Lifelong Learning
Creative Aging ‘s Senior Studio offers lifelong learning through the arts in multi-session workshops. Lead by talented local artists and institutions, these courses create new opportunities to access participatory, multi-session, art-making opportunities. Creating enhances seniors’ sense of control and empowerment, offers social engagement, enhances physical and mental functioning, and improves attitude.
Summer 2019 Courses:
Beginner Dulcimer Class--Master Instructor Lee Cagle
FREE beginner dulcimer class! Dulcimers provided, or bring you own. Master instructor Lee Cagle leads two beginner courses this summer at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library, 3030 Poplar Ave., Memphis, TN.
Sculpture Courses at The Dixon Gallery & Gardens
Join other seniors in learning unique forms of sculpture! Classes cost $25 for a 4 week series, and include all of your supplies. Both sessions are for beginners; in the July session, students will sculpt an animal with paper materials, while in the August session, students will create a garden sculpture with fabric materials. Classes will be held at the Dixon Gallery & Gardnes, Farnsworth Education Wing, 4339 Park Ave., Memphis, TN.
Senior Studio Course Catelog
Senior Studio workshops are taught in public locations and in senior communities. Courses are scheduled upon the mutual agreement of the location and the instructor. Program length, number of participants, and cost varies. Basic course descriptions are below. Limited scholarship funds are available. Contact Mia Henley to schedule your course!
Creative Journaling: Keeping an Artist’s Sketchbook
Instructor: Jimpsie Ayers
During this 6-week course, students develop an artist’s sketchbook, learning techniques including photo manipulation and alteration, collage, calligraphy, printmaking and image transference. Maximum 10 individuals.
Abstract Acrylic Painting
Instructor: Judith Weintraub
This 6-week painting course offers students opportunities for fun, outside the box creativity using color, play and movement. Maximum 10 individuals.
Pottery Painting
Instructor: Adam Loeffel
In this 6-week course, participants paint ceramic pieces, exploring aspects of the pottery making process including color theory and principles of design; application processes; and how paints and glazes work together to create different effects, patterns and colors. Maximum 30 participants.
Modern Day Variety
Instructor: The Orpheum Theatre Group in partnership with the University of Memphis and members of the Orpheum STAR Council
In this 8-week course (meets twice a week), participants explore aspects of acting, improvisation and comedy; vocals and performance; and dance and movement. Maximum 12 people.
Dance for Seniors
Instructor: Kristen Lucas
Engage your mind, body and spirit in a truly fun experience. Students will learn a variety of dance styles and fundamentals, creating opportunities for skill mastery and creative self-expression.
Rigid Heddle Weaving or Inkle Loom Weaving
Instructor: Felicitas Sloves
In this 6-week course, participants learn to prepare a loom (warp) and materials for weaving, weave a project, and create a finished product either by sewing, mounting, or framing their work. Maximum 8 to 10 individuals.
Dulcimer Instruction
Instructor: Lee Cagle
In this 6-week course, students learn basic dulcimer playing skills from acclaimed dulcimer artist Lee Cagle. Maximum 8 students. Instruments provided.
Development of American Music
Instructor: Christian Stanfield
Learn the history of American music genres and be able to recognize their characteristics by ear. This 4 to 6 week course explores music from 1900 to 1960, including Ragtime, the Blues, Jazz, Big Band, Swing, Country Rock & Roll, Soul, and others. Up to 20 participants.
Storytelling Workshop
Instructor: Elaine Blanchard
Learn to tell a good story with renowned storyteller Elaine Blanchard. In this 6-week course, participants learn various components of storytelling. Maximum 12 participants.
Writing the Marvelous Real: Stories of the Imagination
Instructor: Sheree Renee Thomas
In this 6-week course (meets twice a week) students explore magical realism—taking ordinary people and places and merging them with the extraordinary—to develop their own marvelous tales. Come prepared to read, discuss and write! Maximum 12 students.