Classes for Adults

TO REGISTER:

1) DROP IN OR CALL – Call the Library Arts Center office at 603-863-3040 or stop by during gallery hours (Tues-Fri. 11am-4pm, Sat. 10am-2pm) Your registration is complete when we have received your competed registration form, as well as payment for the class.
2) PRINT & MAIL a registration form with your check. Download the ADULT REGISTRATION FORM.
3) REGISTER ONLINE NOW by clicking the link below. 


PLEASE NOTE: If the class of your choice is full or canceled due to lack of enrollment, you will be notified and entitled to a full refund. Class tuition is due in full on or before the first day of the class session. Make-up classes will only be offered when the instructor is unable to teach his/her class.

Members of the Library Arts Center may subtract 10% from tuition prices of select classes, or can enter the code MEMBER when registering online to receive the discount.

Art Camp for Grown-ups!

Thursday Evenings, 6:30-8:30pm in the studio, beginning Jul. 13

New projects each week.

$12 per student, per session.

Why should kids have all the fun? This series is designed to get adults creating, regardless of experience or perceived creative ability; artists and complete novices alike will enjoy these sessions. Sign up for one, several, or the whole series as you see fit. Get messy, learn new techniques, and leave each session with finished art projects and the know how to make more at home. Sign up yourself, and make friends with other participants, register with friends and make a night of it, or even turn it into a date night!

CAMP NIGHTS 2024:

July 11Sustainable Spirals: Up-cycling with Kris Cairelli

From trash to treasure, create next level upcycled pieces from the junk drawer!  Create with up-cycled materials including magazine scraps, plastic shopping bags, cardboard and yarn to create unique spiraled baskets and funky picture frames. Go home with started projects and ideas for creativity at home with fewer trips to the craft store. 

July 18Pop-up Cards with Pam LaFountain

Go 3D in this fun session, create over the top pop -ups! Learn the tricks of the trade while creating your own over the top pop-up card in this class.  Leave with a finished card, and new skills to create more at home.

July 25Paint and Sip (21+) with Heidi Lorenz

This 21+ class will be a step by step gouache landscape painting accompanied by a glass of wine (provided).  Gouache is an opaque watercolor that is really fun to use.  The step-by-step nature will ensure that even the true beginners in the class will have great results, while everyone learns to use gouache paint in this fun and welcoming class.

Aug. 1English Paper Piecing Christmas Ornaments with Pam LaFountain

With the basics of thread, needle, paper, and fabric, create a gorgeous Christmas ornament.  Paper piecing may seem intimidating, but this class will break it down to make it accessible to beginner and intermediate participants.  Leave with a finished (or nearly finished) ornament, and the know how to make more while there is still plenty of time to sew more as gifts for holiday giving.

Aug. 8 – Painting Watercolor Flowers with Wax Resist with Patti Warren

Beginner painters, you are going to LOVE this!  Fun, low stakes, great results.
This is a fun painting class for the very beginner. Join in this fun and encouraging class where Patti will lead you through a lovely painting of seasonal flowers, step-by-step.  Have fun creating in the studio and leave with a beautiful finished art piece.

Aug. 15Water-based Silk Screen Prints with Kris Cairelli

Silkscreen on paper with all nontoxic materials you can easily use at home.  Bring a copy of your favorite image to use as a guide in this basic silkscreening session. We will use water based pigments, non-toxic materials and simple techniques to recreate our images artfully on paper.

Mixed Media Open Studio

Gouache Workshop

with instructor Peter Granucci

Saturday and Sunday, July 20 and 21, 9:00am-2:00pm, bring a bag lunch

Tuition:  $200

Class Location:  Peter Granucci’s studio in Gilsum NH

Gouache is a beautiful medium that more artists should consider having as a part of their “toolbox”. It is one of the oldest mediums and one of the most durable. It goes back to ancient Egypt, if not before. 

It is a bright and readable paint that is user friendly and inexpensive to use. There are no solvents or oils because it is water-based, so clean-up is effortless!  Many artists use it for finished pieces that can be indistinguishable from oil or, it can be used more like a watercolor, except that is opaque. However it is used, it has a high reflective quality that makes it very satisfying to look at.   It is also useful for doing quick studies to test out your ideas, since it dries almost immediately.  In this class you will learn the basic techniques of gouache and will be able to produce a painting.

A materials list will be provided, as well as studio address upon registration.

Mixed Media Open Studio

Landscape Painting in Watercolor

with instructor Robert J. O’Brien, AWS, NWS

Saturday July 27th, 9:30am-4:00pm, bring a bag lunch

Tuition $80

Library Arts Center Studio

This workshop will cover the basic principles of landscape painting in the watercolor medium, and will be open to all abilities with some watercolor experience suggested.  Students will learn glazing techniques, use of color, composition, the importance of value and creating texture through the use of dry brush technique. Painting light and shadow will be introduced and some drawing experience is recommended. A critique and class discussion will be held at the end of the session.  *A materials list will be posted shortly.

Coffee and Collage

with instructor Christie Scott
Sundays July 21, 28, August 4, 11:00am-2:00pm each session
$25 per session, or $60 for all three sessions.

*Sign up for all three, or choose the ones that work for you. 

Use code FRUIT when registering for all classes to receive the tuition discount.

Make collages based on the idea of the paint and sip.  Enjoy step by step instruction in a relaxed and welcoming environment.  Make a summer collage with paper you alter with paint and ink using splatter and squeegee technics.  Each week will focus on a different one of these projects.  Bring a cup of coffee or tea as well as a bag lunch, the rest will be provided for you.  This class is perfect for beginners through more seasoned collage artists.  

Collage theme by week:

July 21 – Carrots

July 28 – Pears

August 4 – Hydrangea

Letterpress for Beginners

Instructor: Ann Stout
Select Tuesdays, 10:00am-12:00pm  OR  1:00pm-3:00pm   

*evenings upon request. 

*max capacity of two students per class for our small letterpress studio.  Sign up individually, or with a friend.   **other times available by appointment (or special arrangement).  Please inquire.

Tuition, includes all materials:  $35 per person*  *Sign up two people for a session and receive a discount, $60 for two.  (Use discount code:  FRIEND)

Choose your own project.  Various options include: business cards, notecards, small poster style quotes, coasters etc. 

In this class you will learn the basics of letterpress, working in our small, but wonderfully equipped letterpress studio.  From setting your own type to using the printing press, you will complete a small project of your own creation in this beginner’s class with our resident letterpress artist, Ann Stout.

Plein Air Outdoor Adventure Painting

Outdoor Adventure Painting
An ‘En Plein Air’ Art Experience for All Seasons and Terrain

Guided and Coordinated by artist Heidi Lorenz
Upcoming Dates and Locations: 

Saturdays, once per month – 1:00-4:00pm 

Upcoming Sessions:

Next Session Sat. July 27 – Grzyszek’s Farm in Croydon, NH

Fee: $8/session for LAC members, $12 for non-members

This monthly drop-in class meets in a different inspiring location throughout the year to draw, paint, sketch or photograph nature in comradery with other outdoor art enthusiasts.  This inclusive and welcoming group is designed to engage artists at all levels & to consider the natural effects of light & its ever changing influences on our landscape. Careful consideration of comfort in your outdoor gear is important when creating art in the open air.  Feel free to bring a full plein air kit or for ease & simplicity bring a simple sketchbook with pencil & pen, or anything you like, whatever works in your favor. There will be locations that involve light hiking, which will be noted in the monthly location description. We will have complimentary hand warmers available to keep those fingers moving.  This drop-in series is an opportunity to create a fun community of artists, to be inspired, creative, adventurous, & to be amidst nature in all seasons throughout the year! 

**You can register and pay online in advance, or if needed Heidi can collect cash or check for the class upon arrival.

For any questions, or to ask to be added to the group contact list, please contact Heidi at heidi.libraryartscenter@gmail.com.

Sat. June 15 – Arthur Walsh’s Farm

Arthur Walsh’s Farm is a haven for artists. This property abuts the sugar river trail and river. There are outbuildings and a large barn and we have access to the house to warm our hands, get a drink and use the bathroom. Arthur has hosted artists previously and is a thoughtful host. One caveat is we don’t let his indoor cat out or his outdoor cat in!!! So please be mindful!

Directions from the Library Arts Center at  58 N Main St, Newport, NH 03773
-Head north toward Belknap Ave (315 ft)
-Turn right onto Belknap Ave (177 ft)
-Turn left at the 1st cross street onto N Main St (0.3 mi)
-Turn left onto Oak St (2.0 mi)
Destination: 507 Oak St, Newport, NH 03773

July 27 – Grzyszek’s Farm

John & Lynn Grzyszek’s Farm is yet another haven for artists & animals. This property has views of far off Kearsarge and across Croydon with open pastures.  There are outbuildings and a large barn and there is access to the house to warm our hands and to have a hot beverage, and use the bathroom. John & Lynn also have a barn with heated tack room if the cold is too much to bear. There are copious miniature donkeys to paint in the barn and two dogs on the farm and with vast big sky views.

Directions from the Library Arts Center at  58 N Main St, Newport, NH 03773
-Turn left out of the parking lot and head north on Rt 10/N Main Street
-Continue on NH-10 N Approx 5.1 mi
-Turn left onto Barton Rd
-Take first left onto Glidden Rd, continue to the end of road
-Turn right onto Pinnacle Rd, continue to the end of Pinnacle Rd
Destination: 253 Pinnacle Rd, Croydon, NH 03773

Sat. Aug. 10 – Maxfield Parrish Home in Plainfield, NH 

The current owner of the Maxfield Parrish House has graciously offered to host our group of painters to visit his studio & the grounds of the Maxfield Parrish home. *Amenities available when Airbnb is vacant

Directions from the Library Arts Center at  58 N Main St, Newport, NH 03773
-Take Belknap Ave out of the parking area
-Left onto Pine St
-Right onto Elm St to NH-11 W/New Hampshire Rte 103 W (3 min, 1.2 mi)
-Continue on NH-11 W/New Hampshire Rte 103 W.
-Take NH-12A N to Freeman Rd in Plainfield (33 min, 20.9 mi)
-Continue on Freeman Rd, destination first driveway on your right (2 min,  0.4 mi)
Destination: 58 Freeman Rd, Plainfield, NH 03781

Sat. Sept. 14 – St. Gaudens National Historic Site

139 St Gaudens Rd, Cornish, NH  03745
Coordinates: 43.499445, -72.3749256
This National Park for the Arts preserves the home & studio of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens (1848-1907). Enjoy the beauty of art & nature. The park & its partners continue the tradition of the Cornish Colony of artists. Unleash your creativity at this amazingly beautiful and inspiring location.
* Amenities available.   *Park entrance fee does apply. https://www.nps.gov/saga/index.htm 

Directions from the Library Arts Center at  58 N Main St, Newport, NH 03773
-Take Belknap Ave out of the parking area
-Left onto Pine St
-Right onto Elm St to NH-11 W/New Hampshire Rte 103 W (3 min, 1.2 mi)
-Continue on NH-11 W/New Hampshire Rte 103 W.
-Take NH-12A N to St Gaudens Rd in Cornish (30 min, 18.6 mi)
-Slight right onto St Gaudens Rd, Destination will be on the left (2 min, 0.6 mi)
Destination: Saint-Gaudens Nat’l Hist’l Pk, 139 St Gaudens Rd, Cornish, NH 03745

Plein Air Outdoor Adventure Painting

Plein Air Summer Series

Wednesday mornings in June, July and August | 9:30am-12:30pm

New outdoor painting locations each week!

$8 for members/$12 non-members.

Join our open studio group to paint at picturesque locations around the area en plein air this summer! The group will meet for Wednesday mornings in July & August.  Bring your own art supplies and work onpaint alongside a delightful and supportive group of artists. Facilitator Heidi Lorenz will paint alongside all, but is available for light guidance and instruction if desired. This welcoming and friendly drop-in style group is available to artists of all styles and abilities! Drop in–No pre-registration necessary.

Summer En Plein Air Series 2024

June 12th – Gunnison Lake (The “Goshen Ocean

Gunnison/Williamson Park – Rt 31, Goshen – The harbor is open to the public & there are amenities & shelter should we need it.   Amenities available.

June 19th – Moody Park

152 Maple Ave, Claremont, NH 03743   – Moody Park boasts 325 Acres, Hiking, Biking Trails, disc Golf Course, Picnic Areas, Tennis Courts, and Play Structures.

June 26 – The Eco Ag Center & Community Gardens

95 County Farm Rd., Unity, NH   This facility includes the Sullivan County Conservation District (SCCD) Community Garden, high tunnels, native pollinator gardens, outdoor classroom, fishing dock, & trail used for recreation & education.  Amenities available. https://www.sccdnh.org/local-agriculture

July 3 – Arthur Walsh’s Farm

507 Oak Street, Newport, NH – Arthur’s Farm is a haven for artists. This property abuts the sugar river. There are outbuildings and a large barn and we have access to the house to warm our hands, get a drink and use the bathroom. Arthur has hosted artists previously and is a thoughtful host. One caveat is we don’t let his indoor cat out or his outdoor cat in!!! So please be mindful!

July 10 –  Maxfield Parrish Home

Plainfield, NN – *Please email us for the address.  – The current owner of the Maxfield Parrish House has graciously offered our group to come visit the studio & the grounds of the Maxfield Parrish home. Amenities available.

July 19th – Ted/Kathy Niboli’s Farm

175 Schoolhouse Rd, Newport, NH – The Nibolis have the most spectacular farm & gardens along with chickens & a view of Mt. Sunapee.

July 24 – Amy Smith’s Gardens

71b Camel Hump Rd, Newport, NH – Our very own open studio artist Amy has invited us to her home to paint in her gardens. She has a proud display of flowers that will be just primed for painting by late July.

July 31 – JD Salinger’s Farm

Cornish, NH *Please send us an email for the address.  – The big beautiful barn called ‘Langwood Barn’ in Cornish (not too far from the Song Garden!)  There’s an outside privy of the exceptional kind behind the lilac bush. The street address is located about 500 ft south of the barn. The group should not go up the driveway, but continue on to the barn.  Parking is across the street from the barn & further up the hill from the parking area is a walk on Salinger’s trails to ‘the top of the world’ that guests can explore.

August 9  –  Sanctuary Dairy Farm & Ice Cream Stand

209 Rt 103, Sunapee 03782 – A family run farm & gathering place for all there where you can indulge in their farm fresh, homemade ice cream & more. Amenities available. https://www.icecreamkidbeck.com/

August 16th – Clark Lookout Trailhead

106-228 Davis Hill Rd, New London, NH 03257 – This is a trail rated as “easy” as it is less than 0.4 miles (one way) and climbs 100 feet. The lookout provides a view of Lake Sunapee and Mount Sunapee.

  • The Lookout Trail starts on Rt 103-A, across from the Park and Ride lot near Exit 12 on Rte. 89.
  • Heading up the trail, the first point of interest is the trail kiosk, which has information about the history of the trail and includes a bulletin board where notices and information are posted. Near it is the library box, where hikers can borrow or lend books when they visit. Turn left at the kiosk to continue up the trail. Further on is the four corner road intersection (turn right) which is the last turn before proceeding to the lookout

August 21 – New Acworth Cemetery

48 Hill Rd, Acworth, NH 03601 – Fritz Weatherbee tells the story of a body that was stolen on Halloween night 1853 from this cemetery. You can read the story below by clicking the link. The cemetery is quite scenic and I have painted there before long before I had heard this story.   Story of the Stolen Body

August 28th  –  Heidi’s Farm

700 Mill Village Rd, Goshen, NH 03752 – Come visit my farm & paint horses, cats, barns, tractors & more. Amenities available. Please park at the end of the driveway nearest the road so cars do not obstruct possible subjects for painting.

*Please stay tuned for possible sessions in September.

Basket-Making Workshops 

with artisan Ray Lagasse

Upcoming Sessions:

Sat. July 13th
Sat. Aug. 24th (outdoors on the Newport Common during the Apple Pie Crafts Fair–a full fundraiser for the Library Arts Center)
Sat. Sept. 14th
Sat. Oct. 12th
Sat. Nov. 16th
Sat. Dec. 14th

Time:  8:30am-4:30pm  (bring a bag lunch)
Tuition: $128-165 depending on basket choice   *LAC members may enter the code MEMBER at checkout to receive a 10% tuition discount.  
Location:  Library Arts Center Studio

In this one-day workshop students will create an artisan, heirloom-quality basket from start to finish! The baskets will be woven using reed with a hardwood base, rails, and rim. All materials are created and prepared by instructor Ray Lagasse–a juried member of the League of NH Craftsmen.  Each participant will be asked to choose which basket he or she will be making upon registration.  View all of the basket options HERE.

Each student will leave the workshop with the completed basket of his or her choosing.  Registration will close a week before the class starts.    

Please Note: **Students who cancel before the class will still owe a $35 fee for materials preparation.

Mixed Media Open Studio

Collage and Mixed Media Open Studio

Facilitator:  Christie Scott

Third Tuesday of each month, 11am to 2pm
Next Session:  Tues. July 16

$5.00 Tuition per session

Upcoming Projects for Class:

July 16 – “Round Robin” Collage 
August 20 – Making Papers with Gelli Plates

This is a drop in session, no need to pre-register, fill out a registration form at your first session, then attend whenever works for you.

Intrigued by the possibilities of collage and mixed media techniques? Already captivated, and interested in a communal opportunity to explore and generate new assemblages? We are starting an open collage and water based mixed media studio group. Chris Scott has been making collage for several years using textiles and paper along with various other materials and will act as facilitator; offering her experience and encouraging an exchange of ideas and knowledge by other members of the group. Bring your own art supplies and work on your current projects alongside a delightful and supportive group of artists. Completely new to mixed media? Chris can provide a short supply list for getting started.

Please note, we welcome you to bring whatever supplies you would like to this class, but ask you to refrain from bringing turpentine or mineral spirits to this open studio.  

Art for Differently-Abled Adults
Instructor:  Susan Feige
Thursday Mornings, ongoing

9:00am-12:00 noon
Library Arts Center Studio 

$6 per session for each team of student and caregiver.  Includes materials.

This inclusive group meets in the studio for inspired art projects with artist and instructor Susan Feige. This class is designed to engage differently-abled adults as well as their caregivers in fun, creative art projects!  Class themes change weekly.  Please register if you are interested in the class, then each session is a stand-alone drop-in which won’t require pre-registration. 

Art for Differently-Abled Adults
& their Caregivers Friday Workshops:  Celebrate the Seasons!

Special Once-a-Month Friday Sessions
Typically held the 2nd Friday of the Month – 9am-12pm
with instructor Susan Feige
$6 per session

This fun group will meet monthly to create art and community themed on monthly holiday or seasonal celebrations.  All participants from the Thursday group are welcome to join in this additional monthly session as well as anyone who can’t make the Thursday group, or would like to just join in for a monthly session.  There is no need to pre-register for this drop-in.  First time participants will be asked to fill out a registration form at their first session, or beforehand online.