If you have ever wanted to learn an art or craft, there is no better time than the present and there is no better place than Piedmont Arts. Whether you are honing existing skills or trying something new, the roster for spring classes at Piedmont Arts is full of exciting opportunities for all ages. Sign-ups are available on the Piedmont Arts website and admission prices vary depending on the class, materials required, and the instructor.
On Thursdays April 6, May 4, and June 1 at 9:30 a.m., certified Bob Ross technique instructor Naomi Hodge-Muse will be teaching a Bob Ross painting class. Learn his famous painting techniques and create your own happy little painting of a natural landscape. The next three classes will focus on painting a Hidden Stream, a Secluded Beach, and a Blue River. Students are asked to bring a roll of paper towels but all over supplies will be provided. Advance registration is required, and tickets are $75 for members and $85 for non-members.
Wee Create! is a set time for themed crafts for young children (ages 2-6) and their trusted adults. These crafts are curated and taught by Piedmont Arts’ Education Coordinator, Sarah Short. The next meeting time for this class is on Tuesday, May 16 at 3 p.m. Adult supervision and advanced registration are required. This class is free for members and $10 for non-members with $5 for every additional child.
Chix with Stix is a group for knitters who are invited to work together in the Piedmont Arts classroom on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Sessions are self-guided and provide a space to socialize while creating. Bring your own supplies. These meet-ups are free to members and non-members will be asked to pay $5 at the door. Advanced registration is required.
The Busy Bee’s Craft Meet is an informal circle to socialize, learn and share with fellow crafters. Bring your lap-sized hand-craft, such as cross-stitch, knitting, crochet, paper crafts, hand sewing, needle felting, etc. Led by Jennifer Reis and Lara Blair. Advanced registration is required. The Craft Meet will meet on Saturdays May 13 at 3 p.m., June 17 at 3 p.m., and July 1 at 3 p.m. Admission is free for members and $5 for non-members.
In addition to these recurring classes, Piedmont Arts also hosts an array of one-time classes. The first will be an Indigo Shibori: Natural Dyeing on Fabric course. Experience the magic of natural dyeing with instructor Jennifer Reis. Participants will learn how to prepare the dye vat; techniques of binding, stitching, clamping, and other pattern-making options; the dye process itself; and final preparation of finished products. Everyone will get one silk scarf and three tea towels to dye – additional scarves and tea towels will be available for purchase and participants are welcome to bring personal, white/cream, fabric items of cotton or silk to dye as well. Advanced registration required. Admission is $55 for members and $60 for non-members.
Paint by Prompt with Ashley Ullstein on May 18 at 5:30 p.m. This event is for ages 18 and up. This fun “Sip and Paint” is all about expressing your own unique style. In this two-hour class, students will use a series of randomly chosen painting prompts to lead them in creating an abstract piece of artwork. Each student will have their own supplies and with everyone’s unique interpretation of the given prompts. No two paintings will be alike. Open to all levels, all materials provided. Aprons or protective clothing are recommended. Bring your own beverage and snacks. Admission is $75 for members and $80 for non-members.
More information on these courses, the instructors, and how to register are available on the Piedmont Arts website. Please feel free to call the museum with questions as well.
Piedmont Arts is a nonprofit art museum located at 215 Starling Ave., Martinsville. Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free. Learn more at PiedmontArts.org.
