Beginner adult art classes - Session 3 - Painting - Mondays
2026-02-23 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Franciscan Life Process Center – Lowell Campus, 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell, MI, 49331
Session 3 – Painting
Mondays 6-9 p.m. – Feb. 23-March 16
In this four-week course, students will bring together the skills learned in Sessions 1 and 2 to create a complete acrylic painting. Lessons will include composition, edges, mood and dramatic lighting, helping participants create depth and enhance their paintings. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of Session 3 is $160 per person.

Cooking Around the World – A Global Foodie Adventure
2026-02-24 19:00 - 21:00
Embark on a delicious journey across continents! Cooking Around the World is a hands-on cooking class where you’ll explore bold flavors, unique ingredients, and traditional techniques from a variety of global cuisines. From the rich, aromatic spices of India to the vibrant dishes of the Philippines, the bold and comforting tastes of Hispanic cooking, and the delicate artistry behind classic French pastries—each session brings a new culture and cuisine to your table.
This intimate class accommodates up to 8 participants and is priced at $75.00 per person. For questions, call 616.897.7842.
Classes are held on the 1st and 4th Tuesday of each month from 7–9 p.m. at our Lowell campus, located at 11650 Downes St. NE, Lowell.
Register online: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/aroundworld

Walking with Saint Francis Through Lent
2026-02-25 19:00 - 20:30
In this Lenten series, we will consider ten events in the life of Saint Francis of Assisi that were turning points, or “steps of conversion,” as he followed Christ more and more closely throughout his life. In addition, we will see how these steps can apply to our own lives and take time for prayer and reflection to consider how they can help us follow Christ more closely throughout Lent.
Come and learn more about the life of Saint Francis, and how his journey of conversion can inspire and deepen our own walk with Christ.
Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:30pm
February 25
March 4
March 11
March 18
March 25
Register here

Beginner adult art classes - Session 3 - Painting - Thursdays
2026-02-26 09:00 - 12:00
Session 3 – Painting
Thursdays 9 a.m.-noon – Feb. 26-March 19
In this four-week course, students will bring together the skills learned in Sessions 1 and 2 to create a complete acrylic painting. Lessons will include composition, edges, mood and dramatic lighting, helping participants create depth and enhance their paintings. Students are responsible for purchasing items on the supply list prior to the class. The cost of Session 3 is $160 per person.

Baking with the Sister Mary Paul
2026-02-28 09:00 - 12:00
Breads from the Franciscan Traditions
Step into the rich heritage of Franciscan baking! Breads from the Franciscan Traditions invites you to tie on your apron, fire up the oven, and learn the time‑honored art of homemade bread. In this hands-on class, you’ll discover techniques, tips, and secrets passed down through generations, all while creating delicious loaves rooted in history and hospitality.
Classes are held on the last Saturday of each month, from 9 a.m.–noon, at our Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. NE.
This breadmaking experience accommodates up to 10 participants and is $100 per person. For questions, please call 616.897.7842.
Instructors & Featured Breads

Sister Mary Paul Moller (2/28)
Pumpernickel & Herbed “Music” Bread
Sister Gabriella Pettirossi (3/28)
Focaccia & Breadsticks
Sister Carmina Rose Muscat (4/25)
Jalapeño Cheddar Rolls & Challah
Sister Christianna Hamman (5/30)
Flatbread & Multigrain Bread

Join us for a flavorful, fragrant morning of baking—where tradition rises, and every loaf tells a story.
Register online: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/Breads

The Heart of Prayer
2026-03-14 09:30 - 15:00
Join us for a day of reflection and renewal as we explore the depth and beauty of prayer in our relationship with God. Prayer is our way of coming to know God and to love Him. It is a simple opening of the mind and heart to God. How do I do this? That is the goal of this retreat.
Click here to register

M. Joy Lemon-Luminous Florals in Charcoal and Chalk
2026-03-31 09:00 - 2026-04-02 16:00
March 31-April 2, 9 AM – 4 PM

Through guided demonstrations and focused individual support you will learn how to prepare materials, develop a solid block-in drawing, transfer your composition, identify and mass in shadow shapes, and softly turn form with sensitive, textureless shading, all while building your sensitivity to proportion and values.

The cost of this workshop is $420.00

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: M. Joy Lemon-Luminous Florals in Charcoal and Chalk Tickets, Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite

Andy Evansen-A Valuable Approach to Watercolor
2026-04-07 09:00 - 2026-04-09 16:00
April 7-9, 2026
There seems to be a never-endinq quest to loosen up in watercolor and it’s probably the most common goal of students. As I tell my students, what you leave out of a painting is as important as what you put in. The cost of this workshop is $650.00.
To find out more about this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/andy-evansen-a-valuable-approach-to-watercolor-tickets-1450484350739?aff=oddtdtcreator

Diane Hamel-Beyond Words-An Icon Writing Workshop
2026-04-13 09:00 - 2026-04-17 16:00
April 13 – 17, 9 AM – 4 PM

Come and spend a week with Diane Hamel at the Franciscan Life Process Center in prayerful contemplation as she leads participants in painting an icon of St. Mary of Egypt. Beginner to Advanced accepted.

The cost of this workshop is $650.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/diane-hamel-beyond-words-an-icon-writing-workshop-tickets-1962610402546?aff=oddtdtcreator

Carole Wilson-WATERCOLOR COLLAGE WORKSHOP
2026-04-16 09:00 - 2026-04-17 16:00
April 16 & 17, 9 AM – 4 PM

The marriage of watercolor and collage creates a beautiful and “unique medium.” Watercolor’s fluidity and transparency provide the foundation for our painting … and then… we add the texture and vibrancy of Collage materials to enhance our painting.

The cost of this workshop is $285.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/carole-wilson-watercolor-collage-workshop-tickets-1360697616199?aff=oddtdtcreator

Margaret Kriegbaum-Finding the Abstract in Nature
2026-04-21 09:00 - 2026-04-22 16:00
April 21 & 22, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM

This class focuses on the simplification of form to create a beautiful and energetic abstract painting. We will draw inspiration from photo references on the first day, with the option to paint en plein air on the second day. The student will learn to find the “bones” or the structural foundation that holds the composition together even after layers of color are added. There will be a brief PowerPoint introduction, explaining exactly what we mean by “abstract” or “abstraction” and showing a few examples. This is a two day multilevel course.

The cost of this workshop is $285.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/judith-tummino-finding-the-abstract-in-nature-tickets-1977734158106?aff=oddtdtcreator

John Fleck-Large and Loose Landscapes with Charcoal
2026-05-18 09:00 - 2026-05-19 16:00
May 18 & 19, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM
Work large with charcoal in the landscape. This 2–Day workshop will allow you to work loose, large, and even painterly. Charcoal is among the most malleable of drawing media, letting you smear, soften, and blend, to render the beauty of the landscape on paper.
The cost of this workshop is $275.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/john-fleck-large-and-loose-landscapes-with-charcoal-tickets-1087146306869?aff=oddtdtcreator

Keiko Tanabe-Painting Impressions with Watercolor
2026-05-19 09:00 - 2026-05-21 16:00
May 19-21, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM
In this class, you will start seeing things differently and learn how to turn reality into a captivating, impressionistic image. The goal is to capture the essence of the subject that conveys a certain mood and atmosphere.
The cost of this workshop is $650.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/keiko-tanabe-painting-impressions-with-watercolor-tickets-1269143806289?aff=oddtdtcreator

Richard Jordan Plein Air-Developing Artistry
2026-05-27 09:00 - 2026-05-29 16:00
May 27-29, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM

The focus of this 3-Day workshop is on transforming the ordinary landscape into a work of art. There are dozens of ways to paint the same landscape, but it’s your ability to see creative possibilities which moves an ordinary scene into artistry.

The cost of this workshop is $425.

To find a complete listing of this workshop go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/richard-jordan-plein-air-developing-artistry-tickets-1907787426549?aff=oddtdtcreator

Eric Michaels-Pulling your Paintings Together in Watercolor
2026-05-28 09:00 - 2026-05-29 16:00
May 28 & 29, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM
We will explore the utilization of light and dark values, warm and cool colors, soft and hard edges, areas of detail and rest, and more. All of these create depth and realism, guide the viewer’s eye and enhance the visual impact.
The cost of this workshop is $285.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/eric-michaels-pulling-your-paintings-together-in-watercolor-tickets-1838184412059?aff=oddtdtcreator

Mary Jo Roys Drueke, IAPS/MC-From Skies to Rocks in Soft Pastels
2026-06-03 09:00 - 2026-06-04 16:00
June 3 & 4, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM

We will make use of both small thumbnails to set up an interesting design. A major emphasis will be placed on ever important values! You can expect to have two sketches at the end of the second and a more confident skill set to bring to your landscapes.

The cost of this workshop is $285.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: Mary Jo Roys Drueke, IAPS/MC-From Skies to Rocks in Soft Pastels Tickets, Wed, Jun 3, 2026 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite

Nancie King Mertz-Paint What Scares You!
2026-06-09 09:00 - 2026-06-11 16:00
June 9-11, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM
Be open to trying something that pushes your boundaries, rather than painting your usual subject matter. Nancie will guide you toward success! Bring your printed reference materials of scenes you’ve always wanted to paint but never quite knew how to approach artistically. This is a pastel workshop.
The cost of this workshop is $500.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nancie-king-mertz-paint-what-scares-you-tickets-1020863168217?aff=oddtdtcreator

Beggar's Bell Bash
2026-06-09 18:00 - 21:00
An evening of celebration and support for the Center’s programs awaits at our
Beggar’s Bell Bash 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9.

This special gathering will feature great food, beer and wine, music, a silent auction and meaningful conversation – all in support of the Center’s programs, which assist in the education, healthy development and cultural enrichment of our West Michigan community.

Guests can also tour our recently renovated building at the beautiful, rural Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. and experience firsthand the spaces where our mission comes to life.

Learn more and purchase tickets by visiting LifeProcessCenter.org/beggars-bell-bash

Barbara Schilling-Be Bold!
2026-06-30 09:00 - 2026-07-01 16:00
June 30 – July 1, 9 AM – 4 PM

Creating a successful painting is about more than just utilizing skills. A painting should be more than just a representation of a subject. No matter how skillfully executed, without passion and energy your work will not hold a viewers attention. Find out how.

The cost of this workshop is $285.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/barbara-schilling-be-bold-tickets-1975627330528?aff=oddtdtcreator

Ralph Annunziata-' w i t h I N & w i t h O UT'
2026-06-30 09:00 - 2026-07-02 16:00
June 30-July 2, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM

we’ll work solo canvases as well as indulge a ‘series’ explorations through abstractExpression & representational components to enhance our own clarity from withIN silent walking meditation or just quietly sit with ‘softFocus’ eyes to feel, to listen to BE_PRESENT withOUT these BEautiful franciscanCenter grounds –

The cost of this workshop is $500.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: Ralph Annunziata-‘ w i t h I N & w i t h O UT’ Tickets, Tue, Jun 30, 2026 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite

Kathleen Conover-PAINTING FROM THE RIGHT (AND LEFT) SIDE OF THE BRAIN
2026-07-06 09:00 - 2026-07-08 16:00
July 6-8, 9 AM – 4 PM
The best paintings aren’t always planned, and they aren’t totally intuitive. They are a marriage of intent, basic design skills, and freely expressing our personal interpretation of the world.
The cost of this workshop is $600.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kathleen-conover-painting-from-the-right-and-left-side-of-the-brain-tickets-1070948960169?aff=oddtdtcreator

Mass
2026-07-11 10:00 - 11:00
JULY 11: Mass 10am
Francis hears the sermon from Matthew 10:7, 9-11 and the call to radical Poverty

The Wild West
2026-07-13 09:00 - 15:00
July 13-17, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Explore the challenges of the untamed West of the late 1800s! Gain skills by working with animals, learning archery, foraging for food, and making root beer, as well as creating art, music and playing games popular in the pioneer days!
• $250 per child
• $600 per child/ if signed up for all 3 weeks
• $125 per child/& week for each additional child(ren)
Register here

Jon Redmond-Finding Perfect Balance
2026-07-14 09:00 - 2026-07-16 16:00
July 14-16, 9 AM – 4 PM

This workshop will help you gain the ability to push your paintings in opposing directions, introducing chaos and control into the act of painting. Loss of control is often necessary to push one’s paintings out of their comfort zone, focused critical correction can pull it all together.

The cost of this workshop is $590.

To find a complete listing of this workshop go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jon-redmond-finding-perfect-balance-tickets-1677069001529?aff=oddtdtcreator

Kyle Ma-Landscape Painting Workshop
2026-07-28 09:00 - 2026-07-31 16:00
July 28-31, 9 AM – 4 PM

Students will also learn how to apply the fundamentals of painting, such as drawing, values, color, and edges to painting a landscape. Having solid fundamentals will give the students confidence in being able to paint whatever scene they are presented with well.

The cost of this workshop is $650.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kyle-ma-landscape-painting-workshop-tickets-1681092024499?aff=oddtdtcreator

Mary Qian-Costumed Figure Painting
2026-08-11 09:00 - 2026-08-13 16:00
August 11-13, 9 AM – 4 PM
The goal of the class is to teach using value, color and edge as 3 essential tools to create naturalistic human portraits. The class will use one setup for the entire workshop. To focus on value, colors and edge each 3 days, to create realistic portraits and figures.
The cost of this workshop is $550.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: Mary Qian-Costumed Figure Painting Tickets, Tue, Aug 11, 2026 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite

David R. Smith-Fresh and Exciting Watercolors
2026-08-11 09:00 - 2026-08-13 16:00
August 11-13, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM

This workshop will save you countless hours of trial & error by demonstrating approaches in an easily understood manner that will open new doors of discovery and creativity. Participants will be provided reference photos, drawing guides, and step-by-step instruction through all stages of the painting process.

The price of this workshop is $595.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/david-r-smith-fresh-and-exciting-watercolors-tickets-1007641401557?aff=oddtdtcreator

Terry Miura-Oh My Gouache! 7 Things You Must Do To Tame The BEAST!
2026-08-25 09:00 - 2026-08-27 16:00
August 25-27, 2026, 9 AM – 4 PM

In this workshop, I will break down the unique quirks and characteristics of the medium and explain why it’s so difficult to control. And then, I will show you exactly what you need to do overcome these annoying obstacles so that we can tame the beast.

The cost of this workshop is $625.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/terry-miura-oh-my-gouache-7-things-you-must-do-to-tame-the-beast-tickets-1692869150199?aff=oddtdtcreator
Respectfully,

Dan Young-Bringing Nature into the Studio
2026-08-25 09:30 - 2026-08-27 16:00
August 25-27, 2026
The emphasis of the class will focus on choosing good reference material and building your confidence to make changes to those choices to make stronger painting. I will give you the tools to make paintings and not just copies of your photographs.
The cost of this workshop is $625.
To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dan-young-bringing-nature-into-the-studio-tickets-1338541576889?aff=oddtdtcreator

Barbara Schilling-Creating Depth in Your Landscape Paintings
2026-09-09 09:00 - 2026-09-10 16:00
September 9 & 10, 9 AM – 4 PM

This is a hands-on workshop designed to help artists build convincing, atmospheric space in their work. Participants explore how color temperature, saturation, value, and contrast shift as forms recede, and learn why yellow and red fall away in the distance, leaving blue as the farthest visible hue.

The cost of this workshop is $285.

To find a complete listing of this workshop please go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/barbara-schilling-creating-depth-in-your-landscape-paintings-tickets-1975843599394?aff=oddtdtcreator
