“Days are getting shorter but the Villages Folk School is in full swing”

     Two trips around the Villages of Van Buren County can take all day. That is, if you stop to listen in on one or two of the folk school classes. There is always something to learn and when it is being taught by a gifted artist the whole process is a delightful experience. In finding an art subject that fulfills a desire you have always kept inside, I think you will agree with me when I say, “Doing is so much better than watching!” Now, with the help of our instructors, artists who are inspired by the very land they have chosen to make their home, you can make it a reality. We have a treasure in Van Buren County that has not only attracted the artists but has offered them a palette for their work and livelihood. Going about their trade on a daily basis has spawned a culture that lives the arts here in Van Buren County, Iowa.

     The benefit to those who come from outside our county to take a class at the Villages Folk School is twofold. They experience not only the beauty and serenity of this Des Moines River valley, but they connect with their inner self as they create a newfound art form under the instruction of a folk school artist.

     Those of us who live here have but to journey outside of our county to soon realize what we have in Van Buren County. Living here is wonderful, as I think we all agree. What we haven’t all realized is that getting in touch with our creative side through the arts and then living it here in the villages opens our eyes in so many areas. That goes for young and old alike. Allow yourself to experience the Villages Folk School and encourage your children to do so. The arts and being creative will spill over into every aspect of your life. It is a thrill that keeps getting better and better.

     Come join us for one of our exciting classes. Call our office at 319-592-3700 or go online to www.villagesfolkschool.com and register for your class. You will find the classes and their times on our calendar.

     We invite you to help us grow by becoming a “Friend of the Villages Folk School”. The sponsorship information is listed for you on our website and a secure PayPal site is available for your convenience.

     Here is a list of our upcoming classes: Still Life in Soft Pastels, Nov. 6; Chair Caning with Fiber Rush Weave, Nov 13; Fried Fiction Workshop, Nov 13-14; Container Candles, Nov 27.

     It’s not too late to register for one of our many classes. Then get ready for the thrill of a lifetime as you live the arts with one of our artist instructors.