New programs, exhibits, and classes to explore at Wayne Center for the Arts

 

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WOOSTER   The Wayne Center for the Arts is ready for a new season with new programs, a fresh exhibit in its galleries, and a myriad of classes for students of all ages and experience levels.

The Wayne Center for the Arts kicks off 2023 with the opening of its Winter Session of classes. Students of all ages and experience levels will find a creative outlet in visual arts, clay, music, creative writing, theater, dance, and expanded programming in digital arts and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math).

“We are adding new instructors and new opportunities to expand skills in our digital arts programming,” Program Coordinator James Buckey said in a news release. “Younger students (ages 11-14) will enjoy an introduction to arts technology in our Graphic Design Sampler. We’ll also explore the possibilities and challenges surrounding the current trend of creating art using Artificial Intelligence (AI). Other exciting new classes in Macro Photography and Podcasting will give students the opportunity to enhance their skills or explore new hobbies.”

In addition to the new classes in the Digital Arts Department, Buckey also coordinates workshops in the STEAM Lab, including workshops in February for ages 8 and up.

“STEAM really explores where art can align with more technical applications like science and technology,” Buckey said in the release. “Our aim at WCA is to explore the creative application of this knowledge and these skills to inspire innovation.”

This session’s STEAM workshops include resin pouring and using chemistry to grow crystals.

With the new year also comes new exhibits in the Arts Center’s Gault and Looney Galleries. The 5th Annual Wayne/Holmes Artists’ Exhibit will run through February 10. The exhibit features 50 pieces on display from 27 artists from Wayne and Holmes counties.

Another upcoming exhibit will be the “Almost Dark” exhibition created, curated, and hosted by the Teen Arts Advisory Board. The Teen Art Advisory Board of Wooster (TAABWoo) provides an opportunity for Wayne County students to develop hands-on arts based job skills. They are currently calling for artists (of any age) to
create supernatural art of all mediums to be displayed under black lights. Those interested can find details at WayneArtsCenter.org. Applications are due February 18, 2023.

Finally, Wayne Center for the Arts is pleased to offer free opportunities for the community to engage with the arts. A new program called “Art Connection,” sponsored by a private donor, will provide an inclusive, safe space for adults to express themselves through the arts, and to build community. Each class will explore a different art medium including painting, drawing, printmaking, and mixed media. Each new student will receive a basic art supply kit to encourage ongoing artistic expression. Classes will be held Feb. 8, and March 8 from 6 -7 p.m. Registration for each class is required at WayneArtsCenter.org.

For families, a new program called “Creative Sparks” offers a fun art workshop for children and caregivers that builds connection and encourages cooperation. These classes are also offered free of charge and take place on Feb. 18, and March 18 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Once again, registration for each class is required at
WayneArtsCenter.org.

For more information about all classes, events, and programs, visit WayneArtsCenter.org or call 330-264-2787.

Wayne Center for the Arts, founded in 1973, is the area’s oldest and most comprehensive visual and performing arts organization. With a mission to enrich lives and strengthen communities through art, Wayne Center for the Arts promotes artistic creativity, education and presentation for a collaborative, inclusive and vibrant cultural community.