The year 2020 was a time of profound change for everyone. To cope with the uncertainty and strict protocols brought on by the global pandemic, many people found themselves re-evaluating their lives—changing jobs, restructuring daily routines, prioritizing health and wellness, experimenting with DIY haircuts, or venturing into new hobbies. If there’s one positive takeaway from those challenging years, it might be how the pandemic reshaped our relationship with time—a shift that continues to evolve as we navigate the post-pandemic world.

During that period, Laura Storck found herself with free time to explore new forms of visual art. A seasoned photographer and lifelong artist within the PAFA community as a Continuing Education student, Laura has always been passionate about art, a love that began in childhood. With over 24 years of experience in photography, she’d primarily focused on that medium—until the pandemic spurred a shift in her creative development, leading her to seek out classes in drawing and painting.

(Left) Night Sky, film photo; (Right) Inspired by Night Sky, film photo

While she had taken a few art classes over the years, it was PAFA’s offerings that caught her attention. "The variety of classes and the quality of the faculty drew me to PAFA. The online classes they offer now are a perfect fit for my lifestyle," she said, reflecting on how the flexibility of online learning has allowed her to continue her artistic education alongside her regular full time job.

For Laura, although the experience isn’t exactly the same as in-person, online classes don’t diminish the sense of community that PAFA fosters. "I miss the days when I used to work in a darkroom with others. It was great to bounce ideas off each other and see what everyone was working on." She found her online class with Susan Sullivan exceptional, noting a strong connection with her and the class regardless of virtual challenges, a great dynamic, and an enjoyable experience, prompting a desire to take more of her classes.

Another highlight of Laura’s time at PAFA was her workshop with Kassem Amoudi, where she explored the role of color in painting through strategic and intuitive techniques and color concepts like temperature and saturation. “I attended his workshop two years ago and loved it. It was a three-day online session with a small group of just three or four people. Although two didn’t stay for the entire workshop, it worked out well for me. He’s definitely a talented instructor.”

(Left) Pentimento Deux, prize-winning submission to the 2024 Continuing Education exhibition at PAFA ; (right) Sound and Vision, SOLD at the Plastic Club

In that class, Laura made two works - one of them she submitted to the 2024 Continuing Education exhibition and won a prize for it, and the other she sold at an exhibition at The Plastic Club, where she’s an active member and board member. "It was a proud moment for me," Laura admitted. "I’m glad that someone else appreciated it as much as I did. It made me feel like maybe I have something special here. It was a new area for me to explore, and it felt very validating.”

Laura with Sound and Vision - SOLD at the Plastic Club

At PAFA, Laura found more than just a path for personal growth, but also a supportive environment that enhanced her experience. "There’s no judgment here," Laura emphasized. “Initially, I might have felt intimidated by the idea of taking a class at PAFA, given its long-standing reputation as the oldest art school in Philadelphia. I worried about whether I'd fit in, but those concerns were unfounded. In the classroom, everyone is at different levels, and it truly feels like an equal playing field. The support and lack of judgment from peers have been incredibly reassuring and encouraging.”

Looking ahead, Laura is excited to continue expanding her artistic practice. She hopes to work on larger-scale pieces and oil paintings, a medium she’s yet to try. "I’d like to expand my body of work further. I enjoy exploring various mediums, and while some people may be more focused, I see value in my diverse interests. I’m aiming to build a cohesive body of work and showcase it in a single exhibition.”

Fauvism and Landscape

For anyone considering PAFA’s Continuing Education classes, Laura’s advice is simple: "Just go for it. PAFA offers a range of opportunities in a supportive environment where you can learn a lot from both classmates and instructors. It’s been a valuable experience for me, and you really get out of it what you put into it."

Don’t wait for another of life’s reminders that time is limited—seize the moment to explore what you love. Whether you're experienced  or just starting out, take the next steps, one step at a time. Embrace the journey, soak in as much as you can, and watch yourself grow. If your passion is art, consider enrolling in a course at PAFA. Explore our diverse offerings, learn from esteemed artists, and join our supportive community as you pursue your artistic passions.