Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
Topsham, ME
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Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education Classes
Abstract Studio: Dimensional Models or Miniatures
with Ed Higgins, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
This term the abstract atelier will be exploring a series of small, polychromed dimensional works. These may be free standing or wall mounted. You may consider these models for larger gallery installations, or as fully realized abstract art objects in miniature. You will begin by sketching your ideas in your sketchbook. Then you’ll start building these works out of cardboard, wood, plastic, textile, or a combination thereof. Add color to the pieces any way you choose. The last class we’ll display them and have a final critique of your projects. *No Class: 4/20 & 5/25.
Intro to Ukulele
with Nina Andersen, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
The ukulele is one of the easiest ways to try making music for the first time or learn a new instrument. In this class we’ll start with 4-5 basic chords that can be used to play lots of popular and familiar tunes and build from there. We’ll cover how to tune, strum and singalong. No prior musical experience required and all levels are welcome! Nina Andersen has 30 years of experience facilitating and supporting adults making music at whatever level they can. Bring your own uke or contact the instructor for details on where to purchase one. *No Class: 4/20.
Bao Down to Flavor: Mastering Char Siu Bao
with Jeff Mao, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
In this hands-on cooking class, you’ll dive deep into the art of making Chinese Steamed Char Siu Bao, the beloved fluffy buns filled with savory Chinese BBQ pork. Learn the secrets of creating the perfect bao dough from scratch. Jeff will guide you through each step, from mixing and kneading to proofing, ensuring you achieve that perfect pillowy texture. Master the rich and flavorful char siu filling. Discover the blend of spices and techniques that make this BBQ pork so irresistible. Take a culinary journey through history as we explore the legend of how bao were first invented. You’ll hear captivating stories that add a cultural dimension to your cooking experience. By the end of the class, you’ll not only have a batch of delicious Char Siu Bao to enjoy but also the skills and knowledge to recreate this traditional treat at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this class promises to be a fun and educational adventure. All ingredients and equipment provided. Allergen Info: Contains soy and gluten.
Mixed Media Watercolor Meetup
with Catherine Scanlon, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
Keep the creativity flowing with Catherine in this laid-back, paint-night–style watercolor workshop! Each session brings a fresh mix of color experiments, playful techniques, and mixed media magic — think watercolor with a twist of ink, pencil, or other fun materials. You’ll start with a quick color-mixing sheet to get those creative juices going, then dive into a new technique designed to expand your skills and spark inspiration. It’s all about relaxing, learning something new, and enjoying the creative process together! All materials included — just show up ready to paint and play! Each session is a standalone workshop, with a $20 materials fee due to the instructor for each session. The materials fee covers everything you’ll need.
Joy of Watercolor 2
with Deena Ball, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
This class is designed for students with some watercolor experience. While you don't need to be advanced, participants should have basic familiarity with watercolor painting. The course accommodates various skill levels while maintaining a focus on fundamental techniques. Students will also explore the work of contemporary and historical watercolorists. During the second hour, students work on personal projects with individual guidance. You may choose between a quick project focused on the day's topic or continue developing a longer-term piece. Materials list will be provided by the instructor. Students who repeat this class will not be doing the same projects as the fall. *No Class: 4/20.
Map and Compass Fundamentals (Level 1)
with Alice Bean Andrenyak, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
Hike, snowshoe, geocache, hunt, and enjoy the woods and fields of Maine with confidence that you can read a topographic map, understand the symbols, know which way a river flows, plot a course bearing, use online resources, and how to get to safety. Familiarization to using a compass and map outdoors included. Students must have a DeLorme Maine Gazetteer, and a 2-degree baseplate compass. This course is offered via Zoom over two sessions. This is a LEVEL 1 program.
The Art of Storytelling
with Violet Hart, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
In this 8-week course, we'll explore the many different ways to tell stories, from fiction and non-fiction prose to comic books, movies, and everything in between. We'll dive into the fundamental skills and habits that will make you a skilled storyteller, and how to manage the obstacles that every creative writer faces at one time or another. This course is open to storytellers, writers, and artists of all levels. *No Class: 4/20.
Tai Chi for Flexibility and Balance II
with Carlos Collado, Merrymeeting Community & Adult Education
This 15 week course is designed to be easy, safe and effective to learn. It enhances the body's energetic system thus practicing the form improves almost all aspects of health. Over 10 scientific studies show it to relieve pain, maintains and improves health and the overall quality of life. Almost anyone of any physical condition can begin and continue to progress regardless of age. Practicing this form will help to improve your balance, flexibility, reduce falls, reduce stress, improve muscular strength, fitness, serenity and enhance your mind-body connection. Prerequisite: Tai Chi for Flexibility and Balance I or experience with the Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention series. *No Class: 4/21.