Information for Students

In 1982 PAAM’s educational mission was furthered when the Museum School at PAAM was officially founded, with an onsite studio classroom. Modeled after the Art Students League of New York, the Museum School has provided students of all levels the opportunity to work with local, professional artists in a variety of settings and media—working en plein air and in the traditional, studio classroom environment.

Our Studios:

PAAM was renovated in 2003-05, creating greatly improved studios for the school which are naturally lit with skylights, ventilated, and handicapped accessible. The space includes a drawing studio, painting studio with moveable wall, and a non-toxic print studio featuring three printing presses.

Recognizing Greatness:

In 2009, the school was named to honor the late Lillian Orlowsky and William Freed, who were artists, teachers, and active members of PAAM and the Provincetown arts community for over 50 years.

Continued Change:

Over the past three decades, programming has evolved to year-round offerings, featuring four months of summer classes, as well as fall and spring workshops. Media covered includes Art History, Drawing, Film, Mixed Media, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture, and more.

All participants are expected to arrive on time and to cultivate an attitude of mutual respect towards others. PAAM is committed to providing all participants with meaningful and productive educational experiences. As a result, PAAM reserves the right to refuse admission to any workshop, or to deny further participation to anyone who may adversely affect the quality of the educational experience. Anyone denied access to the remainder of a session, at the sole discretion of PAAM, will not be granted a refund. No pets are allowed in our studios.

We are very excited to announce that we have new lockers available for student materials storage. The lockers are conveniently located in the school hallway. Lockers can be used to store water bottles, jackets, lunch, sunscreen, drawing pads, and more.

Locker Rental Policies

PAAM provides lockers for student storage space. We have four large (23.5×14) and four small (14×14) lockers available for Museum School students to reserve. Lockers are $10 per week (Monday-Friday) for the large lockers, and $5 per week for the small lockers. Lockers can be accessed during office hours: Monday-Friday, 9-5pm. Lockers are cleaned out by staff at 4pm on Friday afternoons. PAAM is not responsible for lost or stolen items, so please do not store valuables in the lockers as they do not have locks. Select workshops are able to leave materials in the studio overnight; if you are curious about whether the workshop you are interested in is able to do this, please reach out to Grace at gemmet@paam.org

Lockers are for Museum School students only. Lockers cannot be reserved by participants in the Youth Programs, Life Drawing, Open Print, or other programs within the Museum School.

 

How can I decide if a workshop is right for me?
Read the course description and bio, check out the materials list to see if it includes items you use or would like to learn about, and go to the teacher’s website to learn more about them. If you have particular questions, let us know and we’ll get you in touch with the faculty member. Workshops are listed by Media and Date for easy searching.

I’m interested in studying one-on-one with a teacher, is that possible?
We are happy to set up tutorials whenever possible, please contact us.

How many students will be in the workshop?
Unless otherwise noted, workshops are ten students or less.

Is this workshop too advanced for me?
Workshops are open to all students unless otherwise noted in the course description. If you have a particular question about a workshop, let us know.

Are there workshops for kids?
Yes, we have a number of workshops for young people. For more information, please visit the Youth Education tab or contact Grace Emmet: gemmet@paam.org. In addition, we are happy to welcome kids in the museum. We have tables for kids in the galleries with activities to peak their interests. Other resources include the Provincetown Recreation Dept and the West End Racing Club.

My daughter/son is interested in taking an ‘adult’ workshop, is that possible?
This varies by workshop. Please let us know and we’ll check with the faculty member.

Payments:
How can I register?
You may register for workshops by: Completing the online registration form that is listed under each workshop. If you need any help or have questions, please call Ruby T at 508-487-1750 and we can help you out!

How can I pay?
Payment may be made by check (made out to PAAM), money order, cash, or credit card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover).

I registered online, now what?
You will receive an email letting you know that the registration went through and then will receive a confirmation letter and materials list via email.

Are scholarships available?
We’re proud to offer scholarships here at PAAM. For more information, see below.

Can I get a discount on a workshop?
PAAM members receive a discount on tuition.

What are the advantages of becoming a member at PAAM?
Membership benefits include unlimited free admission to PAAM and 9 other New England art museums for a full year; opportunities to volunteer and serve on committees; a free tour of the summer exhibitions with PAAM CEO Christine McCarthy*; subscription to the PAAM Newsletter; implicit invitation to attend over 200 annual events; complimentary Free Members’ Workshops for members only; 10% discount in the Museum Store year-round and 25% discount on your birthday; 25% off PAAM Film Art passes; exposure to a lively community of artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts; eligibility to show your artwork in PAAM Members’ Exhibitions; low commission on artwork sales, free promotion of Members’ Exhibitions and an artist’s page in PAAM’s gallery notebook.
*schedule TBD

I’d like to give a workshop to a friend, is that possible?
Gift Certificates are available for specific workshops, in any denomination, and can be used in the school or museum.

What if I need to cancel or change my workshop?
Transfers can be made with no fee up to 14 days before a workshop start date. Cancellation within 14 days of a workshop start date results in the full loss of tuition. Workshops may be cancelled up to one day in advance due to under-enrollment. In this case, tuition will be refunded in full.

In the case that I am unable to attend a workshop, can I give my space to a friend?
Yes, though we ask that you please let us know if someone else will be taking your place in a workshop.

I can’t make all the days of the workshop; can I still take it?
In most cases, students can take part of a workshop, though you should let us know so we can check with the teaching artist. In general, workshops are not pro-rated if you are unable to attend the entire session.

How do I know what I need to bring for workshops?
Materials lists are available online with the course descriptions or can be mailed.

What does it mean that you’re a Green, non-toxic school?
Our building has been certified by the United States Green Building Council for its Leadership in Engineering and Environmental Design (LEED). This means that we’ve committed to using non-toxic materials in the school. The Art & Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) created a series of seals to let consumers know whether or not the products they are using are safe. All products in the program undergo extensive toxicological evaluation and testing before they are granted the right to bear the ACMI certification seals. Only products bearing the AP “approved product” labeling are allowed.

Do I need to bring an easel?
We supply easels for classroom workshops. If you are taking an outdoor (plein air) painting workshop you may want to bring a French outdoor easel. PAAM also has a limited number of French easels available for rent for workshops. Call ahead to see if one is available.

What’s the difference between French outdoor easels and the others?
French outdoor easels are made to be portable, sturdy in case of wind, and with clips to hold boards and materials.

What items are supplied in the studios?
Studios are stocked with easels, stools, drawing benches, side tables, pencil sharpeners, and radios. Specific materials are also supplied for certain workshops such as printmaking.

If I have a question, can I get in touch with a teaching artist?
We’re happy to put you in touch with the instructor if we can’t answer something for you.

I don’t have everything on the materials list, do I need it?
It depends. We’ve asked faculty to consider what is needed so they’ve often listed the materials that are required versus encouraged. If you have a question, please don’t hesitate to ask.

I forgot something at home!
Come ask – we often have materials that students can use while here.

I’d like to work in a medium different than the one listed, is that possible?
It depends, though often it is not an issue. Check the materials list to see if the instructor has included that information. Otherwise, feel free to ask.

Can I drop off my materials before going to park my car?
Yes, we encourage students to pull into the staff parking lot on Bangs Street to drop off heavy materials. Please pull into a spot and put your blinkers on to signal that you are there temporarily. Materials can be left inside the school door, outside the elevator, or in your actual studio.

Is there somewhere close by that I can purchase materials?
Supplies can be purchased at Conwell Ace Hardware and Lumber, and Lands’ End True Value.

How do I know where to go for Artists in their Studio workshops?
Directions will be provided upon registration.

Do you have air conditioning at PAAM?
Yes, each studio has HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) in addition to fans and space heaters to keep students and faculty comfortable.

Where do workshops take place? Are they accessible?
The Museum School entrance is on the Bangs Street side of the building, to the left of the main museum entrance at 460 Commercial Street. Unless indicated in course descriptions, workshops will be held in our studio classrooms on the second floor at 460 Commercial. Access to studios can be obtained by elevator or stairs. The Museum School is fully accessible.

Where do outdoor workshops meet? Do I need a car?
Outdoor workshops often meet on the first day at PAAM. Subsequent locations will be determined in class and students can often carpool.

What if it rains during my plein air workshop?
Museum School studio classrooms are available in the event the weather does not cooperate.

Can I work in the studio during non-workshop hours?
This varies from workshop to workshop due to scheduling. Ask about your specific workshop to see if the studio is available during non-workshop hours.

Can I leave materials in the studio during the week?
This varies depending on the workshop schedule. Feel free to ask.

My work isn’t dry and my workshop is over. What can I do?
We are happy to supply you with newsprint or cardboard to help transport work.

What time should I get to the workshop? We recommend you arrive 10 minutes before a workshop begins.

What will be going on during my time at PAAM?
In addition to the variety of workshops, The Chester I. Solomon Life Drawing program provides drop in drawing sessions on Tuesday and Friday, from 9:30-11:30am year-round. PAAM is a nationally recognized, year-round cultural institution that fuses the creative energy of America’s oldest active art colony with the natural beauty of outer Cape Cod that has inspired artists for generations. Integral to the community comprising the Provincetown Art Colony, PAAM embodies the qualities that make Provincetown an enduring American center for the arts, and serves as Cape Cod’s most widely-attended art museum. Make time to see the exhibitions in our galleries and don’t miss our outstanding lectures, concerts, panel discussions, special events, and openings. For more information, pick up a copy of the latest newsletter or go to the PAAM homepage.

Can I visit the Museum during my workshop?
Yes, students are encouraged to visit the Museum during their time here. Members receive unlimited free admission to the galleries. We invite you to view the galleries as our guest and then consider becoming a member for subsequent visits.

When is the museum open?
Current Museum hours will be listed on our website, as hours change throughout the year.

When is the office open?
The office is open Monday-Friday, 9-5.

Is there food nearby?
Angel Foods is directly across the street, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Lunch menus are available in the office or by walking over. For more significant food shopping, Stop & Shop is located on Shank Painter Rd (off of Bradford St) in the West End.

Is there WiFi available?
Yes, we have wifi but the signal is not always reliable, especially in the summer when there a more folks online!

Do you only have summer workshops?
No! Workshops are offered year-round.

How can I find out what’s going on in town?
You will receive some information about events going on around town during your workshop orientation. Alternatively, the best resources in town for visitors are the Provincetown Chamber of Commerce or Provincetown Tourism Office. Provincetown Chamber of Commerce 508.487.3424
www.ptownchamber.com Provincetown Tourism Office 508.487.3298 www.provincetowntourismoffice.org

How should I get to Provincetown?
Provincetown is accessible by boat (Boston Harbor Cruises or Baystate Cruise Company), by air (Cape Air), by bus (Plymouth & Brockton Bus) or by car.

Do I need to bring a car?
Provincetown is pretty small so you can often manage without a car. Most people travel by bike.

Can I rent a bike?
Yes, there are a number of places to rent bikes including Provincetown Bikes, Galeforce Bikes, Arnold’s Bikes, and the Bike Shack.

Is there parking?
There is no student parking. Students are encouraged to drop heavy materials off at the School before workshop, and to allow time to park and walk. Spaces on Commercial Street are free, however please be aware of Street Sweeping schedule on Tuesday mornings.

Is there handicapped parking near the museum?
Yes, there are two spaces in front of the museum on Commercial Street as well as one space in the staff lot on Bangs Street.

What should I do if there’s an emergency?
Please let a staff member know immediately or call 911 if necessary.

I’m not feeling well, is there a hospital or clinic nearby?
There is a drop-in health clinic in town if you’re in need of medical attention.

If someone wants to reach me during my workshop who should they call? Are there phones available
at PAAM?
Anyone can call PAAM at 508.487.1750 if they need to get in touch. In the case of an emergency, one of the office phones can be utilized.

I’m a teacher, can I get Professional Development Points?
We are happy to assist you in receiving PDPs.

I’m a student, can I get credit for these workshops?
Students can often receive credits, though it depends on your specific institution. Contact the Registrar at your school for more information.

I’d love to volunteer, can I?
We’re always looking for volunteers. For more information on volunteering, check out
https://paam.org/about-paam/working-at-paam/volunteering/ or reach out to Lesley Marchessault at lmarchessault@paam.org

Can I make a donation?
Yes, as a nonprofit arts organization we rely on the generosity of others and are incredibly grateful for any gift.

I’m interested in teaching a workshop.
For more information please get in touch with Ruby T: rubyt@paam.org

I know of a great teacher, can I recommend them?
Yes, we’re always looking to add to our roster of terrific faculty.

Why is it called The Lillian Orlowsky and William Freed Museum School?
The Museum School, dedicated in honor of Lillian Orlowsky and William Freed, reflects the core educational values of creative expression. Both artists were active at PAAM as members, instructors in the school, and through service on committees throughout their 50 years in Provincetown. Lillian, in particular, was sensitive to the challenges artists’ face, especially those working against the mainstream. In addition to the naming of the school, an annual grant has been created in their names to benefit under recognized American painters aged 45 or older. Their generosity reinforces PAAM’s commitment to year-round educational opportunities in the arts.

Have a question we haven’t answered?
Feel free to give a call at 508.487.1750 or email Ruby T: rubyt@paam.org
Thank you!

Virtual + Online Workshops:
How will I receive meeting information?
You will receive an invite to your first meeting in your confirmation materials. The teaching artist will be in touch with you via email with subsequent invites if your workshop has more than one session.

What if I am new to Zoom and Google Meet?
Ruby T, our Curator of Adult Education, is happy to offer technology lessons for any student who would like one. Reach out to her at rubyt@paam.org

Plein air Workshops:
How is PAAM looking out for the safety of students and staff?
All students and staff must wear a cloth face mask for the duration of their class session.

What if it rains?
Your teaching artist will either have a covered location picked out, or a virtual lesson planned for that day. You can clarify with your individual teaching artist. Should weather impact instruction for 2+ day and it impacts your experience, full and partial refunds will be available.

Where are we meeting for the first session?
Your teaching artist will be in touch before the first session with directions and their contact information. Please always bring water, hat, sunscreen, and a snack!

The Cape Cod Artist’s Scholarship is offered to local artists who reside on Cape Cod year-round. It honors significant members of the PAAM family and is supported through generous donations. The scholarship, which underwrites a PAAM workshop, is open to all types of media. Painters, printmakers, photographers, sculptors, and mixed media artists are encouraged to apply. There is no age restriction.

Scholarship amounts will be allocated on the basis of: available funding; the number of applicants; and the quality/need of the applicants. Upon request, scholarships may be reviewed for renewal. Recipients accepted for scholarship must agree to certain conditions including regular attendance and commitment to workshops, the promotion of PAAM in general, and participation in exhibition openings; exhibitions installation, and/or other minor volunteer capacities.

Applicants must submit a one-page statement of artistic vision and examples of their work. Letters of recommendation as to the candidate’s potential and ability to develop artistic talent are encouraged, but not required. Interested applicants may send their materials to Curator of Museum Education Ruby T via email at rubyt@paam.org, who will share them with PAAM CEO Christine McCarthy for review.

PAAM is grateful for the generous donors who fund these efforts to continue developing future generations of Provincetown artists.

For more information, contact Ruby T: rubyt@paam.org