Watercolor lesson

Karen King swept her paintbrush to create the beginnings of a night sky during Friday evening’s wine and canvas class. As more than 10 attendees followed along to King’s instructions, dark blue watercolors appeared on their canvases.

The class, “Night Sky” was just one of seven opportunities the community will have to create their own illustrations this year. King will lead a painting class at the Centre for Arts & Artists once a month through July featuring different themes.

“I want to teach people to enjoy art,” King said.

King has been a studio artist and instructor at the Centre for Arts & Artists for seven years. She has an emphasis in mediums such as water based oils, pastels and pencil while also being a specialty portrait artist.

Executive Director Linda Klepinger said she is impressed with the volunteer time King puts in at the Centre for Arts.

“King works full-time at Newton’s West Academy where there aren’t any art classes,” Klepinger said.

Students from West Academy have been given the opportunity to participate and learn various art forms because of King. Many students now have a passion for art because of King’s volunteer time during students’ study halls or after school hours.

“Their community has been broadened,” Klepinger said. “The kids have the dedication to complete projects and they have a sense of pride.”

The wine and canvas classes have also increased in participation since King began instructing them.

“She is just the greatest and so inclusive,” Klepinger said. “You leave feeling like (Vincent) van Gogh.”

Klepinger said the Centre for Arts & Artists is for the community to enjoy with many working artists and mediums.

“The artists are available to answer questions and the community should utilize them,” Klepinger said. “You will find you always learn something here.”

For Rhonda Paine, a participant in Friday night’s wine and canvas class, King’s classes have allowed her to get out of her comfort zone and try something new.

“This is my third class and it’s been a blast,” Paine said. “I came in not knowing anything and she’s so good at teaching.”

Paine said she painted several snowmen during one of King’s classes and she ended up giving them to other people for Christmas.

“The classes are good for all ages,” Paine said. “There isn’t a lot to do on cold nights and it’s just good to get out.”

To register for upcoming classes visit the Centre for Arts & Artists Facebook page, visit centreforartsandartists.org or call 641-792-1391.

Upcoming classes

• Feb. 9 — Love wood sign

• March 9 — Bridge Painting

• April 13 — Raining Silhouette

• May 11 — May Flowers

• June date to be announced — Swinging in the stars

• July date to be announced — Fireflies

Price starts at $20.  Most popular size canvases are $30 to $40, which includes all supplies and class fee. Attendees pay at the class.

Contact Kayla Singletary at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or ksingletary@newtondailynews.com