The Sheridan Fulmer Public Library is pleased to announce that we are once again offering arts-based programming to enrich the lives of adults 55 and older in Sheridan County through the Wyoming Creative Aging Public Libraries Project.
This is a series of free classes focused on skill development and social interaction, aimed at those 55 and older. A trained teaching artist will lead the class, offering instruction for all skill levels. The class size is very small, usually around 10 students, to ensure that each participant has the opportunity to work with the teacher during the lessons. In order to remove financial barriers, all materials are provided free of charge.
Beginning September 13, an eight-week watercolor painting course will be held at the Sheridan Fulmer Public Library from 10 a.m. to noon every Tuesday. These classes will teach the basics of watercolor while helping students gain a better understanding and vocabulary regarding the color wheel. Participants will explore the following ways: working with various watercolor techniques, different art styles and watercolor subjects. As they begin to develop their sketchbooks, students will learn to methodically work with watercolor studies to produce finished paintings. Students can expect to gain knowledge of color mixing technique and basic color theory.
Creative aging is the practice of engaging older adults in participatory, sequential, socially engaged and professionally directed artistic programs. This program model not only promotes the mastery of artistic skills and creative expression, but is a proven way to alleviate the effects of social isolation.
“Creative Aging embraces older adults as learners, expands the impact of teaching artists and provides a positive and creative approach to programming,” said Maura O’Malley, CEO and co-founder of Lifetime Arts.
Creative Aging in Wyoming Public Libraries is made possible by a partnership between the Wyoming State Library, the Wyoming Arts Council and Lifetime Arts with funding from the Wyoming Community Foundation. The Fulmer Public Library is eligible to receive funding to support instructor fees, workshop materials, and supplies for two programs. Library staff and teaching artists have received training and coaching from Lifetime Arts, a national leader in developing creative aging programs. With this training, they are equipped to plan, promote, implement, evaluate and maintain both face-to-face and virtual creative aging programs.
Registration is required because classes are very limited and open on a first-come, first-served basis.
To register or for more information, contact Sheridan Fulmer Library Programming Coordinator Denise Gillenwater at dgillenwater@sheridanwyolibrary.org or by calling 307-674-8585, ext. 129.
