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.










Saturday, April 17, 2010

"Preparation for an exciting group of classes"

     The work continues at the Villages Folk School office to set everything in motion for the exciting group of classes planned for the end of April and the beginning of May. The varied classes will provide something that appeals to everyone. Here is the line-up for this month: On April 24th we offer a class in Melon Basket Weaving and a class in Organic Gardening. The gardening class will be the first of a series of three which will take you through the soil preparation, planting, weed and pest control, and finally putting the garden to rest at the end of the season. Our instructor is a certified organic gardener so you won’t want to miss this opportunity.

     Tuesday, April 27th will be a thrill for anyone who likes to sing. A special evening has been planned at the Historic Presbyterian Church in Bentonsport. This evening will be led by the group Prairie Harmony of southeastern Iowa. You will be joining in with this group of instructors to share an evening of shape note singing. Sing early American hymns, anthems, and fugues. If you just want to come enjoy the sound in this beautiful acoustically designed building you are welcome to join us.

     May 1st has an awesome agenda that promises to be a delightful weekend. You may enjoy classes in Raku Pottery, Hand Piecing, Appliqué, and Quilting, the Bonaparte Pottery Experience that will take you back to 1860’s as you discover 150 year old molds that were originally used in the old pottery building. Still Life in Soft Pastels, Chair Caning with Flat Reed Splits, and Story Telling for all Occasions. These classes will be held in various locations around Van Buren County so be sure to check with the Villages Folk School office for times and locations. Gloria will be happy to assist you with your registration and any questions you might have regarding the classes. Our office hours are Tuesday through Friday, 12 noon until 4 p.m. You may call us at 319-592-3660. The website at www.villagesfolkschool.com will also provide you with class descriptions, bio’s so that you may learn more about our instructors and a complete listing of dates the various classes are offered. Don’t forget to check out our Blog! Here is a complete photo slideshow that will give you a better understanding of the quality, hands-on atmosphere in our many classes. Simply click on the link at the bottom of our web page.

     We are always looking for new instructors who want to share their artist skills with others. Please contact our office for an interview.

     Future planning in the works for 2011: Join us on September 23-25, 2011 for the Villages Folk School Writer’s Conference featuring some of the top authors, agents and editors in their field! Watch our website for more details.

     The Villages Folk School is here to offer each of you an opportunity to share in a folk or traditional art form that takes you back to earlier times. Our classes are designed so that you may experience firsthand the many time honored professions of our forefathers. You may spend the day enjoying the peaceful surroundings of our many classrooms throughout the county or taking a needed break from you busy life to just enjoy something for yourself. Whatever it is, we invite you to share these moments with us here at the folk school. Pick a class in something you have always wanted to do, register online at our website or call the Villages Folk School office at 319-592-3660.

     This time why not make it all about you! Enjoy the experience of Living the Arts at the Villages Folk School. You’ll be glad you did!

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