Community Arts Program

three panel image far left detail acrylic painting middle panel close up of hands throwing pot far right water color palette
four students seated at long wooden tables with small desk lamps working on projects during kintsugi ceramic repair class
east campus community arts student painting with watercolor birds eye view
close up of student's hands in blue nitrile gloves working on small porcelain bowl with gold repair lines kintsugi ceramic repair class
east campus community arts student painting canvas with acrylics

Discover new talents, refine your skills, and unlock your creativity through Catlin Gabel’s Community Arts Program—offering art classes open to all adults in the Portland area.

Located on the campus of the former Oregon College of Arts and Craft (OCAC), Catlin Gabel’s Community Arts Program continues the legacy of the college, providing a range of adult art classes that include painting, ceramics, print-making, and drawing.

Offerings are open to beginners and experienced artists. Come learn new techniques with our talented teachers, or hone your craft in our peaceful studios. No affiliation to Catlin Gabel School is required to register.

Winter 2026: Jan 5-March 6

PRINTMAKING

PAINTING

CERAMICS

If you have questions about the program, please contact Barbara Rawls, Community Arts Programs Coordinator.

Cancellation Policy

  • If registration is cancelled 20 or more days before the class the price of registration minus a $75 cancellation fee will be refunded .
  • If registration is cancelled 14-19 days before the class half the price of registration will be refunded.
  • If registration is cancelled 13 or less days before the class there are no refunds given. Thank you for your understanding.

Term Schedule

Class offerings vary by term. Previous courses have included pottery, drawing, watercolor, acrylics, mixed media, and more.

2025

  • Fall Term:: September 23 to November 21

2026

  • Winter Term: January 5 to March 6
  • Spring Term: March 30 to May 29
  • Summer Term: June 22 to August 21
  • Fall Term: September 21 to November 20

Catlin Gabel East Campus

8245 SW Barnes Rd, Portland, OR 97225

See Campus Map (PDF)

I had taken many classes and workshops at OCAC after I completed my art degree at PSU. These gave me a way to dive deeper into some areas I wanted to explore. The teachers have always been extremely knowledgeable and prepared. Very excited to see this tradition continuing through Catlin Gabel.community arts student