Imagine your happy-place. A sun-dappled backyard with green grass on a sunny day? Mountains fresh with snow? El Rancho? A creatively chaotic room where you can make something so cool nobody would believe it if you tried to tell them? For me, art rooms, makerspaces and galleries have a way of being a Shangri-La, an oasis of possibility, and a respite in a hectic day.
I’ve been visiting with others who love an art getaway, who come to the DAC to take clay classes every Friday after work and enjoy an adult beverage. I was wondering if they have always had a proclivity toward creativity, or if this is by chance because they make outrageously cool things!
Many students have just discovered clay. Some have experience, others have come at the behest of a friend and are now repeat students. This Friday evening class has been filling up each week. So why do people attend?
It’s fun and liberating to get your hands dirty, and yet there’s much more to it.
Encouragement! What do you mean your sister Becky was the creative one? Genes don’t get doled out that way. You have a birthright to creativity! Your mug rocks! Your work, your vision, is different and that is the beauty of it. The instructors, Mr. B and Ms. Deena, are inspirational and it is so fun to see them help people through the process from slight intimidation to self-discovery and confidence. Ultimately, joy is the result. I never tire of watching this happen. The creative process is, in my book, a certain means to a wonderful end.
It’s great to be out again in the company of others in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. In such a place, the act of creating something is therapeutic and enriching. It is said that giving yourself time to enjoy life makes you more interesting and lovable. I’d stake a high wager on that!
Pots and Pints Happy Hour classes are 4:30 to 6 p.m. Fridays through Dec. 9. Make it a date night, grab your drink and go see a play in the theater after.
Come see why the people say that this class feels like a vacation ... and leave your baggage at the door!
Make sure to register ahead at durangoarts.org.
Coming up next at the Durango Arts Center:
- Danny and the Deep Blue Sea, a play by John Patrick Shanley, directed by Michael Grais. 7 p.m. Nov. 4-5 and 11-12; 2 p.m. Nov. 6 and 13. $20/$15 students.
- Teton Gravity Research Ski/Snowboard Film Magic Hour, 5:30 and 8 p.m. Nov. 10. $20 in advance /$22 at the door.
- 24 Hour Theater: Eight plays go from blank page to stage in 24 hours. 7 p.m. Nov. 19 and 2 p.m. Nov. 20. $15.
- Adult Improv Class, Tues. Green Level-with Mary; Thu. Blue Level-with Cindy. Four classes. 6-8 p.m., Nov. 8-Dec. 6. $40 discounts for students, teachers, service workers and for referring a friend.
- Pots & Pints Ceramic Hand Building Happy Hour: 4:30-6 p.m. every Friday. $30
- Clay to Canvas, Art Classes for those with Parkinson’s: 1-3 p.m. (ongoing). $10.
- Build-a-Bong with Mr. B: 4-6 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Nov. 10; 1-3, 4-6 and 7-9 p.m. Nov. 12. $50. For ages 21 and older.
- Handmade Gift Giving Workshop: Weaving, pottery, glass fusion and painting. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 19. $135.
- Call to artists for the Winter Gift Gallery. Information on website.
Need a clever idea for your upcoming office party or celebration? Avoid the awkward chitchat and make it meaningful by bringing your crew to an art class or buying a bundle of tickets for a show! E-Gift certificates available! Email info@durangoarts.org
All the things are on the website! Donate, become a member for discounts and to be a patron of the arts, register for classes, buy tickets and keep in touch at DurangoArts.org.
Brenda Macon has been executive director of Durango Arts Center since 2018. Her background includes executive leadership training, business and art instruction. She celebrates the inspiration, joy and meaningful engagement that the arts bring to our town.
