In this drawing course, we will work from observation as we explore a combination of organic and geometric forms. The still-life set up will give you practice with measuring, looking at angles, value, object placement, and challenge you to compose in different ways. We’ll look at visual pathways through our image, and seek to determine how much is “enough” information to convey our idea convincingly. When does it make sense to simplify? When does it make sense to really describe? After a couple of quick thumbnails, our goal will be an extended drawing where you can really push through your piece. All levels are welcome and encouraged. Each week will be a different still life, so you are welcome to sign up for both sessions. Covid 19 safety protocols will follow state and school district recommendations for in-person events.

In this drawing course, we will work from observation as we explore a combination of organic and geometric forms. The still-life set up will give you practice with measuring, looking at angles, value, object placement, and challenge you to compose in different ways. We’ll look at visual pathways through our image, and seek to determine how much is “enough” information to convey our idea convincingly. When does it make sense to simplify? When does it make sense to really describe? After a couple of quick thumbnails, our goal will be an extended drawing where you can really push through your piece. All levels are welcome and encouraged. Each week will be a different still life, so you are welcome to sign up for both sessions. Covid 19 safety protocols will follow state and school district recommendations for in-person events.

Painting with other people is a lot of fun. Painting outside and observing nature is even more fun! Join Jennifer to get outside, breathe some fresh air, and be inspired by the scenic beauty that we call our unique landscape in Midcoast Maine. We will paint or draw on location, and you will receive personal feedback, as well as the camaraderie of being with other creative types. Casual group critiques at the end of sessions will inspire your art-making. Learn what to consider when you choose a location, elements that make a strong composition, and how to engage with nature. Covid 19 safety protocols will follow state and school district recommendations for in-person events. No discounts. Rain date is July 16.

So-called "Oriental" or round-leafed bittersweet is a creeping vine with inedible berries that is considered invasive in North America. Frustrating to gardeners and arborists, and not readily favored by birds, bittersweet is a largely useless bane on wild land. We can use traditional harvesting techniques to tend Asian bittersweet in the wild, like harvesting material for baskets while controlling and suppressing future damaging growth. We'll cover identification, responsible collection, materials processing and storage, and creation, including the basics of stake-and-strand twining and weaving. We'll shoot for a basket about 8-inches wide and 4-inches deep. Tools and materials included. Covid 19 safety protocols will follow state and school district recommendations for in-person events. No discounts.

In this unique class, we will explore a variety of authentic Chinese calligraphy fundamentals and styles through hands-on and weekly practice experience, discussion and reflection. Class is open to all levels of interest and experience, and could be particularly beneficial for Chinese language learners, graphic designers, and artists who want to forge a stronger connection between typography on a screen and handwritten characters on paper. The class also covers the rich contents of Chinese ancient and contemporary cultures. This class will take place outside under a tent. Covid 19 safety protocols will follow state and school district recommendations for in-person events.

Whether you’ve just purchased your first digital camera or you are an aspiring pro or semi-pro photographer, this crash course will give you the technical skills and creative inspiration to take your work to a new level. You will become more confident handling your camera and choosing settings to produce quality of images. Discussion, demos, handouts, slide shows, videos, and hands-on practice are included. Students are encouraged to study and practice on their own with optional homework assignments. Please bring a digital camera with manual exposure mode, fully-charged battery, at least one lens, tripod and an extra memory card. Class takes place on Zoom. Students must have reliable internet, and an audio and video enabled computer, tablet or smartphone to participate.

This will be a one-day six-hour weaving workshop to enjoy your love of weaving outside under the tent. We will help you work through any weaving issues you are having, share new ideas and techniques, and examine new fibers that you may not have worked with before. Each student will spend a few minutes weaving on a group project that will stay at Merrymeeting to inspire future students. Bring your loom, fiber stash and all your questions. Covid 19 safety protocols will follow state and school district recommendations for in-person events. No discounts.