“Artism” exhibit opens soon; class listings

By Hope Wallace 

Imagine yourself not being able to get your message across. Imagine being in a country where no one understands your language and neither do you understand theirs. – Jan Cline, speech therapist, Bittersweet, Inc.

April is Autism Awareness Month, and we’re excited about our upcoming exhibit, “Artism,” featuring work by artists who are dealing with the neurodevelopmental disorder known as autism.  Office Manager Matt Temple recently went to Columbus to pick up additional work for the show, this time from the Open Door Art Studio, which serves artists with learning differences.

“Artism” opens on Sunday, April 13, with a reception from 1-5 p.m.  We’ll be showing a documentary by filmmaker Richard Walsh of Cleveland which explains how art can help improve communication, expression, and life experiences for people suffering from autism.

Spaces are available for “ArtReach2”, our after-school art program; the next session begins April 7.  ArtReach 2 classes are on Mondays, are one month long, and can be renewed throughout the school year with a monthly fee.  Van Wert Elementary School will provide transportation to the Goedde Building, where our instructor will be on hand to bring students to the art center. Children learn about artists and art history, and do exciting projects.

Spaces are always available for the ongoing Classic Watercolor Class taught by Pat Rayman on Tuesday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon.  The class is renewable each month at a fee of $35 for members and $40 for non-members.

On this past Tuesday evening a large group enjoyed participating in “Vine & Palette,” where we sip wine and paint.  Tuesday’s subject was a close-up of a flower, and the gallery looked like a blooming flower garden!  This is a good introduction to handling paint; all materials are provided and you need only bring yourself.  The next Vine & Palette event will take place on May 1.  These fun events are scheduled through the next few months.  Participants are encouraged to bring a friend and a bottle of wine to share.  You may also bring snacks for the snack table.  We’ll take care of the rest. Class time runs 6:30-9:30 p.m. We provide paints, canvas, brushes, your first glass of wine and a lot of fun. Wear a paint shirt or apron to protect your clothes.

Spots are available for Animaé/Manga (ages 8-adult) class taught by instructor, Matthew Temple and is being offered on Thursday evenings, May 8, 15, 22, 29 from 6-8 p.m. A list of inexpensive materials will be available upon registration. Cost for this class is $35 for art center members and $40 for non-members.

Are you designing your Kentucky Derby hat yet?  “Derby Down” is drawing closer and the gates spring open May 3! We will be live-streaming the 140th Running of the Kentucky Derby and serving derby-inspired beverages and snacks. Following the race we will have one of our favorite bands, “Reese Dailey,” back to play in our new space – which includes a stage for bands and other entertainment!  In addition, a call for entry will be going out to those who might like to create or share original art with a horse theme.

The Wassenberg Art Center is located at 214 S. Washington St. (former Van Wert Armory). For information, call 419.238.6837, e-mail info@wassenbergartcenter.org, or visit the website at wassenbergartcenter.org.  Hours during exhibits are Tuesday through Sunday, 1-5 p.m.