If you are looking for some unique ways to light up the holidays, let the Art League of Ocean City help. Whether a little jolt of color and art in your own life might be just the thing to brighten up the longer nights and shorter days ahead or you want to add some sparkle or enrichment to the lives of others, the Art League at the OC Center for the Arts has you covered. And you don’t need to be a member to join in on any of the fun.
Here are a few ideas to get you started. But plan early so these artistic treats will be ready in plenty of time for your special holiday celebration or gift-giving get-together. And why not indulge in some creativity with a group of friends or colleagues at special group rates or in a private group session? It’s as easy as a call-in to the Arts Center – put the “art” in Party. What could be merrier?
A two-part Dichroic Glass Jewelry Workshop with Fay Kempton is being offered on two Thursdays, Nov. 13 and Nov. 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Learn about the “bling” in glass jewelry and create and design your own wearable art. You may make three pendants and two pairs of earrings, or trade to make other items. Two sessions – Class one: cut and glue the glass. Class two: assemble the fired pieces with gold- and silver-plate findings. All materials and tools are provided. $40 members, $50 non-members plus $35 materials fee payable to instructor.
Enjoy an adult Pasta and Pottery evening with a delicious pasta dinner provided by a local restaurant with complimentary wine and then make your own pasta bowl, holiday house or celebratory creation of your choice out of clay. Ceramics Director Eric Hertz and helpers can help shape your vision. Sessions on Wednesdays, Nov. 19 and Dec. 17 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. You will be able to complete the project in one session. No experience needed. Must be 21 to be served wine. Fee includes pasta dinner, clay, firing and all supplies. $50 members, $55 non-members.
The increasingly popular adult Brushes and Bubbly program is adding an encore session this month on Thursday, Nov. 20 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Back by popular demand, the November painting will be a winter scene with a forest of evergreen trees covered in snow – perfect for the upcoming holiday season. The December session takes place on Wednesday, Dec. 10 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. No experience is needed to participate in these fun evenings of painting with friends. Canvases, paints, brushes, cups, music and artist guidance with Kathi Stevens is provided. Complete a work of art in one night. Ages 21 and over. Bring your own beverage and snack. $36 members, $40 non-members.
Kids Pizza and Pottery evenings are always a big hit and the young ones can have fun in a safe group setting under the direction of Eric Hertz and helpers while creating something lasting in clay for themselves or for gift-giving. A movie is shown and pizza and soft drinks are provided making for a perfect kid-friendly event. Next sessions are Friday, Nov.21 and Dec. 19 from 5:30 to 7:30p.m. All clay, materials, glazing and firing included. $30 members, $38 non-members.
Do something fun with the whole family and participate in Family Clay Day with the Arts Center’s resident Ceramics Director Eric Hertzon Saturday, Dec. 20 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Parents and their children can spend the afternoon together creating family memories along with unique holiday ornaments – all completed in one afternoon. Allow at least two weeks for glazing and firing before ornaments will be ready to take home. All clay, materials, glazing and firing included in the cost. All ages are welcome to participate, however children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. $25 members, $30 non-members.
And if creating yourself is not your thing, the Art League’s gift shop is being beautifully and continually stocked with one-of-a-kind artistic creations – jewelry, ceramics, paintings, scarves, glass ornaments, cards – ready for instant purchase – all you need do is add a bow and a holiday greeting.
To sign up for any of these sessions or for more information about any of the ongoing programs and special events offered at the OC Center for the Arts, contact the Art League at 410-524-9433 or visit www.ArtLeagueofOceanCity.org