As the summer closes and the cooler months begin to set in, Orion Township residents begin to seek indoor activities to keep their hands busy and their minds sharp. ?
Many look to the Orion Art Center (OAC) for the creative outlet needed because they have many ways to teach you about art and to make good use of the time you’ll soon be spending indoors.
Consisting of about a dozen students, OAC classes typically run for two hours starting at a cost of $10 per student. ‘Some classes are geared for the homeschooled child, while others are tailored for Boy Scouts seeking badges.
Whatever your artistic leanings’whether you prefer to work with clay, cotton, or watercolors’the OAC can create a custom-made a class for you.
For example, on October 27, the OAC will hold a class called Halloween Collage for children five years and older. ‘After reading a spooky book, students will create a Halloween scene made from shredded materials. ‘For children eight to twelve, the October 27 offering is to make a three-dimensional model of a haunted house.
For those wanting to learn the basics of drawing such as composition and shading, the OAC has a class for older kids on Wednesday evenings from 4:30 to 5:50 p.m. ‘Those who wish to give handmade gifts for Christmas this year will have their questions answered at the Holiday Gifts class starting on December 4.
Adult classes for every skill level are also available at OAC. ‘On October 4 and 18, the OAC offers a two-hour painting challenge. ‘Beginning with what you already know about composition and painting, the instructors guarantee students will leave the class with a completed work of art.
Other topics for adult classes include inking techniques, acrylic mixing, needle felting, and a workshop on creating the illusion of perspective.
In addition to classes, the OAC also hosts art exhibitions in its 115 S. Anderson St. studios. ‘So when you’re not wrapped up in your own art, come be enraptured by the art of others. ?
The OAC is seeking artisans to display their work at the 6th annual Portrait and Pottery Show. ‘To be held from November 7-December 12, the OAC will accept entries November 1-3. ‘Artists can enter as many as three pieces of original art not previously entered in an OAC show. ‘Prizes totaling $500 will be awarded to the best works entered.
Instead of suffering through cabin fever this winter, check out the opportunities at the Orion Art Center. ?’For more information on the OAC classes, contact Lauren Dinneweth at (248) 693-4986 or visit them on the web at www.orionartcenter.org.