NANTUCKET MA: The Nantucket Historical Association (NHA) is delighted to be partnering with Mitchell’s Book Corner in hosting three afternoon “Art upstairs in the bookstore” workshops on two Sundays, March 28 and April 11, and Saturday, April 24, from 2:00 to 4 P.M. 54 Main Street.
These afternoon programs, facilitated by Mary Jennings, owner and manager of Mitchell’s, and Mary Lacoursiere and Betsey Braun, coordinators of the NHA’s 1800 House Early American Arts & Crafts classes, will offer these adjunct workshops to the community free of charge, on a first-come, first-served basis.
As part of the NHA’s mission to interpret the history of Nantucket and foster an appreciation of its historic significance, the programs offered in the educational classes at the 1800 House are dedicated to celebrating and reviving Nantucket’s rich traditions in historic decorative arts and crafts. Centuries-old techniques are taught by those at the top of their fields — artisans from Nantucket and throughout New England.
“This collaboration developed during a meeting we held at the end of January, when we all got together to discuss featuring the 1800 House classes in some of our summer window displays,” said Jennings. “We segued into talking about ways of allowing the community to utilize our second floor in the off season — which was one of our goals during the renovation — and from the concept of partnering with the NHA’s 1800 House in its vision of “art inspired by history,” these workshops emerged.”
In the first workshop, on March 28, participants will make a miniature Sailors Valentine, with instruction by Betsey Braun. On April 11, Mary Lacoursiere will offer a penwork workshop, each participant creating a simulated-scrimshaw ornament. Collage note cards will be the project in the final workshop, on April 24, with instructor Bee Shay.
“I am delighted that we are able to offer the winter community a chance to enjoy classes that are normally held during the summer; it not only showcases our second floor, it allows us to
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collaborate with a vital island nonprofit organization,” said Jennings.
All materials will be supplied, but workshop sizes are limited. Those not able to be accommodated may come and view the workshops as a form of demonstration.
The NHA’s offerings of Early American Arts & Crafts classes begin on June 14; all classes are held at the 1800 House. For a full 2010 schedule of classes, or for more information about these special weekend workshops, please call 508-228-7785.
