Workshops

Please be sure to click on the “Supply list and welcome letter” link for each class you plan to attend. These documents contain important information regarding necessary supplies, tips from the instructor, as well as any pre-class assignments and submission deadlines.

Click for a comprehensive, printable workshop schedule»

Art and folk art

Color Confidence for Quilters

Explore the color wheel and gain color confidence through the knowledge of color theory and color schemes when choosing fabric for quilts. Stop letting quilt shop employees choose your fabrics and get beyond copying the colors on a quilt pattern cover/book, quilt shop sample, or pre-packaged quilt kit. We use fabric samples to learn about primary, secondary, and tertiary colors; warm and cool colors; various color schemes; differentiating scale of printed fabric; tint, tone, and shades of fabrics; and color values. We study examples of various color combinations on actual quilts and discuss why certain color combinations work and why others do not. Beginning level.

WAD101 • Saturday 8:30am-4:45pm • $120 • Materials fee $5 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Laurie Ceesay is a fiber artist, teacher, and hairdresser with a degree in clothing, textiles, and design from UW-Stout. Click for bio»

Create a Visual Memoir

Looking to put together a visual journal? Whether it’s photographs, your own poems or artwork, or grandma’s recipes, we’ll create a book with the help of Adobe® Photoshop® Elements in this hands-on workshop. With the discussion of basic design elements we will learn what makes good design work, how to create a visual mood, and the importance of typography in layout. A review of Photoshop® Elements tools will be included, but the focus of this class will be on the design and creation of a book, so basic Photoshop® Element skills are recommended. Printing and printing costs not included. Beginning/intermediate

A303 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Nancy Koberle-O'Connell is an award-winning artist with more than 30 years’ experience in graphic design. She is currently a senior artist at UW-Madison Continuing Studies, where she works extensively with the Adobe Creative Suite. Click for bio»

Decorating Your Denim Jacket

Make your denim jacket stand out in a crowd! Using vintage trims, doilies, and buttons, embellish your denim—or other favorite—jacket. Learn simple design and color principles and get started hand-sewing trims, etc. to your jacket. Gain knowledge of the use and placement of filet crocheted pieces, doilies, embroidered trims, and beads! Watch as your jacket transitions from boring to bedazzling! Beginning

ME102 • Mon-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $90 • Materials fee varies • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Suzanne Myers Otto lives in Madison, WI and has been sewing since childhood. Wearable art is her favorite branch of the quilting tree. Click for bio»

Drawing What You See, Not What You Think You See

Learning how to draw is not only satisfying in itself, but can also be a wonderful tool in creating more satisfying and successful paintings. By first grade we have learned symbols of what things should look like—a tulip, a daisy, a person looking straight ahead, and many of us get stuck with those internal images, never looking again at the thing we are drawing. You’ll learn to see, to really see, and then draw the thing you see. Break the habit of drawing from memory through several fun exercises, and learn the theories behind creating the illusion of three dimensions on a two-dimensional piece of paper. Weekend only option! Beginning/intermediate

D103 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»
Weekend only option! WD103 • Sat-Sun, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $120

Instructor Pat Dobrinska teaches at different weeks-long workshops, including at Lawrence University, Bjorklunden, School of the Arts, University of Wisconsin’s painting at Green Lake, and in Mexico. Click for bio»

Exploring Spiritual Archetypes

Come unmask your inner shadow and light through the self-revealing process of mask-making. Explore the active role that your inner guardians, allies, and foes play in your life, happiness, and spiritual path. This workshop will incorporate visual journaling, meditation, discussion and more. Develop a deep appreciation for the depth and expanse of your life journey! Beginning

MD401 • Mon-Wed, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $180 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Elizabeth Lewis holds a BFA in creative writing from Emerson College in Boston, MA, is certified in stress management training (CHt) through FeelYourBest Horizons Stress Management Program, and is licensed as a one-on-one HeartMath Provider through the HeartMath Institute, San Jose, CA. Click for bio»

Iroquois Beading in Art and Culture

Iroquois Raised Beadwork is a unique, culturally significant art form. In this workshop, you'll learn not only beadwork technique, but the Iroquois beliefs that underlies the beadwork. You'll see traditional Iroquois women’s regalia, and learn the significance of each piece of clothing and of the beadwork that embellishes it. Leave the workshop with a completed medallion decorated with Iroquois raised beadwork and an understanding and appreciation of Iroquois history and culture. Beginning/Intermediate

WAD104 • Sat-Sun, 8:30am-4:45pm • $300 • Materials fee $15 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Karen Ann Hoffman, a member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, is a beadwork student of Sam Thomas and Lorna Hill of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. Click for bio»

Laser Art

Learn how to etch designs into glass, ceramic, wood, and more with lasers. Using computer software including CorelDraw® and Adobe® Photoshop® Elements, prepare projects for the Epilog laser. You’ll also learn about different makes and types of lasers and what can and can't be done with a Co2 laser. Laser your own designs on mirrors, ceramic tiles, mugs, jeans! A working knowledge of the software mentioned above is helpful. Equipment courtesy of Epilog Laser. Intermediate

WAD105 • Sat-Sun, 8:30am-4:45 • $240 • Materials: $10 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Pat Guilday has been doing laser art for more than 15 years and sand carving for more than 28. He has taught at SOA for 13 years. Click for bio»

Luminous Layers: The Art of Painting with Beeswax

Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, involves using heated wax to which colored pigments are added. The liquid/paste is then applied to a surface—usually prepared wood, although other materials are often used. Encaustic art has seen a resurgence in popularity since the 1990s. This exciting class explains the history of encaustic painting, the basics of how to apply encaustic medium, encaustic paint, and proper fussing techniques. This is truly an exciting medium that will leave you wanting more. Beginning

WAD106 • Sat, 8:30am-4:45pm • $120 • Materials: $25 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Ashley Gordon is a Wisconsin native who has been painting for more than a decade. Originally educated in acrylic painting and sculpture, she transitioned into encaustics more than four years ago. Click for bio»

Painting With Pastels: A Journey Through the Seasons

Celebrate the seasons by painting with pastels (not oil pastels) and using your own landscape photos as inspiration. The first two days are an introduction to painting the four seasons, emphasizing composition and focal point. We’ll use the next three days to express the seasons in depth, exploring light and shadow. Learn how to create the illusion of three-dimensional space in a flowing, rhythmic composition. Beginning/intermediate

A107 • Sat-Wed • 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»
Weekend only option! WA107 • Sat-Sun • 8:30am-11:45am • $120

Instructor Diana Randolph, a professional artist for 30 years, has displayed her landscape paintings nationally. She teaches art workshops, writes poetry and fiction, and has had many instructional articles published. Click for bio»

Playing in the Dirt, or Mud Pies and So Much More

Have fun with clay! Learn the basics of hand-building, wheel-throwing, rolling clay for slab work, and glazing. Explore texturing devices like wall coverings, spools, chopsticks, kitchen utensils and more. Indulge your creativity and come away from the class with several pieces and a love of this art form. Beginning/intermediate

A108 • Sat-Wed • 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Materials: $35 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Torrey Youngstrum became interested in ceramics while earning her bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas at Austin. Click for bio»

Plein-Air Drawing and Painting: Landscapes and Buildings

Pack your materials, grab a portable chair, and explore the elements and techniques to help you achieve your personal expression of the landscapes. We combine Northwoods beauty with painting—using oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, or graphite. Study perspective in landscapes and buildings, and learn the techniques, theories, and methods in creating a believable and compelling painting. We'll head outdoors to paint at different beautiful sites. Intermediate/advanced

A109 • Sat-Wed • 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Pat Dobrinska teaches at different weeks-long workshops, including Lawrence University, Bjorklunden, School of the Arts, University of Wisconsin’s painting at Green Lake, and in Mexico. Click for bio»

Portrait Quilts

This class explores portrait quilts from a beginner’s perspective. We use a raw-edged fused applique technique to create simple skin, hair, and clothing to make a portrait in fabric. Learn how to make a self-portrait by selecting fabrics to match your personal coloring, create a piece for a family member, or make a whimsical or abstract portrait. We discuss facial features and hairstyle options, and embellishment ideas to enhance and finish quilt. Finished quilt size will be 18" x 18" including two small borders. Beginning/intermediate

WAD110 • Sun, 8:30am-4:45pm • $120 • Materials: $8-$18 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Laurie Ceesay is a fiber artist, teacher, and hairdresser with a degree in clothing, textiles, and design from UW-Stout. Click for bio»

Quilted Patchwork Vest

Learn the basics of making a quilted patchwork vest. We’ll use rotary cutting and strip piecing to create patchwork. We’ll spend much of our time working on the front of the vest, and you’ll leave with instructions for finishing the vest at home. Students with basic sewing skills—and a sense of humor—will get the most out of this workshop. Intermediate

MA111 • Mon-Wed • 8:30am-11:45am • $180 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Suzanne Myers Otto lives in Madison, WI and has been sewing since childhood. Wearable art is her favorite branch of the quilting tree. Click for bio»

Sheet Metal Jewelry

Learn the basic techniques to cut, patina, and texture different metals (primarily copper, bronze, and aluminum) as well as the basic skills required to make connections. We’ll also explore techniques for making original jewelry findings and connections from wire. Whether you’re a new or continuing student, you’ll leave class with a wide variety of original necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Beginning/intermediate

A112 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Materials: $15-$20 • Supply list & welcome letter»
Weekend only option! WA112 • Sat-Sun 8:30am-11:45am • $120 • Materials: $15-$20

Instructor Louise Schotz now teaches a wide variety of fiber arts, quilting, and jewelry classes in her studio in Irma, WI, following a career teaching high school chemistry. Click for bio»

Unleash Your Creativity

Think you're not a particularly creative person? Think again! Come play with words, clay, fabric, paper, and paint in a supportive environment designed to help you rediscover your creative spirit. Each day, we will experiment with a new medium, with an emphasis on process, not product. Our goal is to remember the joy of creation. We’ll also discuss ways to carve out time—and space—for creative pursuits. Beginning

WAD406 • Sat, 8:30am-4:45pm, $120 • Materials: $10 • Supply List & welcome letter»

Instructor Jennifer L.W. Fink is a working freelance writer who has previously taught at the School of the Arts and Moraine Park Technical College. She also teaches an online writing course, Feature Writing in the Digital Age, through UW-Madison’s Continuing Studies. Click for bio»

Watercolor: Where to From Here

Develop a personal painting direction with watercolor as we study and reflect upon both the contemporary and the timeless nature of watercolor. Discussion and demos will focus on historical and contemporary techniques and concepts, and their potential relevance to you. Along the way we’ll try to answer questions about the how, what, and why of painting. Find your personal style through a series of assignments crafted to encourage painters to extent their comfort zone, and find new avenues to explore. Intermediate/advanced

A113 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Amy Arntson is an emerita professor of art at UW-Whitewater. She earned a BFA in painting from Michigan State University and an MFA from UW-Milwaukee. She has taught at School of the Arts at Rhinelander since 2003. Click for bio»

Watermedia: Beyond Realism

If you draw and paint from photos or life but want to advance—this class is for you. Start a painting each day under the guidance of an experienced instructor who will demonstrate jump-start techniques like impressions, stamps, pouring, collage, and glazing. Expect light-hearted fun. Beginning/intermediate

D114 • Sat-Wed • 1:30pm-4:45pm • $300 • Materials: $10 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Mary Ann Inman is a practicing artist and teacher who graduated in 2000 from UW-Whitewater with BFA with an emphasis on painting. She has taught for UW-Madison Continuing Studies and through her own School of Eclectic Art for 12 years. Click for bio»

Watermedia: Fast and Furious

Choose any water-based media and join us for a fun-filled workshop! Bring your paints, brushes, palette, extra paper, and your sense of humor. We’ll also have additional supplies for your use. Warm-up exercises will help you paint fast, furiously, and with confidence. Expect to try your hand using fun techniques, interesting color combinations, and “other materials and stuff” to make spontaneous art. This is a very informal class—feel free to opt out of lectures, demos, and warm-up exercises to work in your own style and direction. This friendly and safe environment will have you leaving the workshop wishing it wasn’t over, and armed with inspiring ideas to try at home. Beginning/intermediate

A115 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Materials: $10 • Supply list & welcome letter»

You As Meaning Maker: Living the Actively Creative Life

“Genius means little more than the faculty of perceiving in an unhabitual way,” says William James. Creativity is dependent upon such psychological qualities as curiosity and confidence, and the techniques in this class will help you develop these qualities. You’ll dismantle habitual states that interfere with your creativity while releasing your creative genius by designing a personal intention and using the Mandala of Direct Experience™. Beginning/intermediate

A408 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Julie Tallard Johnson, MSW, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist who has maintained a private counseling and consultation service—Healing Services on the River—in Prairie du Sac, WI since 1995. She is author of 10 psycho-spiritual books, which have received many positive reviews and awards. Click for bio»

Culinary arts and nutrition

Comforting, Healthy Soups and Fresh Bread

Make beautiful breads and delicious soups to suit all seasons. You’ll learn about, make—and eat—bisques and cream soups, vegetable soups, summer soups, and hearty winter soups, as well as quick breads, traditional yeast breads, flat breads and pizzas, sweet and savory breads, and artisan breads. Mangez! Beginning

A201 • Sat-Wed • 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Materials: $25 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Dottie Reeder: “Food preparation has always been an important part of my life and I developed my lifelong interest in cooking and baking at a young age.” Over the years, Dottie has taught and given many presentations on various culinary topics. She is the author of From Blueberries to Wild Roses, a Northwoods cookbook utilizing wild foods native to her Northern Wisconsin home. Click for bio»

From Head to Toe: What Your Body is Telling You

Your body is constantly sending you signals about your health. Some of these signs are quite evident to you: your nails, spots on the skin, even the quality and color of your stool! Some signs are more subtle: quality of sleep, quality of digestion, sex drive. Gain an increased understanding of anatomy and physiology as we walk through the body from head to toe and explore some of these signs so you better understand what they mean and what potential actions you can take. Beginning

WA202 • Sun, 8:30am-11:45am • $60 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Bernard Rosen is the founder of Rosen Wellness, LLC. He is an Ayurvedic lifestyle educator and a ParaYoga® Level II certified yoga instructor, achieving the highest level of recognition from Yoga Alliance as an RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher) 500. Click for bio»

Meet Your Hormones

What’s controlling all aspects of your life and you may not even know it? Your hormones! They control, manage, direct, and define every aspect of your daily life. Are you tired, lacking the “get up and go” that you used to have, struggling with emotions, or gaining weight? These are just a few of the signs that your hormones may be out of balance. In this workshop you’ll learn about all the major endocrine glands, the hormones they produce, the effects of these hormones on your body, and ways to better balance and improve hormone function. Beginning

WD203 • Sun, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $60 • Supply list & welcome letter»

What the Heck Should I Eat and Why

We'll review the basics of nutrition—proteins, carbohydrates, and fat, and what they do in the body. Through this class you'll better understand the biological processes of the body and learn how to start—and maintain—a healthy diet. We will also take a “virtual field trip” to a health food store; an actual field trip may be possible. Beginning

WD204 • Sat, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $60 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Digital media

Adobe® Photoshop® Elements: Basic

In this computer class, we’ll start each day with a quick rundown of a popular Photoshop® tool. We will then take the second half of each day practicing what we’ve learned; using each tool, one at a time, building our knowledge as we go. We’ll cover everything from cropping and straightening, to removing blemishes and making dull skies blue! Leave class with a photo collage or greeting cards for friends and family. Beginning/Intermediate

D301 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Dennis McGill has been working as a professional photographer since 1970 and operated his own portrait studio in Rhinelander for more than 25 years. Click for bio»

Artistic Available Light Photography

Good lighting is essential to creating artistic photographs, whether they’re going to be printed and displayed, or used as models for other art forms. This class will demonstrate simple but effective methods of seeing the direction of light and how to look for locations that will regularly provide directional light for photography. You’ll learn how to manipulate existing light patterns to improve the situation you face both indoors and outdoors, and then use your cameras most effectively to capture an extraordinary image of any subject. Beginning/Intermediate

A302 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list and welcome letter»

Instructor Phillip Zeisemer, co-owner of Phil Ziesemer Photography in Merrill, has taught photography and digital media classes at the School of the Arts since 2010. Click for bio»

Create a Visual Memoir

A303 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Mastering Your Digital Camera by Learning and Doing

While this workshop does include some classroom time, our true aim is "on location learning.” We'll explore histograms, white balance, and file size and format; and you'll get the camera knowledge you need to handle any photographic subject including wildlife, sports, scenic, and close-up photography. We’ll also study the basics like the Rule of Thirds, the “S” curve , leading lines, symmetry—and when black and white is better than color. Beginning/intermediate

A304 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Dennis McGill has been working as a professional photographer since 1970 and operated his own portrait studio in Rhinelander for more than 25 years. Click for bio»

Take Your Photos to the Next Level

This computer class will introduce you to software and techniques to elevate the level of your digital photographs from banal to exciting! A good working knowledge of the latest version ofAdobe® Photoshop® Elements is essential for success in this class as you’ll learn how to create artwork that shows how you feel about the scene you photographed, rather than just what you saw. We will be using the user-friendly software from Topaz Labs. Intermediate/advanced

D305 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Phillip Zeisemer, co-owner of Phil Ziesemer Photography, Ltd. in Merrill, has taught 6 photography and digital media classes at the School of the Arts since 2010. Click for bio»

Mind/body/spirit

Exploring Spiritual Archetypes

MD401 • Mon-Wed, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $180 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Finding Joy In What Is

The writer Anais Nin once said, “We don't see the world as it is, we see the world as we are." But what if we don't like the view from that particular window? Come learn to shift your perspective and learn to love what is as it is—and take appropriate action when life and circumstances demand it. Through lecture, writing, discussion, meditation, and visual journaling, we will explore the gift of fear, transforming lack into abundance, letting go of over-care and overwhelm, accessing the present moment, accepting what is, prioritizing and living your intentions, the spiritual solution to every problem, and more. Beginning/intermediate

WD402 • Sat-Sun • 1:30pm-4:45pm • $120 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Mindful Poetry—Attentiveness in Creative and Spiritual Life

Cultivate inner listening and use what rises up as a source for creativity. We will explore stillness, solitude, silence, and sanctuary, and how these qualities connect to our writing and spiritual consciousness. We will view landscapes on the computer screen with meditative poetry. We will reflect on the poetry of minimal language to move from the natural world to metaphorical layers of the inner life, as do many contemporary writers. We will do simple mind/body exercises to enhance our creativity. We will read and contemplate work by Mary Oliver, David Whyte, Jane Hirshfield, Rumi, Wislawa Szymborska, Basho, and others. The class is for ALL skill levels.

F612 • Sat-Wed, 3:15pm-4:45pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Mary Sue Koeppel is the author of Between the Bones, Poems; In the Library of Silences: Poems of Loss; Writing Strategies Plus Collaboration; and Write Your Life: the Memory Catcher. Click for bio»

Rejuvenation and Relaxation

Our lives are busy, hectic, and stressful. This workshop offers the tools you need to manage your stress, and each technique takes fewer than 10 minutes per day! Learn the Five Rites of Rejuvenation, also known as The Five Tibetans. These are five exercises to be performed in the morning. The second tool is breathing and visualization techniques to calm the body and mind. This class does involve physical movement similar to yoga, so participants should be healthy enough to perform these movements. Beginning/intermediate

WA403 • Sat, 8:30am-11:45am • $60 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Soulful Aging

Open yourself up to midlife and beyond, recognizing it as an unprecedented period of growth, fulfillment, and self-empowerment. Learn how to focus on positive aspects of aging that transcend culture, age, and time. Come for just the weekend and focus on the concepts of soulful aging and releasing fear, or stay for the week and explore cultivating connection and flow, redefining purpose, and choosing peace. Beginning

A404 • Sat-Wed • 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»
Weekend only option! WA404 • Sat-Sun, 8:30am-11:45am • $120

Spiritual Journaling

Journals can be the “field notes” of the artist and writer, a place to explore and uncover creative ideas. Discover for yourself more creative and spiritual potential through the use of journal writing and transformative mandalas. Uncover more creative energy, ideas, and possibilities through journaling prompts. You will develop personal and lasting inspiration through the methods in this class. “Don’t die” as Benjamin Disraeli predicts most do, “with the music still locked up inside of you.”
Beginning/intermediate

D405 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Unleash Your Creativity

WAD406 • Sat, 8:30am-4:45pm, $120 • Materials: $10 • Supply List & welcome letter»

Yoga For Every Body

Yoga is for every body. In this workshop, you'll learn fundamental yoga poses and strengthening, balance, and stretching exercises. We'll also spend some time at the end of each class in guided relaxation. Rejuvenate at the end of your day. Emphasis will be on non-mystical, accessible yoga for everyday use. Each class format will be very similar, but within each class, new poses and stretches will be incorporated at a gradual pace.

V407 • Sat-Wed, 5pm-6pm • $50 • Supply list & welcome letter»
Weekend only option! WV407 • Sat-Sun, 5pm-6pm • $20

Instructor Jane Banning has been teaching yoga for 2 years, and as a person over 55, has learned how to adapt classes not only for her own body’s changing needs, but also for students of varying levels. Click for bio»

You As Meaning Maker: Living the Actively Creative Life

A408 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Performing arts

Acoustic Guitar: Intro to the Blues

Learn the basics of this vital part of American Music—blues bass lines, chords and slides, and the scales and rhythms needed for soloing. Along the way we’ll try out standard blues, minor blues, and country blues using typical songs. You should know basic chords and strums. Music provided in standard notion and tablature. Beginning/intermediate

C501 • Sat-Wed, 10:15am-11:45am • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Christopher Powers has worked as a professional acoustic musician for more than 30 years. He teaches private lessons through his home studio and the Madison Music Guitar Store, and in 2011 taught 11 adult group courses through UW-Madison Continuing Studies. Click for bio»

Acting and Improvisation: Exploring Fictional Characters and Ourselves

Acting is what we do in a play, and play is the essential element of acting. Improvisation is acting spontaneously, in the moment, without lines, without the safety net of a script and rehearsals. Actors strive to ‘live’ in the moment within their roles, to appear to be improvising, while improv artists want to ad lib a meaningful succession of moments that add up to some kind of truth, like a play does. Both are explorations into self-knowledge, character, psychology, and the human heart. As a writer, you can deepen your understanding of your and other’s characters through acting. And acting can help teachers and public speakers feel more relaxed in their skin. Join us for this safe, low risk, often hilarious workshop. Beginning

F502 • Sat-Wed, 3:15pm-4:45pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Bob Curry has MFA degrees in both acting (SMU Professional Theater Training Program) and Fiction (Vermont College). He has been a professional actor for 30 years. Click for bio»

Bluegrass Ensemble: The Music of Bill Monroe

This ensemble class is open to all instruments and singers as we focus on the songs and instrumentals of the Father of Bluegrass, Bill Monroe. In addition to playing rhythm and backup, more advanced players will learn Monroe's unique melodies and approaches to instrumental solos. Singers will learn bluegrass harmony. Intermediate

B503 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-10am • $150 • Supply list and welcome letter»

Creative Memoir Writing: Let’s Lie This Time!

Famous memoirs lie a lot. So why not you, too? Write, or rewrite, parts of your memoir with a unique voice, spinning the truth, or making up a “truth” from scratch. Let us embellish what you proudly did, but this time it is your personal story with a fiction that can create “what ifs,” e.g., you become a “Super Julia” with your own cooking show. Yes, the past can be fictionalized with tongue-in-cheek fantasy. Beginning/intermediate

C604 • Sat-Wed, 10:15am-11:45am • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Roger Keene has been involved in theatre for many years as an actor, director, and writer. His most recent work has been with The Milwaukee Public Theatre, touring Wisconsin with a musical he wrote on end-of-life issues. Click for bio»

Ditch Your Narrator and Find the Life in Your Story

Fiction by developing writers, and sometimes published writers, is often bogged down by a self-important narrator that tells us a lot of stuff we skip. The antidote? Practice writing drama. Dramatic writing forces the writer to SHOW, because films and plays are like life: all action and speech. Working with a purely neutral narrator immediately challenges us to write “in scene,” and that alone makes our writing more marketable. Writing drama helps us learn to throw away the crutch of the “telling” narrator, find the action in our story, and reveal three-dimensional characters through action and dialog. Whether you are a dramatist or fiction writer, join us to explore this ancient, vital form of literature, expand your toolbox and give your writing a blast of energy. Come prepared with pen and paper, or laptop, as we will write every day both in our workshop sessions and overnight. Intermediate

E605 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Bob Curry has MFA degrees in both acting (SMU Professional Theater Training Program) and Fiction (Vermont College). He has been a professional actor for 30 years, with seasons of classical repertory at American Players Theater in Spring Green, WI and The Old Globe in San Diego, CA. Click for bio»

Finding Your Voice Through the Native Flute

As an instrument, the Native American Flute helps one to get in touch with their feelings and unleash their creative selves. In this workshop we’ll play and improvise on this instrument that is indigenous to the land that is now called Wisconsin. Whether you've never played a musical instrument before, majored in music, or have joined us before, join us to find your musical voice and learn to perform an improvisation on this significant instrument. Flutes are available for rental or purchase. You may use your own flute if it is in the key of A minor and tuned to concert pitch A440. Beginning/intermediate

B504 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-10am • $150 • Flute rental $20, flute purchase $50 (you may bring your own native flute if you have one) • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Wade Fernandez (Wiciwen Apis-Mahwaew) is an international award-winning touring musician, recording artist, songwriter, and producer who performs with voice, guitar, and Native American flute. Click for bio»

Guitarists: Get Ready for the Stage

Want to take your guitar performance to another level? Learn improvisational (jam), songwriting, and performance techniques so you can share your music in front of others. Learn how to interact onstage with other musicians and gain confidence in your unique musical “voice”! Beginning/intermediate

C505 • Sat-Wed, 10:15am-11:45am • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

I Drum, You Drum: A Drum Circle

Gather and experience the ancient musical tradition of drumming. Experience rhythm and become reenergized! Returning drummers from last year will find new material and new friends! Come find your place in the circle. Beginning/intermediate

E506 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Judy Miller has taught music in public schools, taught piano privately for 24 years, and taught "I Drum, You Drum" at School of the Arts in 2012. Click for bio»

I Sing, You Sing

Come add your voice with others who love to sing and make beautiful music together! We’ll explore unison singing, canons, and some choir pieces requiring harmony. We’ll use tambourines, maracas, or other hand percussion to add some interest. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or simply sing for enjoyment, there is a place for you. Join the fun as we sing together. Beginning/intermediate

C507 • Sat-Wed, 10:15am-11:45am • $150 • Materials: $5 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Judy Miller has taught music in public schools, taught piano privately for 24 years, and taught “I Drum, You Drum” at School of the Arts in 2012. Click for bio»

Where’s the Humor in My Life—Everywhere!

There is a healing power in looking at life with humor. Sharp edges become smooth. We laugh more. Our group will study examples of what makes us laugh. Then we will write and present our own humorous writing. e.g., the absurd headlines of The Onion, the humor in Reader’s Digest, Gary Larson’s cartoons, the satire of “Saturday Night Live,” the fantasy of “The Twilight Zone,” some Theatre Games and ComedySportz. They are out of the ordinary, they exaggerate and are often illogical—they simply jump out at us with a new perspective and make us smile. Beginning/intermediate

E617 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Rogers Keene has been involved in theatre for many years as an actor, director, and writer. His most recent work has been with The Milwaukee Public Theatre, touring Wisconsin with a musical he wrote on end-of-life issues. Click for bio»

Writing

Acting and Improvisation: Exploring Fictional Characters and Ourselves

F502 • Sat-Wed, 3:15pm-4:45pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Bob Curry has MFA degrees in both acting (SMU Professional Theater Training Program) and Fiction (Vermont College). He has been a professional actor for 30 years. Click for bio»

Beginning Poetry with a Wisconsin Poet Laureate

Join Bruce Dethlefsen, Wisconsin Poet Laureate (2011-2012) for a one-day workshop that will cover what makes a good poem, inspiration, revision, and reading poetry aloud. Beginning*

WAD601 • Sat, 8:30am-4:45pm • $120 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Bruce Dethlefsen, Wisconsin Poet Laureate (2011-2012), is the author of two chapbooks, A Decent Reed and Something Near the Dance Floor. His full-length book, Breather, published by Fireweed Press, won an Outstanding Achievement Award in Poetry from the Wisconsin Library Association. Click for bio»

*Attending Beginning Poetry will qualify you to attend Advanced the next day

Advanced Poetry with a Wisconsin Poet Laureate

Join Bruce Dethlefsen, Wisconsin Poet Laureate (2011-2012) for a one-day workshop that will include higher level writing skills, critical revision, and reading poetry aloud. Intermediate/advanced

WAD602 • Sun, 8:30am-4:45pm • $120 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Bruce Dethlefsen, Wisconsin Poet Laureate (2011-2012). See above.

Chapter One Workshop

The first chapter is all-important in books, both to attract readers—and to acquire an agent or editor. Submit, in advance, the first chapter of your book, whether novel or memoir. In this workshop we’ll discuss each student’s chapter in depth, and you will also receive written critiques from the other students and a line-by-line edit and an overall thematic critique from the instructor. Intermediate/advanced

E603 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Kathie Giorgio started writing as soon as she could put pen to paper and her first story was published at the age of 15. She is an internationally known short story writer; her short stories and poetry have appeared in many literary magazines and anthologies. Click for bio»

Create a Visual Memoir

A303 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-11:45am • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Creative Memoir Writing: Let’s Lie This Time!

C604 • Sat-Wed, 10:15am-11:45am • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Ditch Your Narrator and Find the Life in Your Story

E605 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Five Days, Ten Poems

Whether you’re stuck in a rut, find the blank page daunting, or simply want to jumpstart your writing, this workshop provides a friendly space to create new work and develop fresh poetic insights. With a focus on creativity and play, we’ll explore tools and techniques that will encourage us to break out of our comfort zone in order to foster new work. Each day will begin with discussions of contemporary poems followed by relevant prompts and exercises to get you thinking in new ways and moving a little deeper into your work. By the end of the workshop, you will have 10 drafts of new poems to work on. Intermediate/advanced

C606 • Sat-Wed, 10:15am-11:45am • 150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Angela Voras-Hills earned her MFA in creative writing from the University of Massachusetts- Boston, where she taught creative writing and composition. She has served as fiction editor for Madison Review, managing editor of Breakwater Review, and reads poetry submissions for Ploughshares. Click for bio»

Getting Mona Lisa to Talk: Art Inspires Writing

This workshop will look at real and virtual art—paintings, photos, sculptures, etc.—and then write, using the art as inspiration for poetry or short, short (flash) fiction. We will explore 20 or more examples of famous collaborations, like Sexton’s “The Starry Night” inspired by Van Gogh’s painting by the same name. Our class may also respond to art created during School of the Arts. Because arts often inspire each other, this workshop will encourage and enrich that experience for writers. Intermediate/advanced

E607 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

I Want to Write, But …

Have you always wanted to write? This workshop is for anyone who would like to explore writing in a non-threatening, supportive environment. We’ll get the creative juices flowing, and play with words on the page. Each day will include at least one fun activity to get you writing—nothing long or scary, promise! This workshop will also include writing prompts and exercises, individual and group writing, and time to share works in progress. You’ll be able to identify personal obstacles to writing, and come away with strategies to move past writers’ block and at least three short pieces! Don't worry about your grammar or spelling. Don’t worry about what your high school English teacher said about your writing. Join us and experience the joy of writing. Beginning

WAD608 • Sun, 8:30am-4:45pm • $120 • Supply list & welcome letter»

The Life of a Poem: Resuscitation and Publication

Do you have a stack of poems waiting to be polished and published? Or perhaps you’ve revised the life out of a poem you once loved? In this workshop, we’ll discuss what we expect from a “good” poem and learn how to revise our poems based on those criteria. Each day, we’ll read contemporary poetry, and participants will share drafts with the group for encouragement, feedback, and guidance for revision. On the last day, we’ll discuss submitting poems for publication in literary magazines and other publication options. Bring your poems for revision and sharing. Intermediate/advanced

E609 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $150 • Supply list and welcome letter»

Memoirs, the Story Only You Can Tell: Getting Started

This is the one workshop you should take whether you 1) have a whopper of a story you want to tell the world, 2) wish your children and your grandchildren to better know who you are and what you have lived for, or 3) simply desire to gain from the life behind you the wisdom to mold the life still before you. More than just helpful writing tips, this session will provide you with five methods for gathering and structuring material and the means to best hook the reader, as well as determine the pivotal scene that will create the greatest dramatic climax. You will not only discover what to include and what to exclude, but leave the workshop with an action plan and timeline for accomplishing your goals, plus enough experience with the elements of scenes to start you well on your way. This workshop is appropriate for both beginning and intermediate writers; for those who have begun their manuscript as well as for those who have thought about it but have not yet started. Beginning/intermediate

E610 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor John Lehman is the founder and first publisher of Rosebud, a national magazine of short stories, poetry, and illustration for people who enjoy good writing. He is a nationally published writer and poet with 25 years of experience teaching creative writing. Click for bio»

Memoirs, the Story Only You Can Tell: Polish to Publish

We’ll expand on what we've learned and accomplished earlier. Topics will include altering the order of scenes to increase reader involvement and interest, advantages and disadvantages of different points of view (and how to find the one that’s right for you), and the technique of changing the vantage point within the point of view you choose. We'll also discuss a tool that helps you identify the major and minor dramatic conflicts in your life, and packaging what you’ve written to gain readers and publishers. Intermediate/advanced

F611 • Sat-Wed, 3:15pm-4:45pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Mindful Poetry—Attentiveness in Creative and Spiritual Life

F612 • Sat-Wed, 3:15pm-4:45pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

The Novel: Advanced Concepts

Your novel is solid, yet—something’s missing. Some scenes seem thin; they lack passion or drama. You can counteract that by consistently hinting at an arc for every character. You can add metaphor, too—a tool few novelists exploit. A dialogue about dialogue would also help, which is a plan for one of our days together. You’ll also spend time assessing external and internal scenery and the relationship between them. Finally you’ll discover ways to deal with the devil in the details. Advanced

C615 • Sat-Wed, 10:15am-11:45am • 150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Dr. Laurel Yourke, UW-Madison Emeritus, is the author of Take Your Characters to Dinner, on the craft of fiction, and Waiting for Beethoven, a poetry collection. Click for bio»

Poetry Without Tears

Poetry’s not just for English majors. Get the keys to unlock its doors. Enjoy—rather than study!—its delicious secrets. We’ll focus on reading poetry. But if you write poetry, or want to, remember that it’s hard to write good poetry unless you’re adept at reading it. This will be an all-new, no-repeat event featuring both contemporary and traditional selections. You just might fall in love—with the written word. And there’s no homework! Intermediate/advanced

B614 • Sat-Wed, 8:30am-10am • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Instructor Dr. Laurel Yourke, UW-Madison Emeritus. See above.

Short Story Workshop

Short stories are a viable part of the fiction world, and it is absolutely necessary to publish short stories if you want to go on to publish a novel. In this workshop, we will focus on the short story. Submit a short story (up to 5,000 words) in advance. We’ll read each other's work and discuss it in the workshop, as well as give every student a written critique. From the instructor, the students will receive a line-by line-edit and an overall thematic critique, including if the story is ready for professional submissions. Intermediate/advanced

C616 • Sat-Wed, 10:15am-11:45am • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Spiritual Journaling

D405 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-4:45pm • $300 • Supply list & welcome letter»

Unleash Your Creativity

WAD406 • Sat, 8:30am-4:45pm, $120 • Materials: $10 • Supply List & welcome letter»

Where’s the Humor in My Life—Everywhere!

E617 • Sat-Wed, 1:30pm-3pm • $150 • Supply list & welcome letter»