Arts center offers free watercolor class for seniors

The Kane County Center for the Arts (KCCA), in partner­ship with the Kane County Active Living Centers and the Kane County Council on Ag­ing, is offering a free six-week watercolor course for individuals ages 55 and older.

“Inspired to Paint” will be held on six consecutive Tuesdays, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 and April 7, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Kanab Senior Center.

The course explores painting by learning from well-known art­ists recognized for their distinctive styles. Each week highlights a different artist. Stu­dents will practice by copying one piece and then create their own work inspired by that style. Participants will build skills in color, technique and expres­sion, while exploring their own creative voice. No experience is necessary, just curios­ity and a willingness to try something new. All supplies are provided at no cost.

Six sessions will cover Color and Play on March 3 inspired by Alma Thomas; Brush Control and Expression on March 10 inspired by Geor­gia O’Keeffe; Still Life and Shape on March 17 inspired by Ruth Asawa; Landscapes and Nature on March 24 inspired by Chiura Obata; and two final sessions March 31 and April 7 devoted to cre­ating original pieces for the exhibition.

The course will be taught by Lanell Dike of Springdale, a Cre­ative Aging teaching artist who has received strong reviews from previous groups. She teaches 2D and 3D vi­sual arts including wa­tercolor, acrylic mono­types, drawing and hand-built ceramics. Dike incorporates art history and contempo­rary artists into each lesson and focuses on making art accessible to everyone, regardless of experience.

The series concludes with a group exhibition on April 10 at 11 a.m. at the Kanab Senior Cen­ter, where participants can share their work with family, friends and the community.

KCCA co-founder Mariah Wheeler said the organization aims to cultivate talent at every age and provide tools that help artists thrive. She said the wa­tercolor course reflects KCCA’s commitment to bringing quality arts programming to the community.

The program is made possible by a Creative Aging Grant from the Utah Division of Arts and Museums.

Participants must commit to attending all six classes and the ex­hibition. Attendance is limited to 10 students. Visit kanecountyarts.org to register.