When was the last time you did something creative? Doodling in your margins doesn’t count, nor does helping your friend workshop an Instagram caption.
Was it a long time ago? Maybe even middle school? Here at A&E, we’re sad for you — it’s important to let your creativity flow!
So here’s an idea: take a class. Dedicate a couple hours to your right brain and leave with something you’re proud of.
And if you’re going to go … invite us. We need this too!
Renaissance Drawing and Painting Techniques
Oh, you’re a renaissance man? Prove it! In this class, students will learn time honored techniques through a structured program based on an “accurate historical perspective.”
How cool would a roommate portrait be in your living room? So cool.
Where: The Art Academy, 651 Snelling Ave. S., St. Paul
When: Spring session begins this week, summer session begins in June
How much: $190
Hand Sewing 101: Leather
Did you know that it takes years of high-quality experience to even be considered to make a Birkin bag? Best start your training now.
Merchant Leather makes beautiful things — bags, wallets, glasses cases. Learn from the best and make a piece just as lovely without as steep a price tag.
Where: Merchant Leather, class locations vary
When: Dates vary (the next is May 3)
How much: $50
Jewelry classes
Beads beads beads! It might be tempting to grab some fast fashion-y doodads at H&M, but head to Lotus instead and create something unique.
Make your own wire wisp ring or crystal ball necklace, and if you don’t love it, use it as a mother’s day present.
Where: Lotus Beads and Jewelry, 368 North Garden Mall of America, 60 E. Broadway, Bloomington
When: Dates vary
How much: $10 – $35
Figure Drawing Co-op
Twice a week at Minneapolis College of Art and Design, nude models come and pose for everyone and anyone interested in a little sketching practice.
While MCAD staff is there to supervise, no instruction is provided. Snag a supplied easel, bring your charcoal and embrace the curves.
Where: MCAD, Room 109, 2451 Stevens Ave., Minneapolis
When: Sundays 1 – 5 p.m., Mondays 7 – 9 p.m.
How much: $5 – $6
Embroidered Photos
Not to diss all the lovely artists on Etsy, but yeah … you could probably make that. Or maybe — if you take this class — you could make something even cuter.
Use embroidery materials (go figure) to enhance your own personal photos. Just practice a little bit first — intermediate embroidery skills are a requirement.
Where: Textile Center, 3000 University Ave. S.E., Minneapolis
When: April 18, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
How much: $82
Beginner Mosaics Class
How many cheap wine glasses have you broken and thrown away? Those are important mementos of your college experience!
Save the broken glass and make a mosaic — just make sure to add a few other colors because that would be one boring piece otherwise.
Where: Mercury Mosaics, 1620 Central Ave. N.E., Minneapolis
When: Dates vary
How much: $80 (But there’s a Groupon right now for half off!)
Neon 1
Neon! How chic of you! You have taste like Kris Jenner, but it’s better because you’re DIY-ing.
Unfortunately, neon is no easy feat, so you’re going to have to get through this class before you sign up for the one where you actually make a piece.
I promise it’ll be worth it for the ambiance.
Where: Foci, 2010 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis
When: Wednesdays, 6 – 9 p.m., May 23 – June 27
How much: $450
Floral Design Introduction
Say it with me: no more grocery store bouquets!
Every month, Koehler and Dramm hosts a cheap introductory floral design class where students can learn floral design in an informal format and bring their work home. This month’s theme is “No Holding Back.” Think of the daffodils!
Where: Koehler and Dramm Institute of Floristry, 2407 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis
When: Dates vary
How much: $49
Needlework drop-in
Whether you’re new to the craft or hiding unfinished projects in a basket, Carmen Rowland will be your guide.
Every Tuesday, Rowland is on hand at Ingebretsen’s to help die-hards with whatever they might be stuck with, and lead newbies through material picking and introductory techniques. All the Scandinavian fun without the Nordic price tags.
Where: Ingebretsen’s Scandinavian Gifts, 1601 E. Lake St., Minneapolis
When: Tuesdays, 3 – 5 p.m.
How much: Free
Sip and sketch/paint/whatever
Know what? Sometimes you just want to go to a dang sip and paint. Don’t be embarrassed! They’re probably really fun, so we won’t judge you (maybe).
Where: Locations vary
When: Times vary
How much: Prices vary