The Five Points Center for Active Adults in Raleigh is kicking off the new year with a splash of color, and no, I'm not just talking about the confetti from the bygone festive season. For those with a creative itch to scratch, the center has launched a series of art classes focused on techniques in watercolor and calligraphy, as revealed in a schedule published on the City of Raleigh's website.
Starting January 13, the "Watercolor" course promises to bring clarity to the chaos of brushes and paint through the direction of an experienced instructor. The class plans to tackle the gritty details of watercolor art—such as texture, value, and color wheel mastery. Over six weeks, attendees are expected to bridge the gap from imitation to innovation, applying their newfound skills to create original artwork. Classes are set for Tuesdays, between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., and come with a reasonable price tag—$32 for residents and $47 for non-residents.
Let's not forget about that timeless elegance of ink on paper. Calligraphy enthusiasts can look forward to once-a-month sessions starting January 14, where instructor Linda Torrena aims to teach the fine art of beautiful lettering. While grappling with brush strokes might not be everyone's idea of a Wednesday well spent, those with a penchant for pinmanship are likely to find themselves in good company. This class is also designed for adults and costs just $29 for a four-month stretch. As reported on the city's official website.
For anyone feeling a bit more advanced in their watery artistic journey, "Continuing Watercolor" offers to further dunk attendees into the depths of color theory and brush technique. This is the class to refine those skills picked up in the basic sessions or elsewhere. The course runs on Thursdays, from January 15 to February 12, at the same time as the other classes. The center requires that you have some experience before you dive into this advanced class—the cost mirrors the beginner class.
As is pretty much the standard anywhere these days, you have to bring your own supplies to any of these classes—no sharing of brushes or palette knives in these COVID-conscious times. For more information on necessary art supplies, check out their online list or ask at the Five Points front desk, because apparently, they still do things the old-fashioned way too. And if you're looking to register, do that through RecLink like a digital native.
