Classes in the Arts

Register for these programs: by phone (507-664-3700), in person at FiftyNorth, or by clicking on the title of the class
Please pre-register and check-in for all classes no matter your membership levels. It is also important to check-in at the front desk when you arrive for your class.  We use attendance data for grant applications, insurance reimbursement, space planning and determining whether or not to cancel a class.
Scholarships are available to help defray the cost of classes for those who find the cost a financial hardship


Introduction to Painting – Still Life with Mark Daehlin

Mondays, February 17, 24
1:00-3:00pm

We will touch on basic concepts of drawing: perspective, ratios, composition, etc.  We will paint from a still life I provide, but if you have a subject you want to paint from a photo, you can bring your own photo.  We will learn about value, color hue and intensity, creating the illusion of 3 dimensions on a 2D surface. You can paint in oils, acrylics or watercolor, your choice.

Mark Daehlin, an award-winning fine artist, has been painting professionally since 1979.  He’s mastered airbrush, acrylics, oil both in studio and in the field (Plein aire).  He has taught beginners to professionals alike in dozens of classes over the years.  Mark studied plein air painting under Rich Kochenash and Bryan Stewart. He has written several articles in professional journals and authored dozens of instructional videotapes.  His work is collected across North America, Europe and Malaysia.  He loves teaching and sharing the joys of discovery in the arts.   www.markdaehlinart.com
(2 sessions)

Instructor: Mark Daehlin
Capacity: 12
Cost: $52 Nonmember, $44 Member
Space: Room 105
Registration deadline: February 4

Let’s Knit a Pair of Selbu Mittens or Traditional Norwegian Mittens

Wednesdays, February 12, 19, March 5
10:00-12:00pm

In this 3-session class you’ll learn about the history of Norway’s famous Selbu mittens (patterned mittens from the Selbu region) and then knit your own customized pair.  We’ll be using the 8-pointed star motif, a well- known symbol of Norwegian knitwear.  The pattern is a very traditional one often made with black stars on a white background.  The palm is done in a small, repeated pattern, and the cuff will be ribbed, as women’s mittens from Selbu usually are.
The instructor will supply wool yarn and needles.  There will be homework between classes.
Skill level for class:  Advanced beginner. 
You should already know how to knit and purl, cast on and join in the round with either double points or two circular needles. It is also helpful, but by no means necessary, to have a little experience knitting with two colors in one row.
Techniques learned in this class:

  1. How to read a chart
  2. How to knit with two colors:  stranding, dominance, tension, etc.
  3. How to knit the thumb gusset and later the thumb
  4. How to decrease for the tip of a traditional mitten

(3 sessions)

Instructor: Diane Pearsall
Capacity: 10
Cost: $85 Nonmbr, $79 Mbr
Space: Room 106
Registration deadline: February 5

Creating an Abstract Floral – Watercolor Painting

Thursday, March 27
1:00-4:00pm
Join Marty Amundson as you discover the beauty of watercolor painting. A step-by-step approach with demonstrations and explanation of basic watercolor principles are included in the lesson. Learn how to mix and vary paint consistencies, apply paint to paper (wet on wet, wet on dry, pushing, pulling) and select brushes/paper. Come and explore how to follow your intuition, loosen up and enjoy creating an abstract floral.
Materials are provided. If you prefer to bring your own watercolor paints and brushes, please do so.
Please view this video before attending the class:
https://youtu.be/VVJEidqyYWA?si=shvdgm8QjdJx31W9
Instructor: Marty Amundson
Capacity: max 15, min 8
Cost: $48 nonmember,  $38 member
Space: Room 105
Registration deadline: March 21

Beadweaving Necklace and Earrings

Saturday, March 29
10:00am-1:00pm
Embark on a captivating journey into beadweaving tailored for individuals aged 55 and above. Together, we will make a beaded jewelry set using step-by-step hands-on instructions. You’ll leave with a stunning necklace and earring set that reflects your newfound skills and creativity. If you can hold a needle, this class is for you! All materials and additional lighting will be provided.
Andrea’s Bio: I am a local designer who creates classically elegant beaded statement jewelry that is comfortable and easy to wear. I balance bold colors with unique contrasts to create pieces that seamlessly transition between seasons and styles. My designs use the highest quality Japanese seed beads and Swarovski crystals. They are unique and timeless pieces that coordinate and compliment your outfit, mood and lifestyle. Explore my work at www.AndreaTuriniJewelry.com
Instructor: Andrea Turini
Capacity: Minimum 3, Maximum 8
Cost: $68 Nonmember, $53 Member
Space: Room 105
Registration deadline: March 21

“Tell Me a Story” – Storytelling Class

Mondays, April 7, 14, 21
9:30-11:00am

As this past year has shown, we are all storytellers on some level or another. We tell stories about anything and everything!  We tell about things that have happened during our day, events which have happened to our friends, our children, our pets and everything else. As we share our experiences it will help us to sharpen, discover, focus and expand our own personal skills while having a lot of FUN!  “Tell me a Story!”
(3 sessions)

Instructor: Sylvia Langworthy
Capacity: 5 Minimum, 10 Maximum
Cost: $45 Nonmember, $30 Member
Space: Room 104
Registration deadline: April 1


Soap Making

Monday, April 7
1:00-4:00pm
Unleash your creativity and explore the rich tradition of soap making in this introductory melt and pour soap making class.’ In this class, you’ll not only learn the modern, easy-to­ master technique of melt and pour soap making, but also dive into the fascinating history of soap and discuss some early soap making methods and materials.
Instructor: Jenna Nelson
Capacity: 5 minimum, 15 maximum
Space: Room 105
Cost: $31 nonmember, $21 member
Registration deadline: April 1

Hand Embroidery Class

Wednesday, April 9
10:00-11:30am
Unleash your creativity with hand embroidery! This engaging class is perfect for beginners and those looking to refine their skills. We’ll explore a variety of stitches, including running stitch, back stitch, French knots, and more.
Materials provided: The stamped embroidery kit includes stamped white fabric, cotton floss, plastic hoop, needle, and instructions.
Instructor: Beverly Jacobsen
Capacity: Minimum 5, Maximum 10
Cost: $47 Nonmember, $37 Member
Space: Room 105
Registration deadline:  April 2

Cookie Decorating Class

Thursday, April 17
1:00-3:00pm
Hop on in for this class. Any bunny can decorate this cute little set of sugar cookies! Join us for a fun afternoon where Tisha will walk you through step by step instructions to decorate these adorable and delicious cookies! The cookies and icing will be provided for you. No experience needed.
Instructor: Latisha Soucek from Tisha’s Tasty Treats
Capacity: Minimum 4, Maximum 16
Cost: $70 Nonmember, $55 Member
Space: Room 105
Registration deadline: April 10

Make-Your-Own Collage and Card Elements

Monday, April 21
1:00-4:00pm
If you’re a collage artist or enjoy card-making, you know that art supply stores are full of patterned paper.  But why buy when you can make your own unique, painted papers!
During this class, you’ll have the chance to play with a variety of techniques.
** Stenciling: There will be lots of stencils to use to create layers using acrylic paints. Or try stenciling with water colors for a whole different look.
** Layers, layers, layers: Alternate colors of acrylic paint to create papers with depth and interest.
** Ink & Marbles: Dunk marbles in ink and then roll ‘em around on papers. You’ll love the look.
** Printing with vegetables and fruits: Don’t worry, we won’t be using potatoes like you did in elementary school. We’ll make dazzling papers printing with oranges, lemons, peppers, fennel, garlic, corn cobs and a few other bits of produce.
There will be time to create many papers so you’ll go home with a wide assortment. You also may want to swap papers with others for even more variety.
MATERIALS PROVIDED:
Assorted papers, acrylics watercolors, marbles, brushes, palette knives, brayers and sponges, assorted fruits and vegetables
*PARTICIPANTS – Please bring an apron, or wear clothes that you don’t mind getting some paint on.
Let that inner child out and have fun!
Instructor: Pat Jorstad
Capacity: 12
Cost: $45 Nonmember, $35 Member
Space: Room 105
Registration deadline: April 18

Japanese Calligraphy

Wednesday, May 21
1:00-2:30pm
Japanese calligraphy is the fine art of writing.  Traditionally, it uses a brush and charcoal ink.
Join us to learn the art of calligraphy to connect the body and mind.
Instructor: Sayaka Yamazaki
Capacity: Minimum 3, Maximum 10
Cost: $35 Nonmember, $20 Member
Space: Room 102
Registration deadline: May 14
Sayaka Yamazaki Bio:
Sayaka Yamazaki was born and grew up in Tokyo, Japan. She graduated from a University in Japan and earned another bachelor degree in the United States. Her grandmother taught her how to make origami at the age of four and she taught her children the art of origami at home. The ancient practice of paper folding has been passed down through generations.
Sayaka learned calligraphy in elementary school in Japan and brought the calligraphy set from Japan to share Japanese art and writing.
She has taught Japanese language, art, culture, and more at Concordia Language Camp, Japanese school, charter and public schools, community centers, and in an assisted living care center. She also taught private Japanese classes, piano lessons and cooking classes at the Community Education Center.
Sayaka is looking forward to sharing her experiences about the beauty of Japan.

Japanese Origami

Wednesday, May 28
1:00-2:30pm
Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding.  Create almost anything, animals, flowers, birds, and more.  Join us to learn a fun way to exercise your fingers and your mind.
Instructor: Sayaka Yamazaki
Capacity: Minimum 3, Maximum 7
Cost: $35 Nonmember, $20 Member
Space: Room 102
Registration deadline: May 21