CAMDEN — Every January, the Camden Public Library offers art classes for adults.

“We say, 'Why should kids have all the fun?!" said the Library in a news release.

The next round of classes begins January 22, at 7 p.m. All classes are $10 per person (Partner Dance is $10 per couple). Register by calling the library at 236-3440. Space is limited, and the library asks for pre-payment to hold your place. 
 
January 22, 7 p.m.: Sketching with Ink and Watercolor with Heather Davis.

This class is an introduction to concepts and techniques that encourage freedom and enjoyment in sketching. Materials will be provided, including a pen, paper, and artist quality watercolor paints.

Participants will do a quick warm-up drawing exercise and then dive into a loose drawing and painting session. The focus is on capturing what you like most about your view or subject matter.

There will be a variety of still life subjects including flowers in vases, potted plants, sculptures, trays and you are encouraged to bring anything you’d like to sketch that is not too large to fit into a paper grocery bag so that you are sure to have something to sketch that inspires you! $10 per person, register in advance: 236-3440. 
 
January 24, 6 p.m.: Sew Your Own Tote Bag. 

Join Miss Amy and Lindsay Pinchbeck to learn this simple sewing project, just in time for the new bag ordinance. All supplies provided but if you have a favorite fabric feel free to bring it along. $10 materials fee, registration required. Call 236-3440 or stop by the circulation desk.
 
January 29, 6 p.m.: The Decorated Handwritten Letter with Rita Swidrowski.

Retired art educator and Sketchbook Journal Artist, Rita Swidrowski, will share her love of creative paper correspondence, which combines writing and art. She will provide background and inspiring ideas and prompts. Participants will create handwritten, embellished letters, envelopes, cards and enclosures. Paper mail offers enjoyment that is very different from electronic communication!
 
Basic materials will be provided but participants are encouraged to bring favorite art-making and writing tools, and treasures such as photos, quotations, poems, stories and collage materials. 
 
A retired public school art teacher, Swidrowski has taught various independent workshops and classes over the years. Most recently she gave workshops in conjunction with her art shows on The Art of The Sketchbook Journal at The Belfast Free Library.

These were followed by a two year, ongoing sketch/drawing group, led and taught by Swidrowski.
 
January 31, 7 p.m.: Introduction to Social Partner Dance with Chris Sprague. 

Chris Sprague leads this workshop for beginners. $10 per couple – register at the circulation desk or by calling 236-3440.

The class will cover principles that can translate between various partner dances like West Coast Swing, Salsa, Bachata among others.