Wayne County Public Library in partnership with The Arts Council of Wayne County are offering professionally-taught, instructional workshops to the 55+ community.  The first series of classes has finished, but please check back in late summer/early fall for a survey concerning the next set of classes.

Previous Classes:

Program 1: Choral Connections

Whether you have never sung before or you have lots of singing experience, we welcome you to join us for 8 weeks of making music together. Using songs of different styles, we will work on producing a lovely sound, breath control, beginning music reading, and singing as a group.

Program 2: Smartphone Photography

Students will learn to take and edit quality photos using cell phones. The first half of the class will address a variety of subject matter and we will utilize both natural and artificial light. The second part will teach the many ways that an artist can manipulate photographs to create digital and multimedia art that is interesting and thought-provoking to viewers.  Students should have access to a smartphone or tablet with a working camera no older than 5 years and be able to download several free applications.

Program 3: Painting with Acrylics

Professional artist and art instructor, Shyla Sutton will introduce you to the basic principles and techniques of painting. Through a wide range of experiences, you will learn about painting tools, basic color mixing, and composition. You will also engage in a variety of subjects ranging from still life to nature.

Program 4:  Quilting – 45” x 18” Zig Zag Quilt Table Runner

Working with an experienced instructor in quilting, students will enjoy learning how to quilt a Zig Zag quilt table runner using two different techniques – hand quilting and piecing and machine quilting and piecing.  This course is geared toward beginners 55+ who want to learn to quilt with little or no knowledge of quilting. All skill levels are welcome and we can learn from each other. During the first part of the course, students will start with the basics in sewing and gradually increase their abilities in quilting and by the end of the course participants will have created a charming quilted table runner.

Program 5: Floral Design

Be creative, arrange something beautiful!  Join us for a fun and interactive floral design class! Let your creativity run free as we teach you the art of arranging beautiful bouquets and blooms. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, this class is perfect for everyone. During this in-person event, you’ll learn various techniques and tips from an award winning professional. We’ll guide you through the process of selecting the perfect flowers, arranging them in a visually pleasing way, and adding those finishing touches that make your creations truly unique. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn a new skill, meet fellow flower enthusiasts, and take home your very own floral arrangements.

Program 6: From Memory to Memoir

This course will review the nature of memoir and the elements of narrative writing as participants begin to organize and preserve their memories to create memoirs. Each of the first seven sessions will include time for writing as participants reflect on the people, the places, and the events of their lives. The eighth session will be a celebration of progress toward the development of their memoirs. Whether one’s memoir is for publication, for a family gift, or for personal satisfaction, this short course should open participants’ minds to their own wealth of memories and to their own potential as memoir writers.

Program 7 & 8: Choral Connections

Whether you have never sung before or you have lots of singing experience, we welcome you to join us for 8 weeks of making music together. Using songs of different styles, we will work on producing a lovely sound, breath control, beginning music reading, and singing as a group.