Within the close-knit fiber of the Villages of Van Buren County lies a culture that brings the arts to life. For those of us who live here it may not be as obvious, but for those who journey to the lush hardwoods and twisting river valley of Van Buren County, Iowa it leaves a lingering presence and peacefulness experienced only by thoughts of years gone by.


Out of this culture has grown such artists as Wendell Mohr and many with such gifts and talents have chosen to make their homes amongst this peace and tranquility.


The Villages Folk School, with its campus spread throughout the valley like splotches of paint on an artist's palette, offers
others a chance to capture, if only for a brief moment in time,


the joy of experiencing the arts in this way.










Sunday, February 14, 2010

We're Adding Classes! Don't Miss Out!!

Villages Folk School / Living the Arts

February 14, 2010




     Living the Arts is not just about the artists themselves. It is about an opportunity to bring to life something that has been hidden within you for years. The folk and traditional arts have been passed down for years from our ancestors and many of us have never tapped into that gift that might be just waiting to be expressed.

     Have you ever looked at a painting or perhaps a hand-thrown pottery bowl and thought to yourself, “If I could only do something like that!” Well, maybe you can. Start by registering for a class at the Villages Folk School and join one of our artists as he or she guides you through the basic steps. Once you have learned that and begin to express yourself through this newfound art form you may surprise yourself.

     What I find unique and wonderful about the Villages of Van Buren County, Iowa is that you can forget the distraction and clutter of the fast-paced world and enjoy the serenity of this peaceful river valley. It’s like
going back in time. You can relax, forget your hectic schedule, and allow yourself to become completely engrossed in something you’ve been hesitant to try for years.

     Our classes schedule is being added to weekly. Here are some of the upcoming classes:

Beginning Pottery – (5 sessions Feb 19th through March 5th),

Intermediate Wheel Throwing – (Feb 20th)

Still Life in Soft Pastels – (Feb 27th)

Beginning Knitting – (Feb 27th)

Artisan Bread Proofing Basket – (Feb 27th)

A Twist in Time Spinning I & II – (March 25th & 26th)

Beginning Knitting – (March 27th)

Be a Good Egg (with Natural Dyes) – (March 27th)

Hand Piercing, Appliqué & Quilting – (March 27th, 28th)

Scrimshaw for Flatlanders – (March 27th, 28th)

Blacksmithing: Tool Making – (Apr 3rd)

Container Candles – (Apr 3rd)



     Stir the artist within and come join us in the Villages for an experience of a lifetime. To register for classes or to find out more about our school go to: www.villagesfolkschool.com. If you would like to contact us our email address is: villagesfolkschool@gmail.com or call our office at 319-592-3700. Our office hours are noon – 4 p.m. Tuesday – Friday.

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