Paint Night Special: Light, Quiet and Beauty of Maine Winter

PAINT NIGHT! Light, quiet and beauty! Saturday, February 22nd 6 to 9 PM!

Join us in an extraordinary evening in art and community! Lets paint the night away celebrating the light, quiet and beauty of Maine Winter! We will paint and compose together a gorgeous scene with snow, sumac and winter skies! Wine and light appetizers served. $45. To Register email or paypal helene@helenefarrar.com or paypal button below will register you and process your payment!

There is Still Time:)

Greetings Friends -
Hope you are having a beautiful summer so far. Its been gorgeous outside and beautiful activity inside the studio with young artists really blooming with the extra time and energy to focus. So much great work has been made, particularly by our young artists! Here is a shot of one of them going in deep to an abstract work and a sample of a stunning and interesting landscape painting created by young artists in our Mimic the Masters Camp.

It won't be too long where we are trading in our swim suits for sweaters. And we have an Open House planned for you as you lean into fall. New classes coming and new students of all ages welcomed! And the info is all here  - - - but feel free to reach me at (207) 485-5691 or drop into the studio at your convenience. And of course, email helene@helenefarrar.com

Mark Your Calendars for our FALL OPEN HOUSE on Wednesday, September 4th from 4:30 to 6:30!  See this great old house with four sun-filled studios, meet the instructor(thats me!), learn about our fall classes, check out the rich, art library and more!

Welcome and Welcome Back!

Thank you so much for visiting Catch the Artbug! It is my sincere pleasure to say hello and welcome you! This four-roomed studio is a lively, vibrant working and learning space in an old farmhouse in Manchester, Maine! Artists of all ages and all levels are encouraged and make work here.

Soap Carving, Watercolor, Hand-building with Clay, pastel, paper mache, moldmaking  - - - there is so much to do and explore. Join us for an after-school art class for kids, Wednesday watercolor group and come after the work day to our Thursday evening Open Studio. Please take a look at our fall schedule and see what might work for you and yours  - - - and feel free to reach out with any questions and if you'd like to schedule a studio visit. Email helene@helenefarrar.com  Call 485-5691 and speak to Helene (rhymes with Maine, sounds like HAH-lane).

Table View from a Workshop in Encaustics = beeswax paint

My name is Helene and I am the artist-in-residence here. Its hard to believe that I have been an Art Educator for over twenty years and I am STILL deeply passionate about art, teaching art with positivity, and working with my students individually. My formal training as an artist and art educator began at the University of Maine, but I also attended graduate school in Vermont at Goddard College where I received my Master of Fine Arts. My earliest learnings as an artist were from my extended family of artists, designers and engineers. In particular, it was my Mom who was both an artist, art educator and active community member who really pushed me and sometimes even lead my hand to be the enthusiastic instructor I am. And I really couldn't have "pulled this all off" without her encouragement:) Regarding my teaching experience, I have been fortunate to have a very rich and varied resume. More information about me at www.helenefarrar.com

Let's connect soon!

Helene in front of two encaustic paintings exhibited at the Saco Museum.

Best,
Helene

Our first session AMAZING ART Camp is FULL!

But join us for camp in July and August!

Summer Camp Schedule! Its here!

https://catchtheartbug.blogspot.com/p/workshops-fall-2014.html
REGISTER AT ABOVE LINK or follow to Website pages for Summer Camps!
Have any problems? Drop me a line at helene@helenefarrar.com or call 2074855691

Paint Night Friday, February 22nd "Cardinals, Trees, Snow, Oh My!"

Beat the Winter Blues and join us in an extraordinary, sassy and classy PAINT NIGHT evening LIKE NO OTHER at Hélène Farrar Art in Manchester! Get out of your winter funk and be a part of the fun on Friday, February 22nd from 6 to 9 PM! Learn about the wonderful Charley Harper and we will paint cardinals, trees and snow!!! And enjoy delicious heavy hors-d'oeuvres and wine from our Lighthouse in Manchester! 5% of Proceeds to Benefit the Maine Audubon! Paint the blues away  - - -  -Leave inspired! Cost is $45. Register below at Paypal Button! 

 

Art Club for 11 - 15 Year Olds!

ART CLUB especially designed for 11 to 15 year olds
Beginning on Thursday, September 26th from 530 - 630 PM, we will be introducing "Art Club". This group class is specially designed for intermediate artists in their middle years. With a focus on drawing, painting, design and modeling ---- this weekly intensive will help youngsters develop and strengthen skills, grow studio habits, and stretch the development of creative ideas. This is a perfect fit for young artists who are willing to grow independently but still need instruction, positive encouragement and the support of friends!  To register or sign-up please contact Helene directly at helene@helenefarrar.com or call (207) 485-5691.

This class will be ongoing throughout the year and it is open to all youth ages 11 to 15.  Open enrollment = children can join anytime. Students can come and go as family and season schedules permit. Tuition $20. / class  Young Artists can also receive a couple of slices of pizza for another 2 bucks!

To register, call Helene @ (207) 485-5691 or email Helene@helenefarrar.com

Student work in process of the Duomo in Florence, Italy

Welcome Back!

Thank you so much for visiting Catch the Artbug! It is my sincere pleasure to say hello and welcome you! This four-roomed studio is a lively, vibrant working and learning space in an old farmhouse in Manchester, Maine! Artists of all ages and all levels are encouraged and make work here.

Soap Carving, Watercolor, Hand-building with Clay, pastel, paper mache, moldmaking  - - - there is so much to do and explore. Join us for an after-school art class for kids, Wednesday watercolor group and come after the work day to our Thursday evening Open Studio. Please take a look at our fall schedule and see what might work for you and yours  - - - and feel free to reach out with any questions and if you'd like to schedule a studio visit. Email helene@helenefarrar.com  Call 485-5691 and speak to Helene (rhymes with Maine, sounds like HAH-lane).

Table View from a Workshop in Encaustics = beeswax paint

My name is Helene and I am the artist-in-residence here. Its hard to believe that I have been an Art Educator for over twenty years and I am STILL deeply passionate about art, teaching art with positivity, and working with my students individually. My formal training as an artist and art educator began at the University of Maine, but I also attended graduate school in Vermont at Goddard College where I received my Master of Fine Arts. My earliest learnings as an artist were from my extended family of artists, designers and engineers. In particular, it was my Mom who was both an artist, art educator and active community member who really pushed me and sometimes even lead my hand to be the enthusiastic instructor I am. And I really couldn't have "pulled this all off" without her encouragement:) Regarding my teaching experience, I have been fortunate to have a very rich and varied resume. More information about me at www.helenefarrar.com

Let's connect soon!

Helene in front of two encaustic paintings exhibited at the Saco Museum.

The CURE for Cabin Fever!

Details below for PAINT NIGHT, Early Start in Art, and Introduction to Encaustic Painting!

Paint Night  - - - - Marsden Hartley and Maine's Mountain!
Friday, March 2nd 6 to 9 PM!

Please join us in an extraordinary, sassy and classy PAINT NIGHT evening LIKE NO OTHER at Hélène Farrar Art in Manchester! Get out of your winter funk and be a part of the fun on Friday, March 2nd from 6 to 9 PM! Learn about the wonderful Maine Artist Marsden Hartley and we will paint the mountains, and the light!!!! And enjoy delicious heavy hors-d'oeuvres and wine from our Lighthouse. Paint the blues away  - - -  -Leave inspired! Cost is $45. Register here.

Early Start in Art! For Young Artists Ages 3,4,5
STARTS Friday, March 9th! Join us for 5 weeks from 9 - 945 AM! 
Art helps small children develop mentally, socially, and emotionally plus it boosts small children's ability to analyze, and problem-solve in a myriad of ways! And why not help your littles self-confidence sky rocket? So join us - we'll explore the basics of color, line and shape while we play with paint, clay and more! And great fun for the grown ups too - good coffee included!

  

Register Here for "Crash Course in Encaustic Painting" Sunday, March 18th 10 AM to 3 PM

What are encaustics? How do artist’s use encaustics? What is the history of encaustics? Learn this, plus how to layer, fuse and make a variety of marks in this seductive medium. Learn painterly approaches plus how to etch and scrape into the surface. Take your flat collections such as your drawings, collected papers, pictures and embellish them into the wax! Leave with two small finished paintings and artistic inspiration!

We will also briefly touch on proper studio ventilation, wax safety, and how to “finish” artworks in terms of framing and care. Class time will be divided between demonstrations, individual work time, and discussion.

NEW FALL SCHEDULE IS LIVE!

Hello Friends. We hope you are still having a wonderful summer. Our new schedule is live here. Classes for Kids Afterschool, Early Start in Art, Teen Open Studio, and Classes for Adults. Woo hoo!
Look online here to register and to become a part of it! Feel free always to reach out to Helene by phone (207) 485-5691 or email Helene@helenefarrar.com

Paint Night Friday, June 23rd 6 to 9 PM! Featuring Flowers and learning about the Artist Georgia O'Keeffe

Please join us in an extraordinary and classy PAINT NIGHT evening at Hélène Farrar Art in Manchester! It's Friday, June 23rd from 6 to 9 PM!  We will paint gorgeous Calla Lilies and enjoy delicious heavy hors-d'oeuvres and wine from our Lighthouse. Learn about the American Artist Georgia O'Keeffe, her life story, paint practice and inspirations.... and paint the night away  - - -  -Leave inspired! Cost is $45. Register here.

Warmer Weather = Spring Art Show, Classes and Art Camps to Look Forward to!

JOIN US!

Our children's Student Art Show "Coloring Outside the Lines" is now ON! Come by and see it!

Register Here for Early Start in Art! STARTS Thursday, April 6th!

Register Here for "Crash Course in Encaustic Painting"

Saturday, April 29th 10 AM to 2 PM!

And.... Art Camp for Kids! REGISTER at the Summer Camp Page

http://catchtheartbug.blogspot.com/p/workshops-fall-2014.html

For Your Special Valentine, A Lovely Specialized Pottery Piece

"I love you to the Moon and Back." Do you have a special photograph or phrase you'd like to personalize onto a handmade piece of pottery to give to your loved one for Valentine's Day? A photograph of the two of you enjoying a fun night out or a goofy selfie of you and that special loved one? Mary K Spencer of the Potters House in Litchfield has created some beautiful twelve ounce mugs and various small bowls for this - - - - Start "decorating" with your special photograph and continue your design with Mary K's various love-inspired graphics and text...Enjoy this creative space with amazing positive energy...make a meaningful gift for a loved one or two.
Registration is required. Email 1 jpg image to Mary K by February 1st to thrownpottery9@gmail.com . Last year one participant used silly family photos from Halloween, and now have some have keepsake dishes forever!

Sunday, February 5th 11:30 to 1. $29. covers the expense of one mug plus yummy brunchie items and coffee/ tea:) Bring a friend and get $5. back at the event in cash. Registration is required.

Paint Night to Benefit MES 5th Grade! Saturday, January 28th 5 to 8 PM!

Please join us in an extraordinary and classy PAINT NIGHT evening at Hélène Farrar Art in Manchester! We will paint our beloved Cobbosseecontee Lake in it's last hour of light, a sunset picture, enjoy delicious heavy hors-d'oeuvres and wine from our Lighthouse. Learn about the Canadian Artist Lawrence Harris and paint the night away  - - -  -Leave inspired! This special evening is a benefit for the MES 5th Grade. Cost is $48. Register here.

MES 5th Grade says THANKS!

What's the latest? Our Art Show! Paint Night "Springtime in Paris" Friday, April 22nd and the Summer Schedule for Art Camps for Kids ARE HERE!

Acrylic Painting on Thursday Evenings is underway! We had our first class and jumped right into painting fresh veggies! There is room for 2 more in this class if you want to join us - classes run for 4 more Thursday evenings from 7 - 8:30, cost is $20. / class!

The children in afterschool art classes are painting the cutest little animals as part of a greater service learning project to benefit the local animal shelters! We do still have some spots left in our afterschool classes in both Wednesday and Friday afternoons from 345 to 445 PM... Class cost is $20./ each and includes all materials and a healthy snack.

You can find daily updates on Facebook!

Here's  link to our page!
https://www.facebook.com/Catch-The-Artbug-With-Hélène-Farrar-289929681044769/timeline/

Fall Kids Afterschool Classes Info HERE!!! And Paint Parties!

It'll warm up and when it does, we are ready!

See attached summer schedules for both children and adults!
Coming up next...Clay Class for Kids starting Thursday, May 7th from 5 - 6 PM,
5 classes for $100. or $20. / class

Its perfect timing to play with hot wax when its 2 degrees out!

Come and join us for a special workshop on Sunday, January 25th from 9 - 3 PM to learn the "Art of Encaustic Painting" .... the cost is $75 includes everything. More information below about this fabulous winter workshop!

 

Encaustic Painting 101

Sunday, January 25th  9 AM – 3 PM.  $75. Includes materials .

What are encaustics? How do artist’s use encaustics? What is the history of encaustics? Learn this, plus how to layer, fuse and make a variety of marks in this seductive medium. Learn painterly approaches plus how to etch and scrape into the surface. Take your flat collections such as your drawings, collected papers, pictures and embellish them into the wax! Leave with two small finished paintings and artistic inspiration!

We will also briefly touch on proper studio ventilation, wax safety, and how to “finish” their artworks in terms of framing and care. Class time will be divided between demonstrations, individual work time, and discussion. Encaustic Medium will also be for sale. TO REGISTER: Email helene@helenefarrar.com or call (207) 485 5691

In 2015, Let Your Inner Artist Bloom!

Here are some beginning thoughts on how to create a culture of creativity for yourself and/or your child in the new year.

Let go of ideas of perfection. Give perfection up.  And give yourself permission to meander. Record ideas. Doodle.  Open the door and leave the house. Go to the museum. Go to your local art gallery and spend more than one minute looking at each art piece. Take a walk outside.  You know that Art doesn’t occur on its own. You have to get moving and open your eyes. …..Kids make what we perceive as junk, but they have it right. They are having “experiences”. Process drives them not what happens at the end. We could learn a lot from these little people.

Start sketching with a pen and carry a little blank book with you everywhere. Don’t let something in your head be lost again. And say goodbye to erasing. Draw more lines, cut more shapes, listen to more music. Erasing is bad for the paper and bad for your soul. It tells you that what you are doing is not good enough. Shut those voices down. Now get moving. You have a lot to do. It is going to be a year where you've been creative. Yes, it is!