Workshops
Discover what
creativity means
to you.
We want all students to find out what creativity is to them. Led by professional artists, writers, musicians, and educators, our FREE creative workshops for high school students encourage immersive learning and collaboration. Workshops are offered in virtual, hybrid, and in-person forms throughout the year. Class sizes range from 6 to 12 students.
Due to limited capacity, all students must apply the workshop. Students will be informed of their placement via email no later than weeks before the workshop start date. Let the creativity begin!
New Workshops coming soon!
EQ Workshop: Shaping Sound in the Studio
Dates: Saturday, March 14th, 2026 at The Bodecker Foundation
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 8
FREE | Ages 14-18
Join us for a hands-on EQ workshop led by Bodecker’s in-house audio engineer and studio manager, Tony Ozier. This session focuses on EQ (equalization), one of the most essential tools in music production, mixing, and sound design.
Working in our state-of-the-art analog and digital studio, students will learn how to shape tone, clarity, and balance across vocals, instruments, and full mixes through guided listening and practical studio exercises.
Tony's Bio
Tony Ozier is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, recording engineer, and music educator. He is passionate about bringing music production and studio engineering education to underserved communities and co-founded Beats | Lyrics | Leaders, which has brought workshops throughout the West Coast for over 10 years. He is the co-founder of the Portland Black Music Expo and the bandleader of the Doo Doo Funk All-Stars. Tony also served as musical director for the iconic band The Pharcyde. He holds a degree in Recording Arts from Full Sail University in Orlando, FL.
Speak Your Peace
Dates: Saturday, April 25th, 2026 at The Bodecker Foundation
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
FREE | Ages 14-18
This workshop invites students to explore the healing and performative power of spoken word poetry. Participants will get to learn about influential voices ranging from Gwendolyn Brooks to Brandon Leake, alongside contemporary poets like Free K and Jae Nichelle. After learning the basics, students will have the opportunity to write, share feedback, edit, and perform their own work. This workshop focuses on fostering collaboration and a sense of community while creating a supportive space for young poets to grow and express themselves.
Nicky's Bio
A Northwestern University journalism graduate, Nicky Nicholson-Klingerman’s work appeared in media outlets like Blavity, Black Girl Magic Magazine, and the Buckman Journal. She co-wrote and starred in the sold-out performance of The Little Mermaid’s Project, and her first solo-written play, Girl in the Leather, debuted at the Fertile Ground Festival. She also featured as a poet at Literary Arts’ Portland Book Festival, My People’s Poet, Queer Poetry Takeover, Incite, and the Portland Winter Poetry Festival. Currently a writing teacher for Literary Arts and an MFA creative writing graduate student at PSU, Nicky’s work focuses on life as a queer Black artist navigating unjust systems.
Figure Drawing Workshop
Dates: Saturday, May 30th, 2026 at The Bodecker Foundation
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
FREE | Ages 14-18
Join us for a hands-on figure drawing workshop led by Portland-based artist Yujin Oh. This session focuses on observational drawing from the figure, helping students strengthen their ability to see, interpret, and translate the human form through line, shape, proportion, and gesture.
Yujin's Bio
Yujin Oh is a painter and illustrator specializing in figurative artwork. Portland based but Los Angeles raised, her work mainly consists of portraits and figures painted in charcoal, watercolor, and oil paint. Her work attempts to explore the personal lived experiences of the models she depicts by capturing the expressive nature of the human body. In addition to her art career, she has a long held passion for educating art for a wide range of age groups and skill levels alike.
Screenwriting with Jack Perez and The Hollywood Theatre
Dates: Monday, July 6th through Friday, July 10th at The Bodecker Foundation
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
FREE | Ages 14-18
Jack will oversee an intensive workshop where students will write short screenplays in whatever genre they choose: horror, sci-fi, action, comedy, drama, etc. Emphasis will be placed on character development, plot structure, creating authentic dialogue and making it personal. Writing will be done individually and in groups. Lectures will also include a breakdown of classic screenplays and an examination of the films themselves.
Jack's Bio
Jack Perez is a 30-year veteran of the motion picture and television industry. A member of both the DGA and WGA, he’s written and directed 15 feature films; helmed numerous TV movies, pilots for television series, second unit action sequences, network specials, behind-the-scenes documentaries, video games, reality shows and premium web series with tens of millions of hits. Everything from the pilot to XENA: WARRIOR PRINCESS and TEMPTATION ISLAND to MEGA SHARK VS. GIANT OCTOPUS and WILD THINGS 2. Also notable are his award-winning independent features, LA CUCARACHA and THE BIG EMPTY; as well as his groundbreaking first-feature, AMERICA’S DEADLIEST HOME VIDEO, which virtually created the found-footage genre. His critically-acclaimed horror-comedy, SOME GUY WHO KILLS PEOPLE, Executive Produced by John Landis, played festivals and theaters world-wide.
Jack is also the creator of the popular YouTube Premium Channel, CINEFIX, which currently has over 3.7 million subscribers; and he wrote and directed that channel’s most popular dramatic series, FEAR FORCE FIVE, which to date has over 80 MILLION VIEWS.
Jack has also produced for television and film; written dozens of screenplays and teleplays; is the recipient of awards for both writing and directing, and has received the critical praise of Roger Ebert, Aint it Cool News, Twitch Film, Dread Central, Fangoria Magazine, the Guardian, the LA WEEKLY, the Austin Chronicle and the New York Times.
Jack is also a passionate film professor of over 15 years, having taught writing and directing at USC, the New York Film Academy, the Academy of Art University’s School of Motion Pictures & Television, (where he headed the Directing Track), CCC, and PCC (where he currently instructs).
He lives in Portland with his wife and four cats.
Sessions with Halfling Studios
Dates: Monday, July 20th through Friday, July 24th, 2026 at The Bodecker Foundation
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 8
FREE | Ages 14-18
Perfect for musicians and audioengineers who want to get hands-on experience in the studio, this workshop will foucs on song development and demo recording. Students will work both collaboratively and independently to create new work to add to their portfolios.
About Halfling Studios
Halfling Studio is an on-site, state-of-the-art, analog and digital recording facility managed the BODECKER FOUNDATION. Artists including Portugal. The Man, Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks, Kim Gordon, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Patterson Hood (Drive by Truckers), The Decemberists, Sleater Kinney, Blitzen Trapper, Thomas Lauderdale of Pink Martini, DAME D.O.L.L.A. have all recorded at Halfling Studio.
Portrait Drawing with Kyra Watkins
Dates: Monday, August 3rd – Friday August 7th, 2026 at The Bodecker Foundation
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
FREE | Ages 14-18
Explore the art of portrait drawing in a weeklong workshop with artist Kyra Watkins! Learn the techniques behind capturing the essence of a person through portraiture and develop your drawing skills under the guidance of a professional artist. Whether you’re new to drawing or looking to refine your abilities, this workshop is a great way to take your creativity to the next level!
Kyra's Bio
Kyra Watkins is a Portland-based artist and muralist known for her work that combines portraiture with deep emotional narratives. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Watkins has gained recognition for her community-centered art, often using portraiture to tell powerful stories. She has been involved in various public art projects. Her mural work often emphasizes connection, family, and remembrance, with a focus on human stories. Watkins also mentors youth in mural art and has collaborated with various community organizations.
Printmaking with Mullowney Studios
Dates: Monday, August 3rd through Friday, August 7th at Mullowney Studios
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 8
FREE | Ages 14-18
Over the course of five consecutive days students will have the opportunity to work with Mullowney Printing master printers and assistants on self directed projects exploring traditional printmaking methods of relief, intaglio and letterpress printing, The workshop will explore the techniques of copper plate intaglio etching, a process employed by artists since the 15th century, known for its beautiful line quality and rich tonal range, as well as traditional relief printing processes of woodcut and linoleum cut. Also students will also be introduced to traditional letterpress printing with relief blocks and moveable type to create broadsides and posters.
About Mullowney Studios
Mullowney Studios is Portland’s premier fine art print studio: creating a hub of innovation, collaboration and education in celebration of our community. They publish traditional print media: etching, relief, photogravure, direct gravure, screen printing, and letterpress editions by leading contemporary artists. Mullowney Printing offers community workshops, internships, residency programs, contract printing and public exhibitions.
Two-Day Printmaking Workshop with Mullowney Printing
Dates: Saturday, November 8th, 2025 at The Bodecker Foundation
Saturday, November 15th, 2025 at Mullowney Printing Studio
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm (both days)
Number of Spots: Approx. 8-12
Explore the world of fine art printmaking in this two-day workshop designed for teens ages 14–18. In partnership with Mullowney Printing, students will receive hands-on experience with traditional techniques including screen printing,
lithography, and letterpress. All materials will be provided, including drawing tools, screens, and printing supplies.
Portraiture with Kyra Watkins
Date: Apri 5th,2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
Explore the art of portrait drawing in a one-day workshop with artist Kyra Watkins! Join us on Saturday, April 5, from 10 AM to 3 PM for this free session, open to teens ages 14-18. Learn the techniques behind capturing the essence of a person through portraiture, and develop your drawing skills under the guidance of a professional artist. Whether you’re new to drawing or looking to refine your abilities, this workshop is a great way to take your creativity to the next level!
Vibrant Youth: Skateboard Deck Design with Sebo Walker
Date: May 24, 2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
In this workshop, we will be creating a custom one of a kind skateboard deck. Essentially your own pro model! Using whatever medium you choose, acrylic, paint pens, etc We will start by watching and learning the process of making skateboard decks, start to finish. From there, we will each create our own and at the end have a dynamic line up of one of a kind skateboards!
Portraiture 101 with Kyra Watkins
Date: June 23rd–June 26th, 2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
Explore the art of portrait drawing in a four-day workshop with artist Kyra Watkins! Join us from Monday, June 23, to Thursday, June 26, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM each day for this free session, open to teens ages 14-18. Learn the techniques behind capturing the essence of a person through portraiture and develop your drawing skills under the guidance of a professional artist. Whether you’re new to drawing or looking to refine your abilities, this workshop is a great way to take your creativity to the next level!
Figure Drawing 101 with Yujin Oh
Date: July 7th–July 10th,2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
Join us from July 7 – July 10, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM each day for an immersive figurative drawing workshop with artist Yujin Oh! This free, four-day experience is perfect for teens ages 14-18 who want to deepen their understanding of figure drawing.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, you’ll gain expert techniques and insights while developing your unique artistic style. Don’t miss this opportunity to bring your creative vision to life under the guidance of a professional artist!
Graphic Design with Orion Cortez
Date: July 14th–July 17th, 2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
Join us from July 14 – July 17, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM each day for an engaging workshop on graphic design principles, led by artist Orion Cortez.
Throughout this free, four-day experience, you’ll explore the fundamentals of graphic design, from brainstorming original concepts to applying essential design principles. Get hands-on with accessible design tools and learn how to transform your ideas into visual compositions ready for print or digital use.
Whether you’re an aspiring designer or simply looking for a new creative outlet, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to experiment, create, and refine your artistic skills!
Beats with Tony Ozier
Date: July 21st–July 24th,2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
Join us for a free, four-day workshop with acclaimed audio engineer, producer, and musician Tony Ozier! From July 14 – July 17, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM each day, youth ages 14-18 will dive into the world of beat-making and music production in a state-of-the-art digital and analog studio.
Learn the fundamentals of creating a beat from scratch, experiment with both digital and analog tools, and collaborate with fellow young artists to bring your creative vision to life. Whether you’re new to music production or looking to refine your skills, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to explore sound, rhythm, and creativity with a professional guiding the way!
Create Jam with Sk8Marie
Date: July 28th–July 31st, 2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
In this hands-on workshop, students will create their own, one of a kind, custom skateboard from start to finish. You’ll come up with ideas, learn design and painting techniques, and unleash your inner artist. You’ll be guided through the process, and learn from a local artist who has created pieces that live all over the world!
Songwriting and Demoing with Lizzy Ellison
Date: August 4th–August 7th,2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
Join musician, producer, and community leader Lizzy Ellison for a hands-on, 4-day songwriting and demoing workshop designed for aspiring artists ages 14-18. Limited to 8 participants, this immersive experience will guide students through the creative process—from developing song ideas to recording polished demos. Collaboration is at the heart of this workshop, encouraging young musicians to write, arrange, and refine their music together. Participants will have the unique opportunity to record in a state-of-the-art analog and digital studio, gaining real-world experience in professional music production. Whether you’re a vocalist, instrumentalist, or songwriter, this workshop will help you bring your musical ideas to life in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Zine Making with Zab Shavrick
Date: August 11th–August 14th,2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
What is a “zine” and how can we use it as a tool for storytelling and exploration? Students will spend four days looking through, making, and learning about the history of zines. With a large spread of art supplies, we’ll get into the making flow with creative warm up exercises, experiment and learn how to assemble different types of zines, and walk away with a handmade “tiny book” about ourselves. Students will be encouraged to continue their creative practice outside of the classroom with their new toolbox of zine knowledge.
Identity Through Narrative with RaShawn Lemery
Date: March 1st, 2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
Calling all aspiring writers! Join us for a free, one-day Creative Writing Workshop with RaShawn Lemery on Saturday, March 1, from 10 AM to 3 PM. Open to teens ages 14-18, this workshop is perfect for anyone curious about exploring their identity through personal storytelling. Whether you’re new to writing or looking to develop your voice, this hands-on session will help you unlock your creativity and express yourself through words!
Figurative Drawing with Yujin Oh
Date: February 1st, 2025
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 8-10
Discover the art of figurative drawing in a one-day workshop with artist Yujin Oh! Happening on Saturday, February 1, from 10 AM to 3 PM, this free workshop is perfect for teens ages 14-18 who want to explore the world of figure drawing. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your skills, you’ll learn techniques and insights from a professional artist while developing your own unique style. Don’t miss this chance to bring your artistic vision to life!
DIY Graphic Tee Design & Printing with Orion Cortez
Date: December 7th & 8th, 2024
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 12
In this course, you’ll explore the art of graphic t-shirt design from concept to creation. Led by Orion Cortez, you’ll dive into brainstorming techniques to generate original ideas, learn basic design principles, and get hands-on with creating your own graphics. Using accessible tools like design software and DTG (direct-to-garment) printing guide you through the process of transforming your vision into a wearable shirt. Whether you’re a budding designer or just looking to explore new creative outlets, this workshop is perfect for anyone interested in experimenting with graphic design and print.
DIY Graphic Tee Design & Printing with Orion Cortez
Date: December 7th & 8th
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 8-10
In this course, you’ll explore the art of graphic t-shirt design from concept to creation. Led by Orion Cortez, you’ll dive into brainstorming techniques to generate original ideas, learn basic design principles, and get hands-on with creating your own graphics. Using accessible tools like design software and DTG (direct-to-garment) printing guide you through the process of transforming your vision into a wearable shirt. Whether you’re a budding designer or just looking to explore new creative outlets, this workshop is perfect for anyone interested in experimenting with graphic design and print.
DIY Graphic Tee Design & Printing with Orion Cortez
Date: December 7th & 8th
Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Number of Spots: 8-10
In this course, you’ll explore the art of graphic t-shirt design from concept to creation. Led by Orion Cortez, you’ll dive into brainstorming techniques to generate original ideas, learn basic design principles, and get hands-on with creating your own graphics. Using accessible tools like design software and DTG (direct-to-garment) printing guide you through the process of transforming your vision into a wearable shirt. Whether you’re a budding designer or just looking to explore new creative outlets, this workshop is perfect for anyone interested in experimenting with graphic design and print.