MIDDLETOWN, Calif. – Middletown Art Center is pleased to inform the public about two new classes that will begin the first week of February.

“Drawing People and Animals” with Emma Wakefield is geared to young people ages 7 to 17, and “Photography: Composition and Light” with Nicholas Hay is designed for adults and teens.

No previous experience is necessary for either class.

Preregistration is required at http://www.middletownartcenter.org/classes or at the art center or by mail. Additional details can be found below.

“Drawing People and Animals” takes place Wednesdays beginning Feb. 5 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

There will be four sessions during the month of February. The fee is $80 for four classes or $25 drop-in. Drawing materials will be supplied. A sturdy 8.5 x 11 or 9 x 12 sketchbook is recommended but not required.

Youth ages 7 to 17 will enjoy learning from Emma Wakefield, a young published author and illustrator currently working on her second book.

Wakefield is an accomplished college art student who plans to continue the pursuit of her passion for illustration at San Francisco State University. She enjoys sharing her love of art with others and is excited to be an instructor at the Middletown Art Center.

“This is an amazing opportunity,” she said. “I have always wanted to be an art teacher ever since I was a child.”

Wakefield hopes to inspire her students and help them find their own passion for art.

“We are thrilled to support Emma’s professional development and work experience with part-time employment in her field of choice,” said MAC’s Programs Director Lisa Kaplan.

“Photography: Composition and Light” with Nicholas Hay begins Feb. 7, 4 to 6 p.m.

The class will take place every other Friday through March 20 (Feb. 7 and 21; March 6 and 20).

The cost is $100 for four two-hour sessions. Participants should bring a cell phone camera or a reflex camera. The class will have both hands-on and lecture components.

Hay’s experience with visual imagery spans painting, printmaking photography and cinematography. He is currently making art locally and has worked in the film industry in New York, Hollywood and internationally.

“Effective photography is concerned not only with an interesting subject but with the essential elements of light and composition,” said Hay. “In this class, we’ll draw upon the history of photography, and painting to illuminate the essential qualities that make an image compelling.”

The MAC is a vibrant cultural hub and non-profit dedicated to weaving the arts into the fabric of life in Lake County. Consider helping sustain local arts and culture, and MAC’s efforts by becoming a member or by subscribing to donate monthly and benefit from VIP discounts. Donations to the MAC are tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.

Visit www.middletownartcenter.org to learn more about exhibitions, classes, events and ways to volunteer or contribute.

MAC is located at 21456 Highway 175 at the junction of Highway 29 in the heart of Middletown.

Gallery hours are Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; or by appointment by calling 707-809-8118. The mailing address is P.O. Box 1616 Middletown, CA 95461, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .