Learn the Zentangle method for mindful drawing and create your own art even if you don’t think you are an artist. Using the Zentangle motto of “anything is possible one stroke at a time,” you’ll learn simple pen strokes that will open up doors to creative pattern-making for relaxation, creativity, and focus. In this introduction, Irene Burgess, certified Zentangle teacher, will provide you the basics of the method in a stress-reducing atmosphere designed to make you appreciate your own creativity. All supplies needed will be provided.

This class is a watercolor with pen and ink class for beginners, or people who need a space to pull out the watercolors that are collecting dust. Students will leave with a matted, abstract botanical/nature-based piece. We will start with a free painting approach with an emphasis on colors and patterns in nature, creating two different pieces. Working from an array of photos, art books and bouquets of fresh flowers, students will be encouraged to paint, draw, or even transfer some abstract botanical shapes and images onto their watercolors. With a supply of different sized mats, we will mix and match our pieces with the goal of everyone finding a mat for one of their pieces.

Keep the creativity flowing with Catherine in this laid-back, paint-night–style watercolor workshop! Each session brings a fresh mix of color experiments, playful techniques, and mixed media magic — think watercolor with a twist of ink, pencil, or other fun materials. You’ll start with a quick color-mixing sheet to get those creative juices going, then dive into a new technique designed to expand your skills and spark inspiration. It’s all about relaxing, learning something new, and enjoying the creative process together! All materials included — just show up ready to paint and play! Each session is a standalone workshop, with a $20 materials fee due to the instructor for each session. The materials fee covers everything you’ll need.

In this class we will discuss what the other side (heaven) might look like. You will learn about the dimensions between heaven and earth. We will also talk about what we do as souls while we are on the other side. Near the end of class, there will be a meditation where you will have the chance to meet an ancestor, angel. spirit guide, or spirit animal.

Merrymeeting Bay is an amazing wetland area right in our backyards, yet unknown to many because of limited access. This in-person class will acquaint you with the Bay in two ways: first, during six weekly class meetings you’ll learn about the nature and ecology of the Bay. Second, you’ll be introduced each week to a different nature preserve that touches on the Bay, with complete directions for exploring the trails at your own pace and time. *This class does not involve any outdoor excursions.

Part One: Learning to See. Instructor Ed Higgins has helped many local artists of all experience levels gain confidence in their drawing simply by refusing to reinforce many common misconceptions about art which abound in the social media milieu. We learn art by actively doing it, not by passively watching. Understanding how to see like an artist is the first, essential step upon which all subsequent fine art skills depend. Simple, careful observation. Paying attention. It’s not mysterious, it’s not magic. But there are no shortcuts, and it does take practice. The trick is making the practice of observation itself fun, and that requires a willingness to stop telling yourself that you can’t do something. Focusing on results rather than learning, and product instead of process leads to impediments in development which effectively blinds artists rather than actually helping them improve their ability to see. The materials list for this class are: 1) your eyes, in reasonably good working order, 2) a sketchbook, and 3) a pencil and eraser. *No Class: 4/21.

Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to brush up on previous skills, this is the drawing class for you. Working in a variety of media, we will cover all of the basics: line, shape, value, proportion, composition, perspective and markmaking. Particular focus is placed on observational skills, learning how to translate the 3-dimensional world onto a 2-dimensional surface. A materials list will be provided after registration. *This session is 8 weeks.

Admit it - winter in Maine can get l o n g! All the more reason to take a trip to the Greek Isles in this new one night culinary adventure! We will make classic Lemon chicken soup (Avgolemono) Phyllo feta & spinach triangles (Spanakopita) and sample olives and cheeses typical to the islands. Bring an apron and containers to take home baked goods and a jar with lid to take home extra soup. All materials included.