Ava McDonnell
This October, Alliance for the Arts invites you to celebrate creativity, community, and connection with an exciting lineup of new classes and events. Located in Fort Myers, this nonprofit community is a hub for visual and performing arts, dedicated to transforming lives and enriching the community while celebrating 50 years.
Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time, refining your craft, or simply looking for fresh ways to engage with the arts, our fall programs offer something for everyone. From hands-on workshops and inspiring exhibitions to family-friendly activities and special gatherings, this month is full of opportunities to learn, create, and explore.
October Gallery
I Ink, Therefore, I Am
On Display: October 3-November 1
Opening Reception: October 3, 5:00-7:00 pm
Gallery Hours: Tues-Fri: 9:00 a.m-7:00 p.m., Sat.: 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Ink, as a medium, has always extended beyond the confines of fine art. From penmanship, to illustration, to tattoos, ink is a medium that continuously evolves to tell new stories as well as reinforce those from the past. In ink, there’s history, rebellion, and evolution.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/october-galleries/
Member Gallery Exhibition: In Black & White
On Display: October 3-November 1
Opening Reception: October 3, 5:00-7:00 pm
Time: Gallery Hours: Tues-Fri.: 9:00 a.m-7:00 p.m., Sat.: 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: As a support beam for our Main Gallery exhibition, “In Black & White” was an open invitation for artist members to submit artworks that highlight the qualities between black and white in any medium. With only one visual requirement for the artists to fulfill, the works on display showcase a wide variety of techniques, mentalities, and subjects.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/october-galleries/
Events
Re-imagined & Revealed: An Open House Celebration
Price: Free to Attend
Date: Saturday, October 11
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Step inside and explore all the creativity, community, and connection the Alliance has to offer. Discover vibrant art exhibition spaces, tour classrooms and performance spaces, meet the talented team and learn about: upcoming classes, theatre productions, facility rentals and special events. Whether someone is curious about trying something new or looking to reconnect with the arts, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the Alliance and discover all that it has to offer.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/re-imagined-revealed-an-open-house-celebration/
FREE Family ArtLab
Price: Free to Attend
Date: Saturday, October 18
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Make creativity part of your family routine the 3rd Saturday of each month during Family ArtLab! Drop in for free, hands-on family fun from 10 a.m. to noon. Explore something new every month like art making, gallery activities, games and more – all inspired by artworks on view in the gallery, famous artists, national holidays and artistic traditions around the world.
All ages and abilities are encouraged to participate.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/family-artlab-at-the-alliance/
Double Feature Rocky Horror Picture Show Outdoor Movie Event & Haunted House Preview
General Admission: $25/Members, $30/Non-members
VIP: $50/Members, $55/Non–members
Date: Saturday, October 18
Time: 5:00-10:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: The Alliance for the Arts celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a Halloween double feature: the Rocky Horror Picture Show Outdoor Movie Event and the premiere of Curtain Call Carnage, a brand-new haunted maze where theatre meets terror. The maze continues nightly through November 1 as part of the inaugural 13 Nights of Stage Fright.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/double-feature-picture-show-rocky-horror-curtain-call-carnage-preview/
13 Nights of Stage Fright: Curtain Call Carnage
Price: Varies
Date: Saturday, October 18- Saturday, November 1
Time: Varies
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: The Alliance for the Arts transforms its campus into a Halloween destination with 13 Nights of Stage Fright, an immersive mix of haunted attractions, live shows, markets, and community events. At the center is Curtain Call Carnage, a full-scale haunted house featuring local artists and performers. Beyond the scares, 13 Nights fosters connection, with themed sideshows, fundraisers, and art markets that bring together businesses, nonprofits, and creatives in a vibrant community celebration.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/13-nights/
Less Scare More Care
Price: Free to Attend
Date: October 23
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Join us for a night of Halloween fun that’s all treats and no tricks! Less Scare, More Care is a family-friendly celebration that brings our community together for a safe, playful, and festive evening. Whether you’re coming in costume or just looking to enjoy the autumn spirit, there’s something for everyone.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/13-nights/
Spooky Stories Night Market
Price: Free to Attend
Date: Wednesday, October 29
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Night Market returns with a special spooky twist. The event will feature a selection of local vendors, food trucks, and beverages, along with a variety of haunted surprises.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/night-market/2025-10-29/ /
Monster Mash Halloween Party & Haunted House
Price:Halloween Party Free to Attend/Haunted House Paid Admission
Date: October 31
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Jam to the beat as the Monster Mash Dance Party transforms the night into a spooky celebration of art, music, and timeless Halloween tradition. Bring your broomstick, bring your boogie, and bring the whole family for a night of creepy creativity and classic fun.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/13-nights/
Classes
Balance and Wellness Through Art: Decoupage Coasters or a Vase
Price: $35/Members, $45/Non-members
Date: Thursday, October 2
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Positive energy flows through the process of decoupaging either fall pressed flower coasters or a stunning vase. The addition of unique color schemes can enhance one’s desires and determination to flow with the rhythm of life. Each creation will serve as a symbol representing the magnitude of dreams.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/balance-and-wellness-through-art-manifesting-more-in-life/
The Art of Thai Chicken Dumpling Making
Price: $45/members, $55/non-members
Date: Saturday, October 4
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Designed for anyone with a passion for bold flavors, this class is perfect for seasoned cooks and those new to the kitchen. All ingredients are provided, from fragrant herbs to tender chicken and traditional wrappers. Attendees will learn to craft a delicious batch of dumplings, with a generous portion available to take home and share.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/thai-chicken-dumpling-workshop-make-taste-take-home/
Life Drawing Lounge (Ages 18+)
Price: $20
Date: Sundays, October 5-December 21
Time: 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Life Drawing Lounge is a casual, non instructed life drawing session featuring one long pose with a nude model. This session is great for artists of all levels with some basic life drawing knowledge. The environment is relaxed with music and light conversation.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/life-drawing-lounge-ages-18-2/2025-10-05/
An Introduction to Watercolor with Cheryl Fausel
Price: $120/members, $145/non-members
Date: Wednesday, October 8
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Discover the joy and fluid beauty of watercolor in this inspiring one-day workshop led by acclaimed artist Cheryl Fausel. Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or returning to painting after a break, this class is the perfect place to begin your watercolor journey.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/an-introduction-to-watercolor-with-cheryl-fausel-beginner-intermediate-level/
Bonsai Series
Price: $150/members: $180/non-members
Date: Three Fridays, October 10, November 14 & December 12
Time: 6:00-8:30 pm
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: The timeless art of bonsai is explored in this beginner-friendly series, which guides participants from the fundamentals to advanced shaping techniques. The class covers essential care practices, various styling options, and bonsai wiring—a key method for guiding growth and creating graceful, balanced forms.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/bonsai-series/2025-10-10/
SoulCollage® Workshop
Price: $50/members, $60/non-members
Date: Saturday, October 11
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Find clarity and insight through the creation and consultation of SoulCollage® cards. A full deck is meant to mirror balance and wholeness. This workshop is for those who are new to SoulCollage® as well as those who have attended an introduction to SoulCollage® workshop and would like to go deeper into the SoulCollage® process and practice.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/soulcollage-workshop-playing-with-a-full-deck-18/
Fine Art Acrylics with Marilyn
Price: $135/members, $165/non-members
Date: Wednesday, October 15
Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Join artist Marilyn Hedlund for a supportive, critique-based class that inspires artists of all levels. Each session features group critiques, lively discussions, and one-on-one guidance, along with creative assignments and lecture/demos on key topics like composition, color, and form. More than just a class, it’s a welcoming community where ideas, feedback, and artistic growth thrive.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/fine-art-acrylics-with-marilyn-all-levels-18/2025-10-15/
Make Your Own Polymer Clay Monsters with Terry Lynn
Price: $45/Members, $55/Non-members
Date: Thursday, October 16
Time: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: In this fun Halloween-inspired workshop, students will sculpt your own quirky, spooky, or silly monster out of colorful polymer clay while learning basic sculpture techniques. Once finished, your creation will be baked and ready to take home the same day! Perfect for all ages, this lighthearted class is all about creativity, laughter, and a little monster magic.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/make-your-own-polymer-clay-monsters-with-terry-lynn-all-levels/
Painting Pottery with Jungle House Pottery: Creative Flow Mug
Price: $40/members, $50/non-members
Date: Thursday, October 16
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Local ceramic artist Erica Klopf, of Jungle House Pottery, hosts a fun and creative pottery-painting experience. Participants will choose a handmade piece crafted by Erica and bring it to life with their own painted design. Guidance is provided on techniques to make each piece truly one-of-a-kind. After the class, the pottery is professionally glazed and fired, ready for pickup in about two weeks.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/painting-pottery-with-jungle-house-pottery-creative-flow-mug/
Get a Handel on Baroque Dance
Price: $30/members, $36/non-members
Date: Thursday, October 16
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Experience the joy of Baroque music in motion and learn a new historical dance each month, from minuets to gavottes, guided by expert instructor Dr. April Lynn James,“The PhDiva,” a classically trained soprano with a Harvard PhD. With her background in early music and dance, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to help participants connect with Handel, Bach, Vivaldi, and more through movement, joy, and vitality.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/get-a-handel-on-baroque-dance/
Fridays with Francesco
Price: $100/members, $120/non-members
Date: Friday, October 17
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: This art class is designed for all experience levels to help awaken the inner artist. With 15 years of teaching experience, instructor Francesco provides personalized guidance in both basic and advanced techniques. Students can work on their own projects or from provided references. In a supportive environment, attendees will learn effective techniques, share ideas, and connect with fellow art lovers as they grow their skills and creativity.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/fridays-with-francesco-all-levels-2/
Sip and Create: Fill the Rim with Thankfulness
Price: $35/members, $45/non-members
Date: Friday, October 17
Time: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Sip, socialize, and get creative at the monthly Sip and Create workshop. Each session features a new project, and this month, participants will paint their own wine glasses to take home. With two complimentary glasses of wine (21+) and all supplies provided, guests can simply bring their friends and creativity for an evening of art, laughter, and inspiration.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/sip-and-create-fill-the-rim-with-thankfulness/
Photography Workshop: Portrait Fundamentals
Price: $100/members, $120/non-members
Date: Saturday, October 18
Time: 9:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Master natural light portrait photography using any camera, from DSLR to smartphone. This hands-on workshop teaches practical techniques you can use immediately to create compelling portraits anywhere.
Website:www.artinlee.org/event/photography-workshop-portrait-fundamentals-light-posing-and-composition/
Fluid Art: Intro to Resin with Tammy DeCaro
Price: $175/members, $210/non-members
Date: Saturday, October 25
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Learn the essentials of resin art with artist Tammy DeCaro in this hands-on 6-hour workshop. You’ll explore different types of resin, experiment with dyes, pigments, and mixed media, and practice techniques like clear coating, using molds, and combining resin with glass.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/fluid-art-intro-to-resin-with-tammy-decaro/
Acrylic Painting with Pat Smelkoff: Giant Sunflower
Price: $100/members, $120/non-members,
Date: Sunday, October 26
Time: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Bring a burst of color to your canvas with Pat Smelkoff’s step-by-step acrylic painting class! Perfect for beginners and intermediate painters alike, this joyful workshop will guide you in creating a vibrant 16×20 Giant Sunflower while learning techniques for layering, depth, and dimension. With Pat’s encouraging instruction, students will leave with a stunning masterpiece.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/acrylic-painting-with-pat-smelkoff-giant-sunflower/
Painting with Terry Lynn
Price: $155/members, $195/non-members
Date: Six Tuesdays, October 28-December 2
Time: Morning: 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Afternoon: 1:00– 4:00 p.m., Evening: 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Join beloved instructor and painter, Terry Lynn Spry, for her weekly fine art painting classes designed for the novice to the professional. Students are encouraged to work at their own level, and with their subject and medium of choice. In this class, expect to learn more about the spectrum of painting from realism to abstract, as well as, studies in portraiture, color control, compositions, value study and drawing.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/painting-with-terry-lynn-all-levels/2025-10-28/
Intro to 3D Modeling and Animation with Blendr
Price: $175/Members, $210/Non-members
Date: Four Tuesdays, October 28-November 18
Time: 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: An exciting exploration of 3D art and animation is offered in this beginner-friendly Blender course. Over a four-week period, the course teaches essential skills in modeling, sculpting, texturing, lighting, animating, and rendering. Ideal for artists, students, and anyone curious about digital design, this hands-on class leaves attendees with finished 3D projects and portfolio-ready renders, along with the foundational skills for future creative endeavors.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/intro-to-3d-modeling-and-animation-with-blendr-ages-16/2025-10-28/
Juggling for Stress Relief “Playshop”
Price: $30/Members, $36/Non-members
Date: Wednesday, October 29
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Step away from screens and get moving with a fun, stress-relieving juggling class! Led by Dr. April Lynn James,“The PhDiva,” a classically trained soprano with a Harvard PhD, students will learn to juggle up to three objects while improving flexibility, focus, and body-mind coordination. This playful, accessible skill is perfect for taking breaks from daily routines and reconnecting with your joy and vitality.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/juggling-for-stress-relief-playshop-2/
For information, check out their website.
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