Classes Begin January 23 at Chestnut Center for the Arts
A variety of winter classes are set to start the week of January 23rd at the Chestnut Center. There is a little something for everyone that has an interest in the arts. For young adults, classes themed in creating musicals, drawing comic book characters or creating monsters are available. For adults, clay work for beginners or more advanced for those with experience is an option. Also offered are acrylic painting and figure drawing.
The Chestnut Center is a nonprofit, 501(c) 3 organization that has brought the world of art to Marshfield. Whether it’s the performing arts, viewing artist’s creations, or by participating in any of the workshops offered, talent is always on display. Hosting classes for a minimal fee is another way that the Chestnut Center gives back to the community.
Executive Director Adam Smrcka said that the arts are an integral part of thriving communities. “The arts are an incredible part of the fabric of education in our society. It is an avenue for expression and strengthening confidence,” he said. “The arts are one of the earliest forms of communication in history. We have such a technology dependent society that giving kids and teens this opportunity is vital to their growth.”
Instructing a couple of these classes is Jason Cole. Cole will be inspiring the youth that attend in the art of making monsters. This course is for students 12 years and older. Encouragement will be given to students to use animals as inspiration and use their imagination to turn them into myths.
Cole will also be instructing a class on comic book art. The focus will be on character development and storytelling.
For the budding superstar, Edie Smazal will be bringing her talents to a course titled “Let’s Make a Musical!” Kids will make their own costumes in addition to learning their scripts. The end of the class features a 20-minute musical that will be performed on February 28th.
“I love to see the excitement in children’s eyes during a musical discovery or experience. I can’t wait to meet my cast,” said Smazal. “Children ages 8-12 don’t have very many opportunities to expand their theatrical skills.”
Hosting the acrylic painting class is Sarah Pritzl. Choices include black and white techniques, layering with color, adding 3-D elements, or receiving help on your own technique.
To get a start with clay pottery, Marty Yohn will offer an introduction to pottery and ceramics and show what can be done with clay.
Smrcka will be sharing his knowledge in an intermediate to advanced clay pottery class. As owner of Field Creek Potter, Smrcka has a wealth of knowledge that students will enjoy. This class will focus on advanced techniques to make functional tableware.
For Smrcka, teaching provides many rewards. “It’s all about seeing someone come in and sit down, relax and take some time for themselves to do something they enjoy, or want to learn. It is a time to escape and invest in their own mental health. The arts provide therapy and open up an opportunity to get back to learning which is incredibly important.”
Classes run from 4 – 6 weeks with varying fees from $75 – $150. Information can be found on the Chestnut Center’s website, http://chestnut.nex-z.com/ To sign up for any of the classes or to receive more information, please call the Chestnut Center at 715-389-8999.
