Since everyone doesn’t work the same, since all artists have preferences regarding their studio time, since some people never run out of original ideas and others need a little more prompting, we offer two distinct types of sessions: open and structured, as well as our brand new In-Depth Arts program.
The Programs
Structured Sessions:
In this type of session, artists are encouraged to move freely inside a broad theme or medium. For example, first-timers will explore and create self-portraits in a variety of mediums. Other themes include comfort, fears, dreams, journeys etc.--anything that incites creativity.
During some months, we will have a specific project that groups will collaborate on. One group decided to write and illustrate and construct a book about the incredible journey of a certain captain. They worked for one session collaborating on the story and another four weeks creating the book. It is a part of the permanent archives at the Center.
Open Sessions:
These classes focus on expanding comfort with artistic creativity. Led only by their imaginations and whatever materials we have on hand, artists create whatever they want, however they want. Monthly themes are only suggestions used to spur artists into creative action when they seem lost. We encourage everyone to get everything they need (within physical limits) when they need it, and it doesn’t take long for open studio artists to feel at home in the studio.
Just about anything goes in these groups--collaborations, sculptures, clothing, found art--anything. Turner Center staff work with the artists to fully realize the potential of their ideas and take them as far as they will go.
In-Depth Arts:
The newest addition to the arsenal of artistic programs offered by the Turner Center, In-Depth Arts is an affordable day-program structured much like a community based open art studio--except this studio is open to adults with disabilities. Drop-ins are welcome, and people are encouraged to stay all day. Two or more Turner Center staff will be on hand to assist artists with idea development, choosing appropriate media to express those ideas, and some technical instruction when artists hit a roadblock. All materials will be available to all artists all day. The studio will be open from 10 am - 3 pm each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. In-Depth Arts is a brand new program, so the framework will be evolving to suit the practical needs of the artists and the Turner Center. Please contact our studio for more information on this exciting new program.