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Creative Arts
in Personal Enrichment
Gelli Plate Printmaking
with Karalyn Thayer

Learn to use gelli printing plates! We will cover a variety of layering techniques in this entertaining printmaking session, incorporating found materials to add texture. Have fun experimenting and creating art that can be displayed on its own or used in other crafts or collages. All materials provided.
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.
Smartphone Photography - Live Online - Spring
with Steve McGrath

Impress your family and friends with your photos! Learn how to use the camera settings on your phone, as well as how to share and print your photos. Discuss picture-taking techniques and the best free and low-cost tools for editing, finishing, and image management. This class will include time viewing photos, and the instructor will provide feedback on student work. Come explore the magic of smartphone photography with Steve!
Preregistration required, with registration closing at noon on 5/13. Zoom link provided by instructor.
Please have a computer, a stable internet connection, and your fully charged smartphone (Android or Apple).
Steve McGrath is a professional freelance photographer and teacher with 25 years of experience. 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.
DIY Hardcover Journals & Sketchbooks
with Gayle Fitzpatrick

Explore basic bookbinding techniques! Create a one-of-a-kind, sewn hardcover journal or sketchbook. Our focus will be on technique, structure, tools, materials, and processes. Leave with a personally hand-bound book and the know-how to make more on your own! All materials provided.
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.
Introduction to Metalworking Section 2- Spring
with Jessica Muise

Unlock the basics of metalworking in this beginner-friendly course. Learn essential techniques like cutting, shaping, heating, and polishing metal to create a unique pair of fine silver earrings from start to finish. Using simple tools like a handheld kitchen torch and small metal anvils, practice with copper and brass before completing a final piece in silver. Perfect for those looking to bring metalworking into their home or pop-up studio. Registration closes at noon on 5/16. All materials provided.
Jessica Muise, a multidisciplinary artist and educator has been teaching and making art throughout New England for the last 15 years. She is passionate about using the arts as tools for social change and serves as a creative economy advisor to several arts organizations and artist-led coalitions.
Floating Embroidery: Spring Bouquet
with Sarah deGrandis

Create a magical floating piece of embroidery featuring a spring flower bouquet! Learn basic embroidery stitches to use on tulle in a 6-inch round hoop to create a lovely piece for your home or to give as a gift. All materials provided.
Sarah deGrandis is a formally trained artist and lifelong crafter with a BFA in New Media from the ME College of Art. She is passionate about learning different crafts and using modern, fun takes on traditional techniques.
Intro to Nature Journaling
with Beverly Thorpe

All levels welcome! Engage curiosity about the natural world using drawing and discussion. The first class will be held at the Saco Learning Center and class locations to various nature-rich areas will be discussed weekly and includes Clifford Park and Blandings Park Wildlife Sanctuary. Beverly will call by 9am IF the class is moved indoors (to the Saco Learning Center) due to inclement weather. No class 6/7.
Bring a 5.5- X 8.5-inch spiral multimedia sketchbook, mechanical pencil with eraser, several gel or ballpoint pens with fine or medium points as well as a container to hold your materials when traveling to different sites. Optional: Watercolor pencil set (instructor recommends Pentel Arts Aquash water brushes available on Amazon - materials approx. $35).
Beverly Thorpe is a Maine Master Naturalist and artist working with various forms of art including metalsmithing, drawing, painting and creating artist books. She leads nature walks on local trails focused on native plants & trees, and loves to share the awe-inspiring beauty of nature with others.
Will run
Introduction to Metalworking- Spring
with Jessica Muise

Unlock the basics of metalworking in this beginner-friendly course. Learn essential techniques like cutting, shaping, heating, and polishing metal to create a unique pair of fine silver earrings from start to finish. Using simple tools like a handheld kitchen torch and small metal anvils, practice with copper and brass before completing a final piece in silver. Perfect for those looking to bring metalworking into their home or pop-up studio. Registration closes at noon on 5/23. All materials provided.
Jessica Muise, a multidisciplinary artist and educator has been teaching and making art throughout New England for the last 15 years. She is passionate about using the arts as tools for social change and serves as a creative economy advisor to several arts organizations and artist-led coalitions.
Meditative Drawing
with Karalyn Thayer

Unleash your creativity and find your inner calm in this immersive meditative drawing session! Designed for artists of all levels, 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.