This course covers multiple subject areas and includes assignments and sharing your work with the class. Are you still getting to know your digital camera and its features? Here's an opportunity to learn from an expert in this seminar for beginners! Have your camera ready and learn when and how to use its special features - such as program mode, manual mode, aperture priority and shutter priority. Also covered will be basic composition and best use of light for different situations, such as plant, people, macro, and landscape photography. Please have a computer, stable internet connection, and your camera. Zoom link provided by instructor.

Steve McGrath is a professional freelance photographer and teacher with 25 years of experience shooting sports photos for local high schools, then weddings and stock agencies. His love of the great outdoors led him to his true passion—nature photography. Steve was an active member of the Gateway Camera Club for many years and has won many ribbons and awards at fairs and competitions through the group and on his own. Many of his images have been published in school textbooks.

Study color theory by blending and using pigments to build a solid foundation in watercolor painting. Create the illusion of distance and composition by demonstrated technique. You will be guided through the process as you create your first painting‚ after that the possibilities are endless! Russel will assist you in building skills and confidence throughout the course.

Bring 1 small tube each: cadmium yellow (light), cobalt blue, alizarin crimson, 1 paint palette (Russel says folding ones are ideal!), 1 round #10 watercolor brush; 1 inch wide flat brush, 1 drawing pencil #2H, 1 eraser, 1 light-weight board or piece of cardboard; and two sheets of Arches watercolor paper, 140 lb. cold press, 22x30 inches (total supply cost approx. $80).

Note: Please purchase Arches, as the quality of watercolor paper is essential for handling the techniques you will be taught in class. Please bring any colors you already have.

Russel Whitten, a local artist and teacher, studied at The Art Students League of New York, Heartwood College of Art, and is a member of The Ogunquit Art Association/Barn Gallery. Students adore his laid-back, encouraging demeanor.

Seize the opportunity to create beautiful handcrafted paper bowls! These unique bowls make fantastic presents or home décor. Decorative papers, handmade papers and adhesive are provided. Bring a small plastic cereal bowl.

Gayle Fitzpatrick has taught in public and private schools, colleges and adult and community programs for 30+ years. She is a practicing artist, producing and showing paper, print, and painted pieces.

Have a sewing project in mind but don't know where to start? Join us and sew with friendly, like-minded people! Make a project you'll be proud of and take the guesswork out of sewing. Emily will be available to provide sewing machine basics, pattern reading, and basic sewing and finishing techniques. Enjoy a small class size and work at your own pace with personalized instruction. Come learn to sew or improve your skills in this hands-on class.

Emily Loder is a recreational programmer who, through Girl Scouting and volunteer service, has learned many skills that she enjoys sharing with her community. She has extensive experience with both machine and hand sewing techniques.

Unleash your creativity and find your inner calm in this immersive meditative drawing session. Designed for artists of all levels, this workshop invites you to explore the therapeutic benefits of drawing through a series of engaging prompts, including zentangles, whimsical doodles, and a mix of both abstract and realistic themes. Experience the joy of drawing without the pressure of perfection. This session prioritizes the process over the product, encouraging you to let your imagination flow freely. Whether you're a seasoned artist or picking up a pencil for the first time, you'll discover a space where relaxation and creativity intersect. All drawing supplies will be provided, allowing you to dive right in. However, feel free to bring your own sketchbook and favorite materials if you prefer. Join us for an evening of fun, exploration, and inspiration–where the only goal is to enjoy the art of drawing!

Karalyn Thayer has a BFA from the ME College of Art with a background in teaching web and graphic design. She creates her art with the use of mixed-media illustrations and loves experimenting with at-home printmaking.

One form of appliquéd table rug that became very popular during the early to mid-19th century was the 'penny rug,' so called because of the small circular patches of wool used to create geometric and pictorial scenes. After shearing, spinning, weaving and wearing one's own wool, no one would throw away a piece of woolen fabric until it was smaller than a penny! Every scrap was recycled. Soon creative stitchers developed images of flowers, urns, birds, and familiar animals and further embellished by the use of simple embroidery stitches to hold each patch in place and to add expressive detail.Watch a demonstration from start to finish as you discuss the art form's history, view antique examples, and discover sources for materials. No prior experience is needed!

Visit jconnerhookedrugs.com to view available kits. Each kit contains a unique selection of pre-washed and hand-dyed wools, patterns, design suggestions, embroidery needle, and threads! (approx. $25-$75, price dependent on size). Email fcjc@roadrunner.com to reserve your favorite. Pay the instructor for your kit in class.

Bring small, sharp fabric scissors and a bagged lunch to class.

Janet Conner, BS in Art Education from Moore College of Art & Design, is a member of the Saco Valley Fiber Artists, and exhibits regionally and at ME Fiber Arts Center. Her hooked designs, as well as those of her students', have been highlighted in Finishing Hooked Rugs and Rug Hooking Magazine. In 2016, Janet co-authored the book Rug Hooking Traditions with James and Mercedes Hutchinson. She released Magnificent Hooked Rugs, which were influenced by Western art history, in 2020. She teaches both domestically and abroad.

Explore gentle warm up stretches, meditations, and creativity including mindful art, journaling, and doodling! You are invited to listen to your body, thoughts, inner guidance, and do what feels right for you. Progress, not perfection, is the goal as we explore various techniques together, noticing what practices are resonating with you. Benefits of these practices include reduced stress and anxiety, regulation of the nervous system, relaxation, a sense of calm, a boost to your energy, connecting to the present moment, and lighthearted fun. Please dress comfortably, bring water, and a yoga mat.

Martha Fournier is a registered yoga and mindfulness teacher (RYT-200), certified mindful art and yoga teacher, a qigong and meditation guide, certified life coach, Reiki master, and also practices Sound Healing. 

Create your own cards and envelopes using watercolor, homemade stamps, and drawing tools! We'll explore color mixing and layering to create vibrant stationary. The stamps used in class will be made from a variety of recycled materials including rubber bands, bubble wrap, and yarn. Participants will take home at least five cards and five sheets of stamped paper that could be turned into envelopes. All materials are provided. Please wear appropriate clothing to work with paint.

Sara Ottomano has more than 10 years of experience teaching art classes. She enjoys encouraging others to play with materials, explore sustainable artmaking practices, and create stories together.