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Complete monthly schedules and costs can be found in the current Newsletter

DESCRIPTION ARCHIVE
DROP-IN

CENTERPIECE COMMITTEE:
Phyllis Moore directs this committee and welcomes new volunteers. Phyllis has great flair for coming up with unique ideas for centerpieces. She needs many willing hands to help make her ideas come to fruition! No experience is necessary, just a willingness to pitch in and help. We create centerpieces for parties, speakers and any special events that are occurring that month.

CRAFTING WITH STYLE:
This group is for individuals who enjoy making and creating handmade items for homebound seniors and packaging for use by the Mary Elizabeth Gift Shoppe. You may work on your own projects as well. Leader, Carol Anne McClellan, is looking for volunteers to plan projects.

INDEPENDENT POTTERS CLUB (THE IPC OF OPC):
If you'd like the chance to sharpen your throwing skills, then this newly formed drop-in is the perfect opportunity. Participants must have taken one six week class on the wheel prior to dropping in. This is a good chance to gain more confidence and expertise in this exciting craft.

KNITTIN' KITTENS:
Marilyn Crozier is our group leader. Come to OPC, make new friends, get re-acquainted with old ones and have a great time.  If you would like to learn to knit or crochet, Marilyn will help you as well as all the other members of this group. This is also an opportunity to share ideas and patterns.  

KNIT AND CROCHET GROUP:  
Judith Nevel and Muriel Machin are the excited and talented leaders! What is better than learning something new and making great friends,and enjoying coffee and a sweet roll? Currently making items for the "Timeless Collection" available from the Mary Elizabeth Gift Shoppe. Beginners and experienced knitters and crocheters are welcome!  

LAPIDARY AND SILVERSMITH WORKSHOP:  
If you have some lapidary experience, you are welcome to drop in and craft a beautiful gemstone of your choice. A variety of gemstone materials are available at low costs, including tiger-eye, agate and obsidian.  Of course, you can bring your own gemstone material if you wish. All other tools, supplies and lapidary machines are provided.  If your preference is working with silver, you can come during the same time frame and make a silver pendant or ring mountings for your finished gemstones. A variety of designs.and plans are on hand to help you select your choice. A supply of silver sheet and wire are also on hand and available at cost. Limited silver soldering experience is needed. Several qualified silver workers are on hand to offer help. Interested newcomers are welcome to visit the group to see the unique jewelry being designed in this workshop.

EVENING LAPIDARY AND SILVERSMITH WORKSHOP:
If you can't make it during the day or you want twice the fun and more time to work on your jewelry projects, then you're in luck! We are offering another drop-in Lapidary and Silversmith Workshop. Tom Hanson and Ed Burns will lead this class. See above article for details - same guidelines apply to this class. .
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MINIATURE CLUB:
Has miniature making always fascinated you?  Have you wondered how they make all those little intricate things with so much detail?  Each meeting consists of crafting something wonderful to be used in a doll house or shadow box. This is a small group, so don’t feel intimidated. We love to welcome new people into the group. We are planning our projects for 2008.

OPEN ART:
The Art Studio will be open several afternoons for students who need extra time on a project.

QUILTING CIRCLE:
Please join Yolanda Webb and all of her "Quilting buddies" for a morning of hand quilting, socializing, laughter and great snacks! This group makes a lot of things for the Mary Elizabeth Gift Shoppe. Beginners can learn this wonderful old art and the more experienced quilter can share their talent and experience.

WOODCARVERS:
Adrian Hulverson is the leader.  This group is for the beginner right up to the advanced. Stop by on a Friday and see what goes on. Remember, everyone is a beginner at some point! Adrian has some supplies to get you started.  This is a wonderful old art that is timeless and beautiful. What great heirlooms to pass on to loved ones.

DAY AND EVENING CLASSES

'ARTCETTERA' - DISCUSSIONS ON ART:
Our good friend, Pablo Davis, will kick-off this new series for the Art Department. (Periodically we are meeting for talks on a variety of topics presented by impassioned artists.) His discussion is titled "Humanism in Art".

ALL KINDS OF ART CLASS: 
Work in any medium of your choice under the guidance of a qualified teacher who is an expert in drawing, acrylic, oil, watercolor, pen & ink, figure, and perspective. Time set aside for student critiquing as well. Intermediate to advanced level students please.
Instructor: Carlos Vasquez

BEADED AMULET PURSE: 
This is a small, delicate purse in a design called moonbow in shades of blue. It is made of Japanese delica beads and tiny metal stars. Margaret Shepard will teach the brick stitch, two-needle peyote and ladder stitch techniques.

BEAUTIFUL BOWS CLASS: 
Learn to make bows with professional flair. Carolyn Gross and Peggy Foster will show you how to embellish Easter Baskets and Spring wreaths. Wire-edged ribbon is required.

CALLIGRAPHY - BEG/INT: 
Come learn the art of beautiful handwriting. Beginners work step by step. Intermediates bring in a project and materials you need. Ask for supply list when you register.

Instructor: Faye Placinski

COASTER CALENDAR CLASS: 
Join Caroline Morgan for another stamping class. Make a calendar using chipboard coasters, decorative paper, ribbon and stamped images. Sign up early so supplies may be assembled.

CREATIVE CAKE STANDS: 
Make one for your next special occasion. A material fee is payable to your instructors who provide materials and chic, unique items to embellish with. No experience necessary.

Instructors: Carolyn Gross & Cherie Hartwick

DECORATIVE TILE CLASS: 
Caroline Morgan will teach you to make decorative, stamped tiles as a wonderful gift or keepsake for your home. You will complete two 6x6 tiles using words and stamped images. Showcase next to the computer room has samples.

GARDEN GAZING BALL: 
Make a glimmering garden gazing ball from an old bowling ball and scraps of glass, mirrors and found objects. You will learn techniques of mosaic tiling with glass. This will set your garden apart from all the rest. All supplies including bowling ball are provided. If you wish to add any personal found objects such as buttons, glass gems, memorabilia, bring them. They must be weatherproof.

GARDENING W/VIRGINIA - START A DAHLIA PLANT: 
Dahlias bloom all summer long. Learn from Master Gardener, Virginia Howcroft how to plant your own bulbs and the best way to grow them. There will be a variety of bulbs to choose from.

GARDENING W/VIRGINIA - WINTER SOWING 
Learn easy methods of sowing seeds in containers in mid-winter and care for them outside before planting into a container or garden come spring. Master Gardener, Virginia Howcroft will have vegetable and flower seeds available.

GLASS & CRYSTAL BEAD JEWELRY CLASS: 
You will have the choice of making either a bracelet or necklace or bookmark. Use pre-designed bead groupings. See display in showcase near computer room. A $10 material fee for bracelet or bookmark, $12 for necklace is payable to the instructor. You can make more than one, if time permits, for an additional cost per kit. .
Supplies: Needle nose pliers and jewelry crimper (if you have them), a light-colored piece of fleece, flannel or jersey material to work on, and eyeglasses (if you need them).

INTERIOR DESIGN I CLASS: 
Lauren Smith is an interior designer and certified interior refiner. She will introduce you to the basic principles and give you a design problem to solve. Instructor will review common decorating mistakes; review how to correct them; present introduction to floor plans; and rendering techniques. You will learn how to search for furnishings, art, accessories, lighting and window treatments. Look for samples in the showcase near the computer room. $10 material fee payable to instructor for some supplies (illustration board, fabric swatches, misc.)
Supplies: any mixed media for rendering i.e., watercolor, acrylics, small brushes, pencils, colored markers, extra-fine Sharpie marker

INTERIOR DESIGN I & II CLASS: 
In Design I , students will be given a design problem to solve which will culminate in a family room floor plan and a montage of furniture, fabrics and colors to accompany it. Pre-requisite for design II is previous design or drafting experience and/or completion of OPC Design I class. In Design II students will chose a room in their own home that they wish to re-design. There is a $10 material fee payable to instructor for illustration boards, fabric swatches and miscellaneous supplies. Ask for additional supply list when you register. Instructor: Lauren Smith

JAZZY JACKET: 
Bring in a sweatshirt and you will learn how to transform it into a stylish jacket with pockets and crochet trim. It is a perfect addition to your wardrobe. Ask for supply list at registration.

Instructor: Mary Lou Fisk

MAKE YOUR OWN WINE BASKET: 
Learn the art of basket weaving. This class is for beginners and experienced. You will complete a 5" x 10" x 8" basket that holds 2 bottles. It may be used as a tote as well.

PICTURE FRAMING AND MAT CUTTING CLASS: 
Learn to assemble frames and cut mats for all types of pictures, needlework and artwork. Bring one, any-size item to mat and frame. Tools are provided as well as sources for framing stock and mat board.
Instructor: Dave Kulka

SAUCER BIRDBATH CLASS:
Students will make a beautiful garden birdbath using mosaic techniques with scrap glass. Bring a 10" - 14" GLAZED saucer in the color of your choice. All other supplies are provided.
Instructor: Donna Schulert

SEWING W/VIRGINIA:
Make easy-sew place mats and matching napkins to compliment your home and holiday decor. Bring your machine or call 248-608-0253 to reserve one. Ask for supply list when you register. List will include fabric yardages and sewing notions to bring.

Instructor: Virginia Howcroft

SIMPLY TERRIFIC CARDS:
This month your instructor Caroline Morgan will be celebrating with theme cards appropriate to current month or season. New stamping techniques for 2008! Sample cards are in the showcase next to the computer room.

SIMPLY TERRIFIC SCRAPBOOK LAYOUTS:
Students will complete 4 - 12"x12" layout pages per class, 2 - Family, 2 - Thanksgiving, and 2 - Springtime and 2 - Friendship layouts. Bring theme related photos and adhesive. All other materials are supplied.

Instructor: Caroline Morgan

STAINED GLASS CLASS:
Learn how to create your own works of art with this beautiful transparent material! Beginning with a simple glass project, you will work with glass right away as you are simultaneously introduced to the materials and techniques of the craft. This class is open to all ability levels. Progressively more difficult projects can be undertaken as your level of skill develops.Your instructor, Donna Schulert, has been working with glass since 1993 and has her own glass studio at home. Please be prepared to purchase your own glass cutter, some chemicals, glass and copper foil once you have completed your first project and are signing up for additional classes and projects.
Supplies: Eye protection and gloves for beginners.

SWEDISH WEAVING:
Learn the techniques of this age-old craft. It is also known as huck weaving, using yarn instead of embroidery floss. Make afghans, pillows, placemats and more. First class: needles and instructions will be furnished. Practice material will be available as well as patterns for future projects. You will be required to get extra supplies for last two classes.
Instructor: Beth Ambrose

WOODSHOP SAFETY CLASS 
This is a one-night class for individuals who know how to run all the equipment that is available in the OPC wood shop. In order to use the woodshop everyone must be certified for OPC's insurance company.  This is mandatory in order to use our wood shop and we make absolutely no exceptions! Participants will be issued a Safety Card that will be available for pick-up 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.in the Art Department approximately one week after completion of the class.

DRAWING

ANIMAL ART SKETCHING/PAINTING CLASS: 
Now is your chance to learn the art of rendering animals and the techniques to bring them to life. Class designed for beginner and intermediate students. You can draw or paint in the medium of your choice.
Supplies: Pencils B, 2B 3B, 4B, HB and 4H; medium-size (or larger) drawing pad; kneaded eraser, pencil sharpener; other supplies for your chosen medium; picture(s) of animals you plan to render.

CARICATURE DRAWING: 
Caricatures are portraits that exaggerate thus distorting the features of a person while still creating an identifiable visual likeness. Whether insulting or complimentary, they are meant to be amusing and enjoyed. No experience necessary.
Instructor: Lou Phelps

LANDSCAPE DRAWING / INDEPENDENT ART CLASS 
Students will learn how to simplify a landscape starting with the horizon line and the basic shape of the landscape. If weather permits, some outdoor work may be done. Ask for supply list when you register. Independent students, please bring a landscape picture of your choice and your own selection of pencils and paints.
Instructor: Merri-Jo Towns

LIFE/FIGURE DRAWING CLASS 
Learn to draw the human figure using a variety of drawing media including pencil, vine charcoal and soft compressed charcoal. The focus will be on observation of the live, partially-clothed model; and developing drawing skills. Emphasis will be on light, shadow, value, form, line quality and perspective. This class is designed for the beginner through advanced. The advanced student can refine his skills. Your teacher, Carlos Vasquez, has 30+ years as a graphic design artist. If you are more advanced, you may render the figure in another media of choice.
Supplies for beginner: vine charcoal, soft compressed charcoal, drawing paper, pencils and a drawing board if you have one. Advanced student may bring media of choice.
Instructor: Carlos Vasquez

MULTI-MEDIA PORTRAITURE CLASS: 
Jan Sandison will teach you the anatomy and structure of portraiture; how to render the face (your choice of pencil, conte, charcoal or pastel); lighting tips. Work with live models.
Ask for supply list when registering.

OUTDOORS: 
Drawing from nature is a class for all levels. If you prefer to paint, we can accommodate that as well.You will be working in theCelebration of Life Garden at OPC. Bring appropriate supplies including drawing board or easel.
Instructor: Carlos Vasqez

PEN AND INK DRAWING CLASS: 
Carlos Vasquez, will teach you a variety of great techniques. Learn form, shading, texture and how to approach drawing still-life and landscapes. You will also learn to render wood, stone, flowers and trees etc. thus strengthening your drawing and painting. Drawing experience is helpful but beginners are welcome!
Supplies: Croquill pen (other pens are fine too),11x14 Strathmore Bristol smooth (100# or more), Paper pad designed for pen and ink, Pencil, Kneaded eraser and Straight-edge ruler.
Instructor: Carlos Vasquez

PERSPECTIVE DRAWING CLASS: 
This class is a 'must-take' for both perspective and drawing students.  Learn the basic principles of one and two-point perspective and how to draw objects so they aren't floating in space.  You will acquire skills to construct buildings so they look accurate besides gaining more confidence to tackle a wide variety of subject matter in your drawings and paintings. You will also be exposed to basic drawing skills including line, shading and composition.If you have taken this class once you may bring in a photo you would like to work-up as a final piece in whatever media you choose.
Supplies for beginners: 11''x14'' drawing pad, HB, B, 2B pencils, small pencil sharpener, triangle or ruler, kneaded eraser, drawing board if available; intermediate students supplies of choice
Instructor: Carlos Vasquez

STILL LIFE: 
A great class for beginners but all are welcome. Learn techniques by working from a variety of still-life set-ups. Choose your medium such as pencil, colored pencil, charcoal or pen and ink. Learn composition, perspective and values.
Instructor: Carlos Vasquez

WATERCOLOR COLORED PENCIL CLASS:
Learning about color and introduction of watercolor painting. Watercolor colored pencils work well with colored pencils to develop a wonderful picture. Paper supplied.
Supplies: Box of Prisma Colored Pencils and set of watercolor pencils
OR . .

INDEPENDENT ART CLASS: 
For students who have taken basic drawing and colored pencil and wish to work in a medium of their choice. Merri-Jo Towns will critique your work. Bring own supplies.

WATERCOLOR COLORED-PENCIL CLASS II:
A continuation of learning about watercolor colored pencil and learning techniques of watercolor painting. You are welcome even if you have missed the basic class.
Supplies: Box of Prisma Colored Pencils and set of watercolor pencils
OR . .

INDEPENDENT ART CLASS: 
For students who have taken basic drawing and colored pencil and wish to work in a medium of their choice. Instructor will critique your work. Bring own supplies.
Instructor: Merri-jo Towns

CLAY/POTTERY

POTTERY WHEEL/CLAY HANDBUILDING CLASS:
A new twist to our clay classes. Come and learn basic techniques for throwing pots on the wheel OR learn a variety of clay hand-building techniques. This class will accommodate beginner or intermediate students who are interested in either method to create beautiful pots, bowls, wall art, garden art, and tiles.
Instructor: Bill Lawson

POTTERY/WHEEL CLASS: WITH BILL LAWSON:
Bill Lawson is a Rochester Hills resident with 40 years of clay/pottery experience. Bill has a degree in Fine Arts from Wayne State and a Masters in urban planning. A variety of beautiful, and useful projects such as pots, bowls, wall art, garden ar gifts and tiles can be made in class. Your imagination is the limit. Clay work is great exercise for stiff and sore joints. This is a hands-on class and no experience is needed. 25 lbs. of clay is included in the cost of class and we have tools to get you started. No production work is allowed.

CLAY HAND-BUILDING:
Create beautiful one-of-a-kind clay pieces that friends and family will cherish! This class is for students from beginners to advanced. Your instructor, Carlos Vasquez, will cover coil and slab methods as well as a variety of design and texture techniques. In his session Carlos will also show interested students some sculptural techniques. You can learn to create jewelry and decorative pieces for your home. This is for hand-building only and no wheel work will be done in class. Classes fill up fast, so sign up early! Let your creative side flourish while having a great time! No production work is allowed. We accept only 7 students.

TECHNIQUES FOR LIDS & HANDLES:
This class is for students who are familiar with throwing pots on the wheel. Your instructor will teach you how to make a lid that fits and how to add handles to mugs, pots, pitchers or bowls.
Instructor: Bill Lawson

EXPRESSIVE:
You will be taught to approach painting from an abstract/expressionist position. Express a realistic subject as you see it. Explore line, shape, form and color to create a well-balanced composition. Learning this will improve any style of artwork you do. Ask for supply list when you register.
Instructor: Carlos Vasquez

OIL PAINTING/MULTIMEDIA CLASS:
This previously was an oil class but if you'd like to come and work in another medium we'd love to have you. Learn valuable tip to enhance your skill. All skill levels welcome.
Instructor: Jan Sandison

OIL PAINTING CLASS:
Create your own masterpiece with an instructor who has a Fine Arts degree from the Ringling School of Art in Sarasota, Florida. She enjoys painting pictures filled with light. Her favorite subject matter is old homes, porches filled with wicker furniture and scenes from her travels. You will learn balance, perspective, color, brush strokes, and other techniques in painting your masterpiece!
Supplies: Pencil, three 8x10 Canvas boards, Odorless turpentine, Brushes: 1/2" flat, #4 flat, #4 pointed, Subject matter of choice, Paint: sap green, cobalt blue, alizarin crimson, cad yellow light, payne's gray, burnt umber and white, Paper towels, Palette, Turpentine container
Instructor: Jan Sandison

VICTORIAN CLASSIC FIGURE/PORTRAIT WORKSHOP:
The object is to complete a work of art constructed around a figure (live model) and flowers to give it atmosphere. The class is outdoors on an intimate patio. It is a multimedia class requiring a standup easel and medium of your choice.

Instructors: Jan Sandison and Carlos Vasquez

WATERCOLOR CLASS:
Explore basic watercolor techniques in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Gives students of all ability levels a chance to enhance their skill. Demonstrations of shape and form, light and shade and how they are found in the landscape will be examined. Still life displays are provided.
Ask for a supply list when you register.

Instructor: Jan Sandison

WATERCOLOR CLASS - BEGINNERS:
The Instructor will help you to explore basic watercolor techniques. No prior experience necessary. If you have some knowledge of watercolor, this class also offers students the opportunity for continued improvement until you feel confident to move to the intermediate level. Demonstrations of shape and form, light and shade, and how they are found in the landscape will be examined. Still-life displays are provided.
Ask for supply list when you register.
Instructor: Pat Szura

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