Enjoy a weekend with your instructor, Chris Toy, the author of 6 popular cookbooks, a private chef, and has taught Asian-fusion cooking for several Maine community education programs. Learn how to prepare a variety of recipes from Asia, Europe, and the Americas incorporating traditional and local ingredients. Each meal will actively engage cooks with the tools, techniques, and stories behind the dishes being created. 

Escape to a Grand Victorian Inn, the Harbor View House in Prospect Harbor on the coast of Maine, with an intimate group of artist, cooks and creatives! All meals are included in the workshop fee plus special activities to extend your learning from the day’s workshops, including a private house concert by Grammy balloted sing-songwriter, storyteller, and author Gordon Ward. Day students are welcome. For more information about the workshop, call Mary at 207-632-2251. To book your stay at the inn call 207-963-9122 or visit https://harborviewhousellc.com/.  This is an in-person retreat.

Your instructor, Chris Toy, is the author of 6 popular cookbooks, a private chef, and has taught Asian fusion cooking for several Maine community education programs. Cooking students will learn how to prepare a variety of recipes from Asia, Europe, and the Americas, incorporating traditional and local ingredients. Each meal will actively engage cooks with the tools, techniques, and stories behind the dishes being created. $595 includes a workshop fee, all meals, and special activities to extend your learning from the day’s workshops. 

Recent Acadian Arts Retreats participants commented: “I learned so much from Chris that I can use immediately at home in my own kitchen.”  “Great kitchen hints!”.

Escape to a Victorian Inn, the Harbor View House in Prospect Harbor on the coast of Maine, with an intimate group of artists, cooks and creatives! All meals are included in the workshop fee plus special activities to extend your learning from the day's workshops, including a private house concert by Grammy balloted singer-songwriter, storyteller, and author Gordan Ward. For more information about the workshop, call Mary at 207-632-2251. To book your stay at the inn call 207-963-9122 or visit https://harborviewhousellc.com

Feedback from recent participants: "I learned so much from Chris that I can use immediately at home in my own kitchen." "Great kitchen hints!"

Your instructor, Mary Laury, is an accomplished watercolorist and highly esteemed teacher. She encourages all her students to believe they can be successful. Painting is an exciting medium; it flows, moves, and does beautiful things. We will start at the beginning if you have never painted in watercolors. If you have painted before, you will also learn new tips and tricks. We all learn together! $595 includes the workshop fee, all meals, and special activities to extend your learning from the day's workshops. 

Recent Acadian Arts Retreats participants commented: "Great instructor! Mary acts as a guide to develop our own style. "Easy, no-stress instruction."

Escape to a Victorian Inn, the Harbor View House in Prospect Harbor on the coast of Maine, with an intimate group of artists, cooks and creatives! All meals are included in the workshop fee plus special activities to extend your learning from the day's workshops, including a private house concert by Grammy balloted singer-songwriter, storyteller, and author Gordan Ward. For more information about the workshop, call Mary at 207-632-2251. To book your stay at the inn call 207-963-9122 or visit https://harborviewhousellc.com

Feedback from recent Acadian Arts Retreats participants: 

“Mary is a wonderful guide and a gifted teacher.”  “Very helpful watercolor instruction."

Your instructor, Mary Laury, is an accomplished watercolorist and highly esteemed teacher. She encourages all her students to believe they can be successful. Painting is an exciting medium; it flows and moves and does beautiful things. If you have neverpainted in watercolors, we will start at the beginning. If you have painted before, you will pick up some new tips and tricks as well. We all learn together!

Escape to a Victorian Inn, the Harbor View House in Prospect Harbor on the coast of Maine, with an intimate group of artist, cooks and creatives! All meals are included in the workshop fee plus special activities to extend your learning from the day’s workshops, including a private house concert by Grammy balloted sing-songwriter, storyteller, and author Gordan Ward. For more information about the workshop, call Mary at 207-632-2251. To book your stay at the inn call 207-963-9122 or visit https://harborviewhousellc.com/.

There is a $60 non-refundable fee when you sign up through RSU 24 Adult Education

Painting Flower Portraits in Watercolor

Paint flower portraits realistically. You will paint pictures of flowers in detail, but more painterly than a scientific illustration. We won’t count veins, but we will count petals! Painting flowers is a wonderful exercise in observation.

Learn brush stroke and value

White on white flowers

Leaves, long and short

Iris, narcissus, orchids, tulips, and other spring flowers.

 Materials list;

We will paint on smooth paper; Strathmore Series 500, one hundred percent cotton paper, either plate or vellum. This paper can be bought at Artist and Craftsman in Portland in large sheets, which we will cut up.

Bring a #2 round brush and a #6 round brush, pencil, palette, tube watercolors in the 3 primary colors and perhaps a green. Paper towels and water container. And bring a plant or flower specimen with no more than 9 petals. This is a slow and careful process and 9 petals and some leaves is enough happiness for us all.

Escape to a Grand Victorian Inn, the Harbor View House in Prospect Harbor on the coast of Maine, with an intimate group of artist, cooks and creatives! All meals are included in the workshop fee plus special activities to extend your learning from the day’s workshops, including a private house concert by Grammy balloted singer-songwriter, storyteller, and author Gordon Ward. Day students are welcome.

For more information about the workshop, call Mary at 207-632-2251. To book your stay at the inn call 207-963-9122 or visit https://harborviewhousellc.com/.  

Please note that this training consists of 2 days in the classroom  on a weekend with a 2 hour range session on either a Monday or Tuesday. Call the Adult Education office to register for this class. 422-4794

Over two 3.5 hour sessions in a safe women’s only environment, you will learn the mindset and skills to protect yourself and those that you care deeply about with and without a firearm. You will learn or review about firearms and how to choose, the basics of handling a firearm and then about self-defense. Learn the difference between accurate target shooting and defensive shooting. Practice will be inside the classroom using SIRT pistols (laser only shooting pistols), but you will be seriously challenged. Holsters and special clothing will be used.

A $35 textbook is included. No firearms are to be brought to class.

This course meets Concealed Carry Permit application requirements. Two 3.5 hour classroom sessions plus a two-hour semi-private range instruction at Blue Hill Rifle and Pistol Club will cost $65 payable to the instructor. You'll sign up for your shooting lesson at the first class.

Please note that this training consists of 2 days in the classroom  on a weekend with a 2 hour range session on either a Monday or Tuesday. Call the Adult Education office to register for this class. 422-4794

In a non-threatening safe environment with no live ammunition present, learn the basics of: handgun safety at home; how to handle a pistol safely; parts of a pistol and ammunition; fundamentals of pistol shooting including holding, stance and aiming; common malfunctions; cleaning; and selecting a pistol just right for you. No firearms are to be brought to class. You will be shooting in class using a SIRT Laser Pistol.

A two-hour semi-private range time is separately scheduled (at the Blue Hill Rifle and Pistol Club either 9/15 or 9/16) and has a separate fee of $65 payable to the instructor. At the range, you’ll fire either your own pistol or one from the instructor and try to put five rounds of ammunition through 4 separate target circles at ten feet using only 20 rounds. You will need 50 rounds of ammunition for your personal handgun. If “renting” a pistol from the instructor, she will have 50 rounds of ammunition for you for an additional cost of $25.

To pass this nationally rated course and get certified you must: attend all sessions and actively participate, pass a written examination, and pass the ten-foot shooting qualification, all within two weeks of the last class session.

A $30 textbook is included.

Certification can be used to apply for a Concealed Carry Permit.

Join us for an exciting and engaging Beginners Photography Class at SAD 1, held every Tuesday night from 6 PM to 8 PM! This class is designed for those who want to explore the art of photography, whether you're a complete novice or looking to sharpen your skills.

Throughout the course, we will delve into various photography styles, focusing on landscapes and macro/close-up photography. You'll learn how to look at the world through a photographer's eye, discovering the beauty in everyday scenes and intricate details.

Our sessions will cover essential topics, including:

- *Composition:* Understand the fundamental principles of framing your shots to create visually appealing images.

- *Lighting:* Learn how to harness natural and artificial light to enhance your photographs and set the mood.

- *Camera Operation:* Gain hands-on experience with your camera, mastering its settings and features for optimal results.

Each week, we'll combine discussions, demonstrations, and practical exercises to ensure a well-rounded learning experience. Whether you’re capturing sweeping landscapes or the delicate beauty of a flower petal, you’ll develop the skills and confidence to express your artistic vision through your lens.

Join us for an inspiring journey into the world of photography, and start capturing the moments that matter! All skill levels are welcome, and participants are required to bring their own cameras. We look forward to seeing you there!

***DO NOT PAY UNTIL AUGUST 2025***

About our teacher:

Jason Grass is a talented and accomplished photographer known for his artistic vision and dedication to the craft. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Maine, Jason has cultivated a strong foundation in the principles of design and visual storytelling. His academic background has provided him with the tools necessary to explore and express his creativity through photography.

Throughout his career, Jason has had the privilege of training under master photographers from around the world. These experiences have not only refined his technical skills but also broadened his artistic perspective, allowing him to develop a unique style that resonates with audiences. His commitment to continuous learning and growth in the field has positioned him as a respected figure among peers and within the photography community.

As a former member of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), Jason has been actively involved in promoting excellence in the photography profession. His participation in this esteemed organization reflects his dedication to maintaining high standards in his work and contributing to the overall advancement of the industry.

Jason's portfolio showcases a diverse range of subjects and styles, from stunning landscapes to portraits. His ability to capture the essence of moments and emotions has earned him recognition and appreciation from clients and fellow photographers alike. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Jason continues to push the boundaries of his craft, creating compelling images that leave a lasting impression. In addition to his photography, Jason is an advocate for the arts, often engaging in community projects and workshops aimed at inspiring the next generation of creatives. Through his work and mentorship, he aspires to share his knowledge and passion for photography, fostering a love for the art form in others. As he looks to the future, Jason Grass remains committed to his journey as a photographer, constantly seeking new challenges and opportunities to grow. With an impressive background and a passion for the craft, he is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of photography.