Making the move from Washington State was the start of a new chapter in my life. This new chapter opened in the beautiful Des Moines River valley where the pace is much slower, but I have found that living the arts brings a level of excitement and newfound enthusiasm that provides a momentum perhaps even more driven than the fast paced Pacific Northwest. Life is good and experiencing it through the eyes and lives of people I’ve come to know and admire brings a deep satisfaction.
One has but to get in the car, go for a walk, ride the bike and there is always someone along the way of that journey who offers a moment for you to stop and enjoy a great conversation. It may be about the weather, perhaps something going on in their life, or a time for you to share a bit of yourself and what’s up in your life. Life here in the Villages of Van Buren County, Iowa is good and that is a direct result of not only the people here but the splendor of the landscape. It is apparent to me that this is why so many artists have chosen to make this their home. Maybe what started out as a dream soon became a reality for them as they were inspired by their surroundings and soon found their love for the arts a total way of life for them. However the process evolved it certainly has been influenced by this picturesque river valley and the people who live here.
It has been my privilege to work with many of the artists here at the Villages Folk School and to watch them as they not only create something beautiful but take the time to share their skills with the many students who come to their class. This is something you must experience for yourself. Go to our website at www.villagesfolkschool.com and browse through the number of classes being offered. Familiarize yourself with the class descriptions as well as the artist who teaches them. Find something that you are interested in and register for what I promise will be a life changing experience. If you are not comfortable with the computer information just call our folk school office at 319-592-3700 and ask Gloria for the information you desire. It is that simple and I know you will not be sorry you committed yourself to one of our classes.
Many of us are busy now that the Iowa State Fair is in full swing, but there are still classes coming up in which you may participate. On Saturday, August 21 is the Buttons and Bows Card Making class and Painting the Landscape. The Bonaparte Pottery Experience is August 21-22. August 28-29 is the Creative Writing-Intro to Publishing class. September 4 is Raku Pottery and September 4-5 is the Bonaparte Pottery Experience. Chair Caning with Flat Reed Splits is September 18 and Sculpture Portrait in Three Dimension is September 18-19. Pulp Play (Paper) & Journal Making is September 23-24; Beginning Blacksmithing is September 25-26; Beginning Hammered Dulcimer is September 25.
Come join the fun at the Villages Folk School and experience ‘living the arts’ with our many talented artist instructors here in the Villages of Van Buren County and see why it’s a good life.
No comments:
Post a Comment