Creative courses abound in Oxford to benefit the mind and soul
By Andi Bedsworth
It is a New Year and time to think about new goals and experiences for the spring. If you have children, you know that it is hard to keep them busy, and Oxford has stepped up to help meet this challenge.
There are many art programs in the area geared to teach children about art history and various art techniques. Studies have shown that being involved in artistic pursuits benefits children in many ways, giving them a creative outlet in which to express themselves. It is also good at developing problem-solving skills and helping them to think out of the box. With this thought in mind, why not consider enrolling your child or yourself in an art class this semester? There are many options to choose from including classes for many different age groups.
The University Museum has several classes that it offers including an after-school program for grades K through 6 called Art Zone, which begins at the end of January. Their Mini Master’s class is geared for children ages two to five with a parent in attendance, and this program is now a joint program with Art to Go, LLC and the Powerhouse. The classes will alternate between both venues with one class each month being held at each facility beginning in February. More information on their programs can be found here and 915-7073.
Studio Whimzy located at 807 College Hill Road offers adult and children’s programs including an afters-chool program and adult painting lessons. They hold fun painting events for adults that often combine food, and painting lessons and are very popular. You can contact them at (662) 202-2895 and www.studiowhimzy.com.
The Powerhouse Community Arts Center offers art and acting classes by Art to Go, LLC and Oxford Acting Studio for various age groups and interests. There are also adult classes in watercolor and mixed media by various instructors. More information about all of these classes and to register can be found on their website and by calling 236-6429.
Older adults can take art classes for free at the Oxford Park Commission’s Community Activity Center on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. starting in February. The classes are geared for beginners and more advanced artists and emphasize learning new techniques and having fun. Contact Deb Helms at dhelms@oxfordms.net. They also offer classes in yoga, line dancing, and various other topics through their Leisure Lifestyles program.
As you can see, there is more than enough to keep children busy after school in artistic pursuits. Support your local arts community and enroll them or yourself in a local arts class and learn something new this year.
Local artist Andi Bedsworth is owner of Art To Go, LLC, bringing arts education and instruction to children and adults in Oxford and Lafayette County. She may be reached at arttogollc@gmail.com.
Andi Bedsworth
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