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.










Thursday, July 15, 2010

"Folk School weekend at the Lee County Fair"

     Last week was all about sharing the folk school experience with visitors at the Lee County Fair in Donnellson. Our artist instructors gave demonstrations in the folk school booth each day of the fair. Meg King demonstrated the art of knitting on Wednesday evening. She would be happy to teach you the technique and would have you knitting gifts for your loved ones before you know it! It isn’t as difficult as you might think.

     Two young people volunteered to model for Chris Bennett on Thursday as he sculpted their likenesses in clay. It looks so easy when Chris is at work but I know it is the result of years of study; working to perfect his artistry, and an incredible talent. He has taught workshops throughout the Midwest for thirty years. His works which include 50 public commissions and numerous private commissions are displayed throughout Iowa. Maybe you have a desire to become a sculptor. If so, register for the next “Sculpture Portrait in Three Dimension” class and join Chris Bennett for an exciting weekend in the studio.

     Friday was Senior Citizen Day at the fair so Vern and Doris Ramsey demonstrated the art of chair caning. Maybe you have an old chair that has been in your family for years but the cane in the seat has rotted through. Not a problem!!! Vern can teach you how to restore that chair to its original condition so that your family can enjoy it for years to come. His class will provide you with the skills needed for that project. Two days with Vern and your chair will be good as new.

     The Villages Folk School has many exciting classes that will allow you to experience the folk and traditional arts in a classroom setting with a skilled artist instructor. This hands-on class setting will provide you with the one-on-one instructor time needed to assure a quality learning experience. It is our desire at the folk school to provide this opportunity to all who seek a fulfilling experience in the arts. Come join us at one of our classes and start on your journey in the creative arts. Call our school at 319-592-3700 to learn more or go to our website at www.villagesfolkschool.com. We look forward to your call.

     Check out the coming classes and find that date that works for you. There are classes being offered each month. We hope to see you soon.

     Come visit our booth at the Van Buren County Fair on Wednesday July 14, 2010 through Monday July 19, 2010.

See you there!

No comments:

Post a Comment