Middletown Arts Center Offers "Relaxing Through The Arts" Adult Watercolor Classes

Sept. 26, 2011 - PRLog -- Middletown, NJ (September 26, 2011) - Students in the Middletown Arts Center's (MAC) "Relaxing Through The Arts" adult watercolor class are experiencing the magic of watercolor. Full of laughter, encouragement, individual attention, light music and warm teas, students enjoy exploring the fine art of watercolor in a comfortable, nurturing environment. Artists join the class for many reasons that range from seeking rare personal time to finding that special place to de-stress and socialize.

Many of the students, and even the instructor, have also battled and survived cancer. The class and friendships made while painting serve as sources of solace and strength during their darkest days. Familiar stories and struggles are shared in class, but they do not determine the mood of the bright room in which they paint.

Classes run for 10-week sessions and are held Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. and Wednesdays/Thursdays 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Middletown Arts Center located on 36 Church Street in Middletown, NJ. Class registration is $150 for MAC Members and $165 for non-members.

Registration includes instruction, brushes, paint, paper, teas, music and beautiful floral arrangements for still life painting from Posies Floral Studio. Students are encouraged to paint what they want or enjoy a group lesson. No experience is necessary and all are welcome to join the group.

"I love bringing people together. Art, learning, laughter, support and stories help define unique friendships and result in amazing artwork," said Laura French, Instructor, Middletown Arts Center. "Many of my students are also award-winning artists who showcase their work annually in the Middletown Arts Center's Amateur Art Show. Each year at least two students celebrate with ribbons and recognition. They all come out and support each other, too. It's such a thrill to be a part of the celebrations."

"Relaxing Through The Arts" started out as "Healing Through The Arts" when the Middletown Arts Center first opened its doors in 2007.  Instructor Laura French designed the class based on her success at Riverview Medical Center's Jane H. and John Marshall Booker Cancer Center in Red Bank where she taught painting from 1997-99. Laura watched magic unfold as cancer patients and survivors discovered the healing power of watercolor. They were able to escape their disease as they painted, chatted and supported one another.  

Laura took this same concept to her home studio, opening it up to all who wanted to learn how to paint in a peaceful and encouraging environment.  By providing the group with music, hot teas and sweets, the class was enhanced and the students followed. Today, Laura enjoys working at the Middletown Arts Center where her classes have grown, yet the intimate environment and professional instruction remain the same.  

"The Middletown Arts Center's warm environment is a good fit for adults seeking affordable, unique opportunities to explore, grow and learn through the arts. This fall children and adults alike will build their self-confidence alongside our nurturing instructors. It's rewarding to see people's spirits and skills soar when they make time for what they love," said Maggie O'Brien, Executive Director, Middletown Arts Center.

For more information on Laura French's "Relaxing Through The Arts" adult watercolor class or any of the more than 100 adult or children's art classes offered at the Middletown Arts Center, visit www.middletownarts.org, call 732-706-4100 or visit the MAC at 36 Church Street, Middletown, NJ.

About the Middletown Arts Center
The Middletown Arts Center (MAC) is an award winning, state-of-the-art facility run by the nonprofit Middletown Township Cultural and Arts Council and dedicated to bringing quality arts programming and events to Middletown and surrounding communities. The MAC offers enrichment programs and entertainment for all ages and abilities. Visit www.middletownarts.org for more information and find them on Facebook.