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.

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.

Discover the vibrant world of plant-based color in this fun, hands-on workshop! Learn how to transform everyday items–like onion skins, avocado peels, and wildflowers–into beautiful, eco-friendly dyes. Explore the basics of fabric prep, discuss which plants and kitchen scraps yield the best results, and practice creating your own colorful dye baths to customize a pair of organic cotton napkins. Leave with the know-how to replicate the process at home, your self-made napkins, and a set of swatches for future reference. Bring your curiosity and get ready to embrace nature's palette! 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.

Make your own printed cards using real plants! Explore printmaking with plants and non-toxic paints to create one-of-a-kind cards. Leave with at least five completed cards and envelopes! All materials provided.

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.

Make ornamental papers using this time-honored art form. These papers may be used for a variety of projects, including handmade books, scrapbooking, cards, boxes, picture frames, and more. Learn about the tools and techniques that will enable you to develop this craft and its potential for future projects. 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.

In the first live online class, we'll start by learning camera settings, aperture, shutter, ISO, white balance, and other compositional techniques critical to lighthouse photography.

On Saturday, 7/12, we will gather in person for the Lighthouse Lovers Cruise (3:30-7:30pm), through the Maine Maritime Museum, where we will focus on photographing the wildlife and lighthouses, sharing techniques and approaches.

Finally, we'll meet online the following week to discuss, share and critique our images. For beginner and intermediate photographers.

Note: Students must purchase their own Lighthouse Lovers Cruise ticket through the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath (appox. $63).

Please have a computer, stable internet connection, and your fully charged digital camera or smartphone for all sessions.

Preregistration required, with registration closing at noon on 7/9.

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.

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.

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 pottery, metalsmithing, drawing, and painting. She leads nature walks on local trails focused on native plants & trees, and loves to share the awe-inspiring beauty of nature with others.