NAEA Open Studio Conversation: Create Digital Trading Cards: Teaching Foundational Art Skills With Free Tools

Includes a Live Web Event on 08/27/2026 at 7:00 PM (EDT)

NAEA Open Studio Conversation: Create Digital Trading Cards: Teaching Foundational Art Skills With Free Tools
Thursday, August 27, 2026 
Cost: FREE!

Step into the Wacom Hero Lab and discover how simple digital art skills can unlock creativity in any classroom. In this Open Studio, educators will explore foundational digital drawing techniques such as sketching, linework, using layers, and adding color while working with free online art tools. Inspired by Wacom’s hands-on Hero Lab experience at NAEA26, this session demonstrates how to guide students through creating their own Art Hero trading card while learning core digital art skills along the way. Participants will leave with ready-to-use lesson plans, printable digital templates, classroom adaptations, and creative inspiration to help bring digital art into their teaching. No prior digital art experience is required.

Please note that participation in this live event or recording does not include NAEA professional learning credit. 

Michele Dick

Michele Dick

Education Marketing Manager

Michele Dick is an educator first and foremost, and she brings her unique skills and experiences as classroom teacher, technology specialist, and digital learning coordinator with Evergreen Public Schools in Vancouver, WA, to her role at Wacom. A sought-after conference speaker, professional learning expert, and innovator in integrating digital ink technologies into creative and core curriculum instruction, Michele provides essential support, expertise, and creativity into her role, helping educators tap the power of digital pen and display technologies in their teaching practices. 

Christopher Diego

Christopher Diego

Senior Specialist Digital Media and Community Engagement

In Wacom’s marketing department, I get to use my tablet for digital illustration, graphic design, video editing, photography, and motion graphics. Outside of work I stream art-related content on Twitch and volunteer for my local Creative Mornings chapter. I also just finished getting my certificate in CTE education. I want to give students the tools and resources they need to create what they want to see in the world. 

Laura Grundler

Laura Grundler

NAEA Chief of Creative Engagement

Components visible upon registration.