Fall Classes at the Art Center

Let planning for the fall class season begin! The Indianapolis Art Center has released its fall schedule, and registration begins July 23. Hooray!

It's impossible to list everything the Center will offer this fall. There are more than a dozen categories of classes, and 24 classes in the ceramics category alone. And that's not counting the 45 weekend workshops offered throughout the season. So, suffice it to say that there are basic, intermediate and advanced classes available in just about every art form you can think of.

Instead, let's take a look at what's new on the calendar this semester:

• The Center is again offering its master series on precious metal clay (PMC). You can sign up for the entire series or just pick the topics of interest to you. I love this material; it's easy to work with, and it provides almost instant gratification!


• Among the 40+ painting classes on the schedule is "Windows Into Heaven: Icon Painting."


• Among the 20+ photography classes is "Exotic Animal Portraiture," which must come in handy when you run into a lion in your back yard.


• In the special media category, you'll find classes on building guitars, writing Irish script and playing steel drums.

Not willing to make an expensive commitment to an unfamiliar art form? The Art Center offers "sampler" classes in printmaking, fiber and glass; for $30, you get two hours to try a project and decide whether you're interested in learning more.

Or, invest in a weekend workshop instead. It's more expensive than a sampler class, but you get a great overview of an art form for a manageable time commitment. Some of the more intriguing workshops coming up include:

• Gourd Art.


• Flamework: Glass Beads and More.


• Fundamentals of Interior Design.


• Copper Plate Etching.


• Ornaments, Marbles and More (glass-making).


• Furniture Refinishing Made Easy.


• Botanical Illustration.


• Steel Fabrication Sculpture.

I could go on, but you get the idea. Check out the schedule to see what intrigues you. I haven't made up my mind yet. I always love to play with PMC, but it might be time to try something new. My drawing skills could use some work, since the best thing I can draw is a cube. Maybe a snowman. It's a good thing the Center welcomes beginners!