Have you noticed that there seems to be a general sense of relief that 2016 is over, and everywhere one can hear nervous wishes and hopes for a better year in 2017? I had a chat with a friend yesterday about why we seem to draw a line in the sand and arbitrarily think that the world may automatically be a better place to live, simply because our day planners now read 2017. So I got to thinking that if we do all wish for a better year than the last, it must follow that steps must be taken to make it happen. Life won't necessarily feel better if we all just adhere to the status quo, cynically thinking that 2017 can't be any worse than 2016.
So if you are looking for something to help your new year resolutions along, why not think about signing up for one of the many creative classes that exist in the city? There are multiple benefits of having a creative outlet, including improved focus, a reduction in stress, exercise, socialization and an overall increased optimistic outlook. Here are just a few artistic educational opportunities that are available for you to consider:
Let's start with pottery, which is a really hot commodity right now. I will be writing about the Prince George Potters Guild soon, but do note that there are two pottery workshops starting at Studio 2880 next week, including a beginner wheel class on Thursdays from Jan. 19 to Feb. 23, and an intermediate wheel cass on Wednesdays from Jan. 18 to Feb. 22. You can register by calling 250-563-2880 or by visiting the Artisan Gift Shoppe at 2880 15th Ave., where you can also purchase gorgeous pottery items on sale. Clay and tools are included in the class fees of $250 for the six weeks.
If you are interested in painting and drawing, there are several organizations that offer an interesting mix of classes and workshops for all ages and levels here in Prince George. The Artists Workshop group offers weekly classes, and will be holding a live draped model practice class on Jan. 26. Christina Watts at Ridge Side Art on Third Avenue also has an incredibly diverse range of fun classes in a variety of media, such as a palette knife workshop currently running on Tuesday evenings until Jan. 31. The Artists Co-Op, located at the Crown Market on Hart Highway, provides on-going, top quality painting classes, or you can study with Carla Joseph Aubichon, the Community Arts Council's highly sought-after artist in residence, who teaches at Studio 2880 weekly on Saturdays.
For those interested in music (parents and youth), the second semester at the PG Conservatory of Music starts Jan. 23, and the faculty will be presenting a concert at St. Andrew's Church on Jan. 29. For more information on classes and concerts, please visit www.pgconservatory.ca.
The Exploration Place has an interesting program for families involved with home schooling, with their Homeschooler Mondays program. On Jan. 16, families can join Exploration Place education staff for an hour of self-directed learning in the galleries followed by an hour-long school program. Afterwards, homeschooled families can stay to eat their lunches and visit and socialize. Each Homeschooler Monday offers a primary program for ages 5-8 and an intermediate program for ages 9-12. For more information on the program, please visit www.theexplorationplace.com.
Two Rivers Gallery has a great program called Sunday Open Studio, which allows people of all ages to drop by the gallery and experience their own personal creativity. Each week a new project is introduced that allows participants to get hands-on with all kinds of art. Sunday Open Studio is from 1 to 4 p.m. weekly and for more information please visit www.tworiversgallery.ca.
For photographers, the Prince George Photographic Society meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at the First Baptist Church, on the corner of Fifth and Harper. Meetings start at 7 p.m. and visitors are welcome. The meetings cover all forms of photography, including prints, slides and digital technology. There are opportunities to participate in photo competitions and field trips as well. Members range from beginners to professionals, so there is definitely room for all local photophiles!
If you are interested in the intersection of heritage and the literary, come on out to Books and Company on Third Avenue on Friday for the launch of the latest edition of Street Names of Prince George: Our History published by the Canadian Federation Of University Women-Prince George. The book chronicles the history of Prince George by presenting the stories behind the streets and other locations found here, and it is certainly a unique way to get to know our municipal history.
And lastly, if you are looking for something really different and unique for your children on the upcoming Pro-D Day on Jan. 30, check out the Studio 2880 Arts Day Camp, featuring their celebrated baking program for kids. Participants in the program will engage in both visual arts and baking activities that day, all reflecting a Valentine's Day theme. For more information please visit www.studio2880.com.
Perhaps if you have a different creative interest or just need some suggestions to fit your personal preferences, please feel free to call Studio 2880 at 250-563-2880 or stop by Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. We have guilds and groups offering classes in weaving, quilting, woodturning and much more, and all are always looking to welcome new members and participants.
Enjoy a great near year in 2017 full of creativity and expression!
