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The Arts (writing, painting, acting, etc.)
Neurographic Art Meditative Class on Mondays in February at River House
with Estelle Thibodeau
Neurographic art goes beyond creating visually appealing pieces; it can also have positive effects on mental and overall well-being.
Neurographic Art was termed by Pavel Piskarev as a technique of drawing random lines into and off the paper’s edge in ambling free flow. Then, one thickens some of the lines to define and form shapes and finishes by FILLING IN the interstices aka, intersections which created in a relaxed, soothing manner activates (neuron) curves to soften any points resembling the neural patterns of our brain.
Talent in Art or drawing is not required. This is an intuitive, relaxing exercise and not just a DOODLE on paper. You will feel your brain releasing the residue of stress and trauma as you work your way through this Manifestation of ARTFORM.
BENEFITS OF THIS ART PRACTICE
- Relief from anxiety
- Finding peace
- Stress reduction
- More mindful presence and awareness
- Clarity and perspective
- Expression of inner feelings
- Creating art for personal spaces
- Therapeutic mental health strengthening
Supplies for your neurographic art will be provided however, if you have your own favorite markers, crayons or paints, please feel free to bring them to the class.
Estelle Thibodeau is an Ordained Minister of The Alliance of Divine Love. Through her work with other ministers, she learned different methods of healing and teaching. Several years ago she was introduced to neurographic art at a class taught by a fellow minister and has been practicing and sharing this method since. “This art form, is meant to induce a meditative state in which anxiety, sadness, fear, and trauma can be processed. It opens your eyes to see the unique creation you will express & share with others in the group.” Estelle has lived in St.Augustine for 15 years, is a graduate of Flagler College, and has a business called The Seventh Root located in downtown St.Augustine. She is also the founder of The Cheesy Chess Club, a nonprofit organization providing casual unrated over the board Chess to our community.
Class sessions will be held on Mondays, February 3, 10, 24 from 11:30 to 1 at River House (179 Marine St. St. Augustine 32084)
No class session on Feb. 17.
For ages 18 and up.
Will run
Ballet on Mondays in February at River House
with Judy Woodruff
For beginners and experienced dancers who love classical ballet and the meditative focus it demands. Emphasis in this class will be on understanding the ideals of ballet within the confines of our mature and varied body types, building the strength and flexibility that support the technique, and the presentational qualities ballet demands. The class will include barre and center work but will not include jumps or turns unless members of the class request them. Alternative movement will be provided for those who are not comfortable with turns or jumps.
Ballet shoes are recommended.
Class sessions will be held on Mondays, February 3, 10, 24 from 1:30 - 3 at River House (179 Marine St.)
No class session on Feb. 17.
For ages 18 and up.
Will run
Creating a Junk Journal on Mondays in February at River House
with Liz Monaco
What is a junk journal? It is a creative and personalized type of journal that combines various materials, often repurposed or found items, to create unique pages filled with memories, art and self-expression. Unlike traditional journals that focus on clean pages and uniformity, junk journals embrace an eclectic aesthetic. The beauty of a junk journal lies in its individuality. There are no strict rules, so you can mix and match material to reflect your personal type and experiences. It’s a wonderful way to unleash your creativity and document your journey.
Week 1: will be creating a book cover using a cereal or cracker box. You will or Elmers or Mod Podge glue, fabric (1/2 yard), scissors, ruler, Medium paper clamps, and heavy weight decorative scrapbook paper that will complement your fabric.
Week 2 and 3: will focus on selecting and decorating the signature papers using any of the materials listed below.
Here are some common materials used to create a junk journal:
- Paper: this can include old book pages, scrapbook paper, construction paper, letters, envelopes, and any other type of paper that can add texture and interest.
- Ephemera: items like ticket stubs, postcards, vintage photographs, and magazine clippings provide a nostalgic touch and tell a story.
- Fabric: Pieces of fabric, lace, ribbons or even clothing can be used to create pockets or decorative elements in the journal.
- Stickers and Washi Tape: these are great for embellishing pages and adding color and fun designs.
- Paints and inks: acrylic paints, watercolors, and ink can be applied to add splashes of color or texture.
- Stamps: Rubber stamp and ink pads can add images and patterns to the pages
- Sewing Supplies: Thread, needles, and sewing machines can be used to stitch pages together or create fabric elements.
- Adhesives: Glue sticks, double-sided tape, or Mod Podge are essential for attaching various materials to the pages.
- Book binding materials: awl, bone folder, waxed heavy thread, large eye heavy needle.
Optional materials: paper trimmer, ink blending brushes, cosmetic sponges.
Class sessions will be held on Mondays, February 3, 10, 24 from 1:30 to 3:30 at River House (179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084)
No class session on Feb 17.
For ages 18 and up.
Will run
Singing on Tuesdays in February at River House
with Abigail Dyer
Group singing class is focused on the basics of classical singing technique. You'll learn exercises to improve your breath control as well as your vocal strength, range and clarity. You'll also have a chance to apply your new technique to the repertoire of your choice.
Please bring two printed copies of the sheet music for a song of your choice to work on over the course of the month. Students of all levels are welcome.
Singing teacher and classical singer Abigail Dyer was born in West Orange, New Jersey. With a private voice studio in St Augustine Beach and over 20 years' experience teaching opera professionals and amateur singers alike, Abby specializes in developing healthy vocal technique in the service of expressive singing.
Abby is a graduate of Vassar College (BA) and Columbia University (MA, M.Phil., Ph.D.), and the Mannes College Wagner Theater Program.
Class sessions will be held Tuesdays, February 4, 11, 25 from 10:15 to 11:15 at River House (179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084)
No class session on Feb. 18.
For ages 18 and up.
Will run
Beginners Ballroom Dance Group Class on Tuesdays in February at River House
with Ramona Walter
Join Ramona as she teaches Beginners Ballroom Dance Group Class. No partner is needed. A strictly beginners Ballroom Dance Class where you come to enjoy yourself with friends you haven't met yet. We have a great time while learning a new skill.
Learn the basic steps in Ballroom Dance so you can move around the dance floor with confidence. Dancing is the best exercise for your body and your brain. Come join us, you'll love it.
Wear comfortable shoes, leather bottom preferred.
Ramona is the former owner of Mona Gail Dance Center. She studied Ballroom dance under Jack Kalan and became a teacher at the age of sixteen. While working with Fred Astaire she became the Tri-State Dance Director and she is a multi National Championship winner. She has experience in choreography and her local students won first place in the "I Love Dance Competition" at World Golf Village in 2020.
Class sessions will be held on Tuesdays, February 4, 11, 25 from 11:30 to 12:30 at River House (179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084)
No Class session on Feb. 18.
For ages 18 and up.
Will run
Intermediate Ballroom Dance Group Class on Tuesdays in February at River House
with Ramona Walter
You must have basic knowledge of ballroom dancing.
In this class you will learn the technical elements of ballroom dance including leading and following. You will also learn correct ballroom posture so you will look good while executing your steps. Learn how to recognize the right music for the right dance.
Come join us. You'll have a great time!
No partner is needed.
Wear comfortable shoes, leather bottom preferred.
Ramona is the former owner of Mona Gail Dance Center. She studied Ballroom dance under Jack Kalan and became a teacher at the age of sixteen. While working with Fred Astaire she became the Tri-State Dance Director and she is a multi National Championship winner. She has experience in choreography and her local students won first place in the "I Love Dance Competition" at World Golf Village in 2020.
Class sessions will be held on Tuesdays, February 4, 11, 25 from 12:45 to 1:45 at The River House (179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084)
No class session on Feb. 18.
For ages 18 and up.
Will run
Argentine Tango on Tuesdays in February at River House
with Virginia "Honey" Burton
Learn the Basics of Argentine Tango (the original Tango). The Dance progresses counterclockwise around the floor. No partner needed. Dancers rotate partners. Leather soled shoes are preferrable. No flipflops, rubber soles, etc. Dance sneakers are Ok.
Virginia has been dancing Argentine Tango for over 20 years. She studied in the U.S. and traveled to Argentina twice to study with the Maestros. She has danced in group performances and solo with a partner here and in Atlanta and has been teaching here in St Augustine, Ormond Beach and Jax and surrounding areas since 2008. You might have seen her performing in the Romanza Festvale over the past 7 years.
Class sessions are Tuesdays, February 4, 11, 18, 25 from 2:45 to 3:45 at River House (179 Marine Street, St. Augustine 32084)
For ages 18 and up.
Watercolor 1 on Wednesdays in February at River House
with David Ouellette
This course is designed to teach the student the techniques of transparent watercolor using both the ”wet” and “dry” methods. Student will learn the unique characteristics of the watercolor medium, its possibilities and limitations, as well as the special papers and brushes used in the execution of art works.
Mr. Ouellette received his Bachelor of Fine Arts and Master of Arts in Painting from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. He taught at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and showed in many galleries and museums including the Detroit Institute of Art. He moved to St. Augustine in 1981 where he continued his career as an artist and professor of Fine Art at the Florida School of the Arts in his twenty-six year tenure. He was also a professor of Fine Arts, Painting and Design and Art History at SJRCC St. Augustine campus. He is currently teaching Art History and Studio classes at Flagler College Continuing Education.
Watercolor Materials and Supplies
Brushes:
- sable (preferred), ox hair (if you can find it or sable blends or sable synthetics
- 1” flat
- 1/2” flat
- #8 and #10 round
- rigger brush
Paper:
- Two sheets of Arches 22”x30”, 140 lb. cold press, or a 9” x 12” block
Paints:
Box sets of tube watercolors which should include most of these:
- ultramarine blue
- cerulean blue
- cobalt blue
- thalo blue
- alizarin crimson
- cadmium red light
- cadmium yellow light
- new gamboge
- burnt umber
- burnt sienna
Other materials:
- covered palette, plastic
- painting board
- masking tape
- materials box
- non-breakable container for water
- roll of paper towels
Class sessions will be held on Wednesdays, February 5, 12, 19, 26 from 9:00 - 11:00 at River House (179 Marine St. St. Augustine 32084)
For ages 18 and up.
Will run