"A Quiet Weekend at the Villages Folk School"

     This last weekend I found myself thinking of a leisurely drive across Van Buren County to visit another folk school class. But this would be a weekend off for our instructors and the students. There is something to be said for a day of rest, but I missed the experience that always leaves me wanting more. The thrill of walking into a folk school class and watching as the instructors share what has taken them years to develop. It always seems effortless but I know, from my experience, it is not. They just make it appear that way. This is what makes our classes so amazing! I can stand in front of a landscape painting that is so real I feel as if I am looking through a window. But I wouldn’t know where to start to achieve that end result. When I see the process broken down into simple steps, I find myself wanting to run to the store, buy some artist supplies and start painting!

      You can experience this as I have by joining one of our artist instructors for a fun-filled day learning something you have always wanted to try. I invite you to register for one of our classes by calling the Villages Folk School office at 319-592-3700. Gloria will be happy to answer any questions you might have regarding your class choice. Visit our website at www.villagesfolkschool.com to find a list of classes and more information that will help you with your decision. Registering for a class may also be done with our website form. Simply download the registration form, fill it out and mail it to our office at PO Box 51, Bonaparte, Iowa 52620.

     June and July are packed full of interesting classes with something for everyone. For some of you who may not have access to the internet here is a brief list of some upcoming classes:


Creative Writing—Intro to Publishing by Adam Whitlatch

Sculpture Portrait in Three Dimension by Chris Bennett

Raku Pottery by Betty Printy

Chair Caning with Fiber Rush Weave by Verne & Doris Ramsey

Buttons & Bows Card Making by Debra Herrick

Folk Hymnody of the Old Singing Schools of America by Stephen Conte & Prairie Harmony

Bonaparte Pottery Experience by Marilyn Thomas

Melon Basket Weaving by Therese Cummisky

Barn Quilt Painting by Carolyn Edwards

Blacksmithing by Bill Printy & Mark Heisdorffer


     Bring the family and come enjoy a day or a weekend with us at the Villages Folk School. Call today to reserve your class at 319-592-3700. Capture the experience of Living the Arts here in Van Buren County and find yourself wanting more!