun with this fast and easy hand printing method. All materials are provided. This class is for beginners and for those with more art experience. You will create with printing leaves and other botanical materials, stencils, and with common household objects. Your final creations will make great original hand printed cards and art prints you can frame. No experience needed. [Min. 4, Max. 12]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.
General supplies are included, however students are welcome to bring additional supplies.

Spring Cost (Session 1 and 3): $90 for Emerge members, $130 for non-members
Spring Cost (Session 2): $75 for Emerge members, $115 for non-members

Wednesdays, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Instructor: Alex Chisler

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 17 – February 21 (6 classes) Reg. Code: GPM-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 6 – April 10 (5 classes) Reg. Code: GPM-06
*Skipping the week of March 26

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 24 – May 29 (6 classes) Reg. Code: GPM-07

register here


BOOKMAKING

Intro to Bookmaking

Learn the basics of book making! This course will cover a variety of techniques including sewn bindings, folded structures, and using adhesives. Participants will construct both hard cover and soft cover books, books for journaling and sketching, as well as artist books. Tools and some materials provided. No experience needed. [Min. 4, Max. 12]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.
General supplies are included, however students are welcome to bring additional supplies.

Spring Cost: $100 for Emerge members, $140 for non-members

Wednesdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: Liz Stiener (session 1 & 2)

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 17 – February 21 (6 classes) Reg. Code: ITB-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 6 – April 10 (6 classes) Reg. Code: ITB-06

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 24 – May 29 (6 classes) Reg. Code: ITB-07

register here


Private Lessons in Bookmaking are also available!

Click Here for more information


METAL DESIGN AND JEWELRY

DAYTIME AND EVENING CLASS OPTIONS

Metalsmithing Basics

Create your own unique jewelry with a found object from home or our studio! In this class we will use beginner level stone setting and hand fabrication to create your own jewelry piece. Students are introduced to essential bench tools, workspace, and techniques of a metalsmith or bench jeweler such as sawing, piercing, riveting, texture, and patina. You will learn how to combine several techniques and create a work of art that has meaning to you. No experience needed. [Min. 4, Max. 7]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.
Supplies are included with the exception of fine metals, such as silver, that students may wish to use in class.

Open Studio: As a benefit of enrollment in our metals program, current students are able to come in and work during our open studio hours currently scheduled for Wednesday evenings from 6:00pm until 8:30pm. Additional details will be discussed on the first night of class.

Daytime METAL DESIGN Class Option

Spring Cost (Session 1 and 3): $110 for Emerge members, $150 for non-members
Spring Cost (Session 2): $95 for Emerge members, $135 for non-members

Tuesdays, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Instructor: Lisette Fee

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 16 – February 20 (6 classes) Reg. Code: TMD-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 5 – April 9 (5 classes) Reg. Code: TMD-06
*Skipping the week of March 26

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 23 – May 28 (6 classes) Reg. Code: TMD-07

register here


Evening Metal Design Class Option

Cost: $115 for Emerge members, $155 for non-members

Tuesdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: Sonya Coulson Rook

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 7 – December 12 (5 classes) Reg. Code: AMD-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

Register Here

Spring Cost: $130 for Emerge members, $170 for non-members

Tuesdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: Sonya Coulson Rook

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 16 – February 20 (6 classes) Reg. Code: AMD-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 5 – April 9 (6 classes) Reg. Code: AMD-06

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 23 – May 28 (6 classes) Reg. Code: AMD-07

register here

Thursdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: Lisette Fee

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 18 – February 22 (6 classes) Reg. Code: IMD-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 7 – April 11 (6 classes) Reg. Code: IMD-06

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 25 – May 30 (6 Classes) Reg. Code: IMD-07

register here


Private Lessons in Metal Design AND Jewelry Making are also available!

Click Here for more information


HANDBUILDING AND WHEEL THROWING

DAYTIME POTTERY CLASS OPTIONS

Daytime Potter’s Wheel

This is the perfect class for those interested in learning and perfecting throwing on the potter's wheel. Intermediate and advanced students will work with the instructor on problem solving and refining their skills.This is the perfect class for those interested in learning and perfecting throwing on the potter's wheel. Intermediate and advanced students will work with the instructor on problem solving and refining their skills. Advanced skills such as increasing scale, pulling spouts, and attaching handles will be addressed to challenge potters who have more wheel experience. Intro to Wheel Throwing is a prerequisite to this class. [Min. 4, Max. 8]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.

Cost: $75 for Emerge members, $115 for non-members

Supply Fees: $25 per bag of clay (covers glazes and firing)
$20 Tool Kit (includes bucket, large sponge for cleaning, wooden and metal rib, wire tool, needle tool, double end loop and large loop trimming tool, modeling tool, and sponge)

Tuesdays, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Instructor: Erika Gibson

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 7 – December 12 (5 classes) Reg. Code: DPW-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

Register Here

Spring Cost (Session 1 and 3): $90 for Emerge members, $130 for non-members
Spring Cost (Session 2): $75 for Emerge members, $115 for non-members

Tuesdays, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Instructor: Erika Gibson

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 16 – February 20 (6 classes) Reg. Code: DPW-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 5 – April 9 (5 classes) Reg. Code: DPW-06
*Skipping the week of March 26

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 23 – May 28 (6 classes) Reg. Code: DPW-07

register here


New Class: Intro to Wheel Throwing

If you’ve never tried the potter’s wheel but have always wanted to, then this class is for you. If you’ve thrown on the wheel before but need a refresher or are new to Emerge, then this class is for you too! During this introductory class, you will learn the fundamentals necessary for throwing cylinders and bowls. The session will focus on techniques for centering, opening, pulling, trimming, and glazing. Class size is restricted so students can get the technical instruction required to establish a good foundation for continued learning. This class is a prerequisite for continuing pottery classes. [Min. 4, Max. 6]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.

Cost: $85 for Emerge members, $125 for non-members

Supply Fees: $25 per bag of clay (covers glazes and firing)
$20 Tool Kit (includes bucket, large sponge for cleaning, wooden and metal rib, wire tool, needle tool, double end loop and large loop trimming tool, modeling tool, and sponge)

Thursdays, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Instructor: Stacey Swinson

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 9 - December 14 (5 classes) Reg. Code: DWT-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

Register Here - 2 seats

Spring Cost (Session 1 and 3): $100 for Emerge members, $140 for non-members
Spring Cost (Session 2): $85 for Emerge members, $125 for non-members

Thursdays, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Instructor: Stacey Swinson

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 18 – February 22 (6 classes) Reg. Code: DWT-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 7 – April 11 (5 classes) Reg. Code: DWT-06
*Skipping the week of March 26

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 25 – May 30 (6 classes) Reg. Code: DWT-07

register here


Daytime Handbuilding

In this class you will cover the fundamentals necessary for handbuilding such as rolling slabs and coils, using an extruder, and learn how your hands make great tools. In addition, glazing techniques and surface decoration will be covered. Students will learn how to make various seasonal projects, all of which make great handmade gifts for friends and family. [Min. 4, Max. 8]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.

Cost: $75 for Emerge members, $115 for non-members

Supply Fees: $25 per bag of clay (covers glazes and firing)
$20 Tool Kit (includes bucket, large sponge for cleaning, wooden and metal rib, wire tool, needle tool, double end loop and large loop trimming tool, modeling tool, and sponge)

Thursdays, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Instructor: Gail Ritzer

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 9 – December 14 (5 classes) Reg. Code: THB-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

Full

Spring Cost (Session 1 and 3): $90 for Emerge members, $130 for non-members
Spring Cost (Session 2): $75 for Emerge members, $115 for non-members

Thursdays, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Instructor: Gail Ritzer

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 18 – February 22 (6 classes) Reg. Code: THB-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 7 – April 11 (5 classes) Reg. Code: THB-06
*Skipping the week of March 26

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 25 – May 30 (6 classes) Reg. Code: THB-07

register here


EVENING POTTERY CLASS OPTIONS

Handbuilding: To Function, or Not to Function?

This class will focus on introducing handbuilding techniques including slab building, coiling, and pinch pots. You can use these techniques to make something sculptural or something functional to take home. Some previous experience with clay is preferred but not necessary. If you have already taken the Intro to Pottery class and wish to learn about combining your wheel thrown items with some handbuilding techniques, then this class is also for you, however you should be skilled enough to throw on your own. [Min. 4, Max. 8]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.

Cost: $85 for Emerge members, $125 for non-members

Supply Fee: $25 per bag of clay - covers glazes and firing as well.
$20 Tool Kit (includes: bucket, large sponge for cleaning, wooden and metal rib, wire tool, needle tool, double end loop and large loop trimming tool, modeling tool, and sponge).

Tuesdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: Charlotte Fitz-Daniels

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 7 – December 12 (5 classes) Reg. Code: ACT-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

FULL

Spring Cost: $100 for Emerge members, $140 for non-members

Tuesdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: TBA

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 16 – February 20 (6 classes) Reg. Code: ACT-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 5 – April 9 (6 classes) Reg. Code: ACT-06

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 23 – May 28 (6 classes) Reg. Code: ACT-07

register here


Intro to Wheel Throwing: Mindful Making

This introductory class will be a little different. You will learn the fundamentals necessary for throwing including the techniques for centering, opening, pulling, trimming, and glazing, however you will do so while turning your attention to what is happening in your nervous system and intentionally using skills that can bring relief from stress. If you’ve never tried the potter’s wheel but have always wanted to, then this class is for you. If you’ve thrown on the wheel before but need a refresher or are new to Emerge, then this class is for you too! Class size is restricted so students can get the technical instruction required to establish a good foundation for continued learning. A lesson and demonstration will be given at the beginning of each class. This class is a prerequisite for continuing pottery classes. [Min. 4, Max. 7]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.

Cost: $95 for Emerge members, $135 for non-members

Supply Fee: $25 per bag of clay - covers glazes and firing as well.
$20 Tool Kit (includes: bucket, large sponge for cleaning, wooden and metal rib, wire tool, needle tool, double end loop and large loop trimming tool, modeling tool, and sponge).

Wednesdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: Kia Glosson

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 8 – December 13 (5 classes) Reg. Code: IWT-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

Full

Spring Cost: $110 for Emerge members, $150 for non-members

Wednesdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: Kia Glosson

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 17 – February 21 (6 classes) Reg. Code: IWT-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 6 – April 10 (6 classes) Reg. Code: IWT-06

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 24 – May 29 (6 classes) Reg. Code: IWT-07

register here


Continuing Potter: Beyond the Basics

Continuing students will hone their skills at centering, opening, and pulling during this class. Projects are designed to help improve the fundamentals necessary for crafting advanced cylinders and bowls. Advanced skills such as increasing scale, pulling spouts, and attaching handles will be addressed to challenge potters who have more wheel experience. Each project will include glazing and surface decoration discussions. This class is project driven and will allow students to take home several functional pieces! Intro to Wheel Throwing is a prerequisite to this class. [Min. 4, Max. 8]
Ages 16 and up with special permission.

Cost: $85 for Emerge members, $125 for non-members

Supply Fee: $25 per bag of clay - covers glazes and firing as well.
$20 Tool Kit (includes: bucket, large sponge for cleaning, wooden and metal rib, wire tool, needle tool, double end loop and large loop trimming tool, modeling tool, and sponge).

Thursdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: Erika Gibson

Fall 2023: Session 2: November 9 – December 14 (5 classes) Reg. Code: CPW-04
*Skipping the week of Thanksgiving

full

Spring Cost: $100 for Emerge members, $140 for non-members

Thursdays, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Instructor: Erika Gibson

Spring 2024: Session 1: January 18 – February 22 (6 classes) Reg. Code: CPW-05

register here

Spring 2024: Session 2: March 7 – April 11 (6 classes) Reg. Code: CPW-06

register here

Spring 2024: Session 3: April 25 – May 30 (6 classes) Reg. Code: CPW-07

register here


POTTERY CLUBS

Membership to THE FIRING CIRCLE and MUDHOLE is open to all current and previously enrolled students taking classes through our pottery program. You also have to be approved by the current Pottery Coordinator for admission. If you have not taken a pottery class through Emerge, you must first enroll in the Clay Studio Orientation Class prior to joining a Pottery Club. Those who have not previously taken a class with Emerge will be able to request a Clay Studio Orientation Class depending on availability and space for the program. 

Email Heather Suter at education@emergegallery.com for approval.



Mudhole

Mudhole membership entitles you to use our facilities any time during our open hours, whether you are currently enrolled in a class or not, the ability to purchase clay at class rates, use of glazes, and your work will be fired through our facility. 

1 month Membership Rates: $50 for members of Emerge (members only)

3 Month Membership Rates: $120 for members of Emerge, $160 for non-members


The Firing Circle

Members of the Firing Circle are paying only for the use of the kiln facilities. They are not eligible for use of the pottery facility including wheels, tables, equipment, etc. This is simply a club for those individuals who wish to create and work on their artwork off site, but need kiln usage. Clay and glazes are not included. Clay may be purchased at class rates. Clay not purchased at Emerge is not permitted. Dues run on a 6 month basis. Members pay for firing by drying room shelf load (shelves are approximately 12" x 36").

6 Month Membership Rates: $25 for Emerge members, $65 for non-members

Firing Rates: $15 per drying room shelf


Private Lessons in Pottery are also available

Click Here for more information


PHOTOGRAPHY

Private Lessons in Photography

Private lessons are available in photography! These hands-on lessons are taught in the one-on-one format with the instructor demonstrating, then letting the student try it. Class dates and times are scheduled by the student and instructor’s mutual agreement.  Call Paula Rountree at Emerge (252) 551-6947 or e-mail at paula@emergegallery.com for more information and to schedule.
Cost: $150 for Emerge members, $190 for non-members (4 one hour lessons)
Bring a friend: two people $100 each, three or more $75 each (Emerge members only).

Need only one lesson? Schedule by the hour - one person for $40 an hour, two or more people $35 an hour per person (Emerge members only).


TEXTILES

Private Lessons in Textiles

Private lessons are available in textiles! These hands-on lessons are taught in the one-on-one format with the instructor demonstrating, then letting the student try it. Class dates and times are scheduled by the student and instructor’s mutual agreement. Call Paula Rountree at Emerge (252) 551-6947 or e-mail at paula@emergegallery.com for more information and to schedule.
Cost: $150 for Emerge members, $190 for non-members (4 one hour lessons)
Bring a friend: two people $100 each, three or more $75 each (Emerge members only).

Need only one lesson? Schedule by the hour - one person for $40 an hour, two or more people $35 an hour per person (Emerge members only).