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The Studio Journal
Upcoming Workshops at Lenses & Brushes
September is moving quickly, but there is still so much happening at Lenses & Brushes before the month comes to a close!
From darkroom workshops and watercolor to after-school art, pet portraits, and a full day celebrating cyanotype, there are plenty of opportunities to come into the studio, learn something new, and make something with your hands.
Whether you are brand new to art and photography or looking to continue building your skills, you are welcome here.
Wednesday, September 16 | 6–8 PM | $30
Explore one of the simplest—and most magical—ways to create a photographic image.
Photograms are made without a camera. Objects are arranged directly onto light-sensitive photographic paper, exposed to light, and then developed by hand in the darkroom.
We’ll experiment with shape, transparency, layering, texture, and composition before heading into the darkroom to watch the images appear in the developer.
No photography or darkroom experience is necessary. This workshop is perfect for photographers, mixed-media artists, or anyone who simply wants to try something new.
Every Wednesday | 1–2 PM | $25
Wednesdays are for watercolor!
Each week, Wednesdays in Watercolor explores a different technique, subject, or theme. These one-hour sessions are designed to be approachable and relaxed, giving you an opportunity to experiment, practice, and build confidence with watercolor without committing to a longer course.
Come to one or make it part of your weekly creative routine.
2–5 PM | $150 per pair | Limited Seats
Looking for a creative afternoon together?
The Film & Darkroom Experience was designed specifically for pairs and makes a fun experience before heading out for dinner downtown.
Bring a partner, friend, family member, or fellow creative and spend the afternoon exploring film photography and the darkroom together.
Film asks us to slow down and be intentional. Then comes the best part—stepping into the darkroom and experiencing the process of creating a photographic print by hand.
Because this experience is intentionally small and hands-on, seats are limited.
Thursday, September 24 | 6–8 PM
Have you ever wondered what actually happens to your roll of color film after you drop it off for development?
In The First Reveal, we’ll explore the C-41 color film development process, including chemistry, temperature control, timing, film handling, and development.
There is something incredibly exciting about pulling freshly developed film from the reel and holding your negatives up to the light for the first time.
This workshop is a great next step for photographers who are already shooting film and want to become more involved in the process.
Friday, September 25 | 6–8 PM
One of our favorite Gather & Paint themes is back: Pet Portraits!
Before the workshop, email us a favorite photograph of your beloved pet. We’ll sketch your pet onto canvas before you arrive, so when class begins, your portrait will be ready to paint.
During the evening, you’ll be guided through color mixing, layering, and bringing your pet’s personality to life on canvas.
No painting experience is necessary—just bring your love for your pet and be ready for a fun evening of painting.
Saturday, September 26 | 11 AM–4 PM
We’re celebrating World Cyanotype Day with an all-day cyanotype event at the studio!
Stop in anytime between 11 AM and 4 PM to see live demonstrations throughout the day and learn more about this beautiful historical photographic process, recognizable by its rich blue color.
You’ll also have an opportunity to participate in a free community cyanotype art project. Add your piece to a collaborative artwork created by members of our community.
Want to make something to take home? You’ll also be able to create your own cyanotype artwork for a small materials fee.
Come for a few minutes or stay awhile. This event is designed to be welcoming, interactive, and a fun way to experience alternative photography.
Our Inspire & Create Studio after-school art program is going strong!
Students join us Wednesday through Friday from 4–5:30 PM, with a new creative activity each day.
Projects explore a variety of art and photography processes, allowing young artists to experiment with materials, learn new techniques, and discover what they enjoy creating.
Rather than focusing on making everything look the same, Inspire & Create encourages students to develop their own ideas, make choices, and build confidence through art.
There’s Always Something Being Made Here
One of our favorite things about Lenses & Brushes is seeing so many different kinds of creativity happening under one roof.
On any given week, there might be watercolor drying on the tables, students experimenting with a new art process, film hanging to dry in the darkroom, prints appearing under the safelight, or someone painting a portrait of their favorite four-legged friend.
That is exactly what we want the studio to be: a place to learn, experiment, connect, and create.
And October is already shaping up to be another exciting month, including our October exhibition featuring Boise photographer Clark Mazzio, whose film photography documents historic places throughout Boise and the surrounding area.
His work will be on display throughout October, with an opening reception on October 1 from 5–7:30 PM.
Until then, we hope you’ll join us for something this September.
Try something new. Make something imperfect. Learn a process you’ve always been curious about.
Most importantly—come create with us.
Lenses & Brushes – Photography & Art Studio404 S. 8th Street, L100 & L105Boise, Idaho
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