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.










Monday, May 16, 2011

“Forty students enjoy a day at the Villages Folk School”

 



   The weather is often unpredictable and last week was no exception as 40 homeschool students took part in a day at the folk school that included rug weaving, blacksmithing, pottery, natural dies, the artifact museum and the Mason house. Despite the 41 degree weather the students and their parents enjoyed the chance to learn from each of the teachers as they demonstrated their artistic talents. The natural dies class gave them the opportunity to try their hand at painting a t-shirt with dies made from native plants. A great day was had by all; including the teachers who love to share the arts with young people.

     On Saturday Betty Printy had another one of her popular Raku pottery classes. The beauty of this class is the instant gratification since the pottery piece is completed and ready to take home at the end of the day. Many students have returned several times to enjoy the Raku process. It is one that never grows old and the finished product is always unique and something new to display at home or give for a gift.

     We invite each of you to come take a class at the Villages Folk School and see for yourself the joy of working one on one with a gifted artist. Our instructors will make the experience one that you will not only enjoy, but come away feeling confident in the process. Once you have developed your own creative style you are on your way to a lifetime of fun with the arts.

     You may register for a class by going to our website at www.villagesfolkschool.com or calling our office at 319-592-3700. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or to suggest at class subject that you would like to participate in. We are constantly looking for new instructors and subjects. If you are interested in being a teacher at the folk school just call us and schedule a time to discuss the opportunity.

Villages Folk School class schedule for May:

Blacksmithing (Tong Making), 14-15 May; Chair Caning with Fiber Rush Weave, 14 May; Portrait Workshop in Pastel & Oil, 14-15 May; Spring and Fall Birdwatching, 21 May; Painting the Landscape, 28 May.

     Go to www.villagesfolkschool.com and register today. We look forward to seeing you in one of our upcoming classes.
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