Upcoming Events and Classes

colorful faces of and figure heads only of manga style sketches

Manga Sketchbook

This course continues with manga-style sketchbook drawing. Manga are Japanese-style comics and graphic novels with a distinct aesthetic rooted in 19th-century We will also add a color wheel demonstration to help bring characters to life.  prior drawing experience is required.

Sat. March 14, 2026
1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Larson Gallery
1606 W Nob Hill Blvd
Yakima, WA 98902

Artist Instructor:
Mark Northcott with Guest Jack Cannon

$10 Payable at the Door

Free for Members

Shredded is a man with mask and sword and cap. He is a drawing in black and white.

Manga Sketchbook

This course introduces students to manga-style sketchbook drawing. Manga are Japanese-style comics and graphic novels with a distinct aesthetic rooted in 19th-century Japanese art traditions, often characterized by expressive linework and dramatic, large-eyed character designs. Through regular sketchbook practice, students will explore character creation, facial expression, movement, and visual storytelling while developing their own creative voice. Emphasis is placed on experimentation, consistency, and confidence-building. No prior drawing experience is required.

Sat. Feb. 14, 2026
1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Larson Gallery
1606 W Nob Hill Blvd
Yakima, WA 98902

Artist Instructor: Mark Northcott

$10 Payable at the Door

Free for Members

Artwork by Geri Ham, watercolor of the Klickitat River Lumuma Creek, yellow and green hills with rivers below.

Watercolor Painting

Step into the colorful world of watercolor, where happy accidents turn into masterpieces and every brushstroke tells a story! In Watercolor Wonderland, you’ll explore the magic of color mixing, layering, and texture while learning to let go of perfection and embrace creative flow. Through playful exercises, vibrant projects, and plenty of splashes (literally), you’ll discover how to paint everything from dreamy landscapes to expressive abstracts. We’ll experiment with salt, splatter, and surprise techniques that make watercolor one of the most joyful mediums.

Sat. January 17, 2026
1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Location: 1606 W Nob Hill Blvd
Yakima, WA 98902

Artist Instructor: Geri Ham

$10 Payable at the door 

a girl working on a sketchbook with an art instructor drawaing at a talbe.

Figure Drawing Manga

In this engaging and inspiring figure drawing class, young artists will explore the human form as a foundation for creative expression and movement. Through hands-on exercises and guided demonstrations, young artists will learn to capture motion, proportion, and emotion while developing their own artistic style. Blending classical techniques with imaginative exploration, this course encourages students to see beyond observation, transforming simple sketches into dynamic works of art that tell a story.

December 17, 2025: 
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Harmon Center
101 N 65th Ave, Yakima, WA 98908

Artist Instructor: Chris Caprile, Lead Artist

FREE Informational Session

Meet Our Instructors

Our talented team of instructors and artists are dedicated to nurturing the creative potential of every student at Yakima Arts Academy. With diverse backgrounds and a shared passion for art education, they guide young artists on their artistic journeys.

Chris Chapile

Chris Chapile

Lead Art Instructor

Mark R Northcott

Mark R Northcott

Sketchbook Specialist

Geri Ham

Geri Ham

Watercolor Painting

Artist Wanted

Artist Wanted

Sculpture

What Our Students and Parents Say

Women and man engaged in a lively art class, learning with brushes and canvas.

“We have been looking for something different, and the idea of this program is so exciting becuae it is affordable, it is not competative, and builds on our son’s creative talent!”

Young woman wearing hat painting a mural on an urban street wall during the day.

“I played sports, but I have always been more interested in drawing and painting, and just having fun and making things that look cool. I just love art.”

a girl working on a sketchbook with an art instructor drawaing at a talbe.

“Chris and Mark are amazing, they both are exceptionally talented and work so well with kids. I am so glad they are part of this program. Can’t wait to see where we go. Yakima needs this.”

Support Our Mission

Yakima Arts Academy is a designated 501(c)(3) non-prfoit.
Your contributions are tax deductable.
Your generous donations help Yakima Arts Academy provide accessible art education to young people in our community. Every contribution makes a difference in empowering the next generation of artists and leaders.

Our goal

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Join Our Creative Community

Become a part of the vibrant Yakima Arts Academy family! Register now for our upcoming events and courses to unleash your creativity and connect with fellow young artists. Dive into an inspiring world of art education, social engagement, and community support. Don’t miss the chance to grow your artistic skills and make lasting friendships. Sign up today and start your journey with us!