Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts Summer 2024 Courses

WELCOME!

In this bustling era of large language machines, the human touch in art resonates even more profoundly. We yearn for authenticity, for narratives that sing of joys and sorrows, dreams, and realities –Making and practicing art and crafts are a fundamental expression of our humanity, a language that transcends words and cultures. It allows us to tell our stories, share our experiences, and connect with each other on a deeper level.

This summer, Sugar Maples Center For Creative Arts redefines the art and craft experience. In addition to traditional offerings in ceramics, painting, and fiber arts, we will now be hosting workshops in writing on art, craft and memoir, written alphabet design, fly tying, and perfumery.

We invite you to explore the written word, delving into the power of storytelling through workshops in writing and calligraphy. Learn the art of crafting your own alphabet, infusing each letter with your unique personality. For those seeking a connection to nature, our fly tying workshop will guide you in creating beautiful, functional works of art inspired by the buzzing life of the Catskills. And for those drawn to the evocative world of scent, our perfumery workshop will unlock the secrets of fragrance creation, allowing you to capture the essence of a summer day in a single bottle.

These new workshops reflect our commitment to providing a space for everyone to explore their creativity, regardless of their experience or background. We believe that arts and crafts have the power to transform lives, build communities, and make the world a more beautiful place.

Our beautiful, light-filled studios, nestled amidst the breathtaking Catskill Mountains, become your haven for exploration. Hike through sun-dappled forests, let the cool mountain breeze invigorate your senses, and find inspiration in the whispers of nature. Workshops become more than just skill-building exercises; they are journeys of self-discovery, fueled by the beauty around you and the shared passion of fellow creators.

See you in the Catskills!

Kulvinder Kaur Dhew, Director

On the cover: Rosa Leff

Catalogue Design: Sarah Taft

THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION

7971 MAIN STREET, P.O. BOX 924

HUNTER, NY 12442

PHONE: 518 263 2010

WWW.CATSKILLMTN.ORG

WEEKLY CLASSES

All weekly class times are Wednesdays, 10 am to 1 pm.

WEEKLY WHEEL THROWING CERAMICS

Instructor: Meredith Kunhardt

Dates: June 19 – August 20

Course Fee: $220

Lab Fee: $65 [includes first bag of clay]

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

There are many reasons that making pottery on the wheel has become so popular. Making pots gets us more in touch with our elemental ‘selves’. Fashioning pots with our hands, and minds, serves our desire to create and realize our imaginations. The farm to table movement has made us more aware of the relationship between locally grown foods and handmade wares. We aim to celebrate this relationship by offering an introductory course to making pots. Students will learn how to prepare clay and, using the potter’s wheel, create tableware shapes.

WEEKLY HAND BUILDING CERAMICS

Instructor: Maureen Garcia

Dates: June 19 – August 20

Course Fee: $220

Lab Fee: $65 [includes first bag of clay]

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

Using clay to create pottery, sculpture, architectural and other forms, reaches back as far in time as 28,000 years ago when the first paleolithic Venus figurines were sculpted. From the magnificent, Native American pots to modern day tilework, sculptures, and functional vessels, hand-building processes have played an important role in artists’ abilities to express their imaginations and cultures through this most malleable medium. During this exciting course, students will learn a variety of processes, tools, and approaches to realizing form. There will be demonstrations of pinch, coil, and slab techniques, and firings.

WEEKLY WEAVING

Instructor: Tina Harp

Dates: May 29 – July 17

Course Fee: $220

Lab Fee: $65

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

This class is designed for beginners and advanced weavers who want to learn and refresh the basics of hand-weaving. Each week, you will focus on a different weaving technique or project. By the end of the class, you will have created a variety of woven pieces, such as a scarf, placemat, or wall hanging. In addition to learning how to wind a warp, set up a loom, and weave basic patterns, you’ll learn different weaving techniques and how to troubleshoot. This class is a great way to relax, while also learning a new skill that you can enjoy for years to come. No prior experience is required.

CERAMICS WORKSHOPS

Unless otherwise noted, all course times are 10 am to 4 pm.

BIG BURN: GENERAL MAYHEM

Instructors: Steve Cook and Bruce Dehnert

Dates: June 14 - 18 (5 Days)

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $120

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

If you love to fire and love lots of different effects, or if you’re short on atmospheric firing experience, this intensive workshop is your ticket. You will participate in different types of firing, achieving results in a short time. We’ll fire soda, wood, gas reduction, raku, and pit! Emphasis is placed on glaze/surface preparation and firing techniques through demonstrations, lectures, and hands-on participation. You bring the bisque-ware, and we deliver the heat and the joy of this Catskill community.

FROM NATURE TO ART: A WILD CLAY POTTERY WORKSHOP

Instructors: Takuro and Hitomi Shibata

Dates: June 21 – 25

Course Fee: $600

Lab Fee: $100 (includes first bag of clay)

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced Locally prospected clays, known as “wild clays,” have been utilized for pottery-making for thousands of years. Join us in this workshop as we explore wild clay’s potential as a clay body, slip, or glaze material. This workshop will provide an opportunity to discover the possibilities of materials found in our own surroundings. Let’s craft together and enjoy this creative process of transforming the Catskill’s wild clay into creative objects. Intermediate to advanced skills in wheel-throwing or hand building are appreciated. Test firings are planned.

HAND BUILD POTTERY:

FROM FLAT TO FORM

Instructor: Bill Griffith

Dates: June 28-July 2

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $50 (includes first bag of clay)

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

Using soft clay slabs, templates and several hand building construction techniques, students will create a variety of functional pottery forms including mugs, pouring pots, vases, and platters. Students will also make their own clay stamps and rollers for making texture, surface patterns and designs on their pots. Emphasis will be on learning good craftsmanship and constructing functional forms. This workshop is designed for beginning level students, and teachers who want to expand their making skills and knowledge. There will be a bisque firing. Glazes and application will be demonstrated and discussed.

SODA FIRING INTENSIVE

Instructor: Chris Archer

Dates: June 28 – July 1

Course Fee: $400

Lab Fee: $50 [includes first bag of clay]

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

Explore the transformative power of soda ash in a three-day workshop covering glaze application, kiln stacking, and firing techniques. Achieve rich colors and unique surface textures through this atmospheric firing process. Learn to balance science and art as you choreograph your work for stunning results. Bring bisque-fired stoneware or porcelain pieces, and experiment with glazes, flashing slips, and test tiles. Unload your transformed creations on the final day. There will be wheel-throwing and altering demonstrations, and time for making with lots of individual attention. All skill levels welcome!

LEVELING UP: PORCELAIN & CELADON

Instructor: Francine Epstein

Dates: July 5-9

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $60 [includes first bag of clay]

Skill Level: Beginner To Intermediate

If you are looking to improve your skills in throwing great pots with porcelain, this workshop is for you. Come study in our sunny studio with one of the most gifted teachers of the craft while focusing on making better pots. Through demonstrations, practice, and discussions, students will explore the anatomy of pots, and concentrate on aspects of their craft that deserve improvement. From feet to bellies, lids, glazing and beyond, more successful pots are guaranteed. Students will take home to their studios a greater knowledge of their own approach and ‘voice’, as well as greenware, bisqueware, and high fired celadons from our gas reduction kiln!

GLAZE & MATERIALS SCIENCE

FOR THE ARTIST: PLUS!

Instructor: Dr. William M. Carty

Dates: July 5 – 9

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $60

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

Whether you’re a recent arrival to the glaze and clay calculation world, or you’ve previously studied this fascinating science, this workshop will exponentially expand your knowledge of glaze and clay-body development. Students will explore color behavior in glazes, that they invent, in both oxidation AND reduction atmospheres. Glaze and clay body formulation, the role of metal oxides and stains, the introduction of opacifiers, and causes of defects will be taught step by step. Testing “wild clays” will be welcome in our explorations. Students are encouraged to bring in their curiosities and challenges for discussion with this renowned, and fun, instructor.

FIVE DAYS WITH ADJECTIVES

Instructor: John Gill

Dates: July 12 – 16

Course Fee: $600

Lab Fee: $50 [includes first bag of clay]

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced John Gill is known for his unique approaches to constructing planular vessels that exhibit both contemporary and historical associations. Gill’s expressive angulars challenge gravity with cantilever, colliding with surfaces that feature dynamic painting. There is undeniable magic in his hands, and a plausible logic guided by the idea that working with function opens-up possibilities. Join us in this workshop that could change your trajectories in thinking and creating. Gill has been a leader in our field, absorbing stories, and working intuitively to put together forms in direct yet activated relationships. He comes to materials with simple tools and ideas, solving problems in the moment. The opportunity to study with this artist is a rite of passage and not to be missed.

CLAYING WITH SODA FIRING

Instructor: Chad Steve

Dates: July 19-23

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $70 [includes first bag of clay]

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

This workshop provides a hands-on experience in wheel throwing and soda firing. Students will experiment with altering and incorporating various flashing slips to enhance the aesthetic aspects of their work. Participants are encouraged to bring gathered materials, such as sand and small stones, to be added to slips. Each material can provide unique textures, patterns, or even contrasting colors. This process adds both aesthetic and tactile dimensions to the fired works. The combination of wheel throwing, alterations, slip additions and atmospheric firing allows for a diverse range of artistic expression. Fresh ways of throwing will be demonstrated, and individual attention emphasized.

SMOKIN’ LIKE A FREIGHT TRAIN!

Instructor: Ben Owen

Dates: July 26 - August 4

Course Fee: 900

Lab Fee: $130 [includes first bag of stoneware clay)

Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

This pivotal workshop will provide a great experience of wood-firing as a group. Various approaches to using flashing slips, glazing with materials to create texture, and firing techniques will be emphasized. Specific placement in the kiln, for various effects from the flame, smoke, and ash accumulation will be an important component of the experience. Philosophy, design, and specific ways of processing pottery will be shared. A hands-on workshop will take place while the wood kiln cools. Information on clays and materials to use for this workshop will be provided.

THE LAYERED SURFACE

Instructor: Anna Calluori Holcombe

Dates: August 9-13

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $90

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

If you are interested in developing a rich and layered surface, this course will allow you to expand your palette and skills in making work that is personally relevant and dynamic. By incorporating drawing, photography, scanning, and collage techniques to develop imagery. Techniques such as China paint, decals, slips, and under and over glazes will be explored. These processes will be used on a variety of forms, such as tiles and plates, as well as work you make during this exciting workshop. Overall, the effect is one of depth and richness not typically found in single fire glazes. We will be working with porcelain, exploring its multitude of forming and decorative possibilities.

DWIPPY GLAZE PLAY & THE DIMINUTIVE TEAPOT

Instructor: Fong Choo

Dates: August 9-13

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $90

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

Focus your playful side and inner glaze alchemist! This workshop will emphasize throwing a variety of forms, including the instructor’s beloved teapot, and delves into the mesmerizing world of unorthodox glazing, blending and learning how to tweak Mayco’s low-fire crystal glazes with their mid-range counterparts, for a kaleidoscope of unpredictable finishes. Expect luscious runs, marbled swirls, and delightful “dwippiness” (as the instructor puts it). We’ll also explore his renowned handle-building techniques using unique materials like cane and reed, transforming your handled works into mini masterpieces. Come experiment, embrace the unexpected, and discover the magic of firing to cone 5-6 with the master of this approach.

ZOOMORPHIC VESSELS

Instructor: Katherine Maloney

Dates: August 16-20

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $70 (includes one bag of clay)

Skill Level: The ability to wheel-throw a cylinder is encouraged

Join us for 5 days of exploring imaginative approaches to creating zoomorphic pottery. Using techniques of throwing and hand-building, students will form vessels that incorporate animal figures by sculpting, carving, and alteration. Instruction will cover basic sculpting techniques such as the hollowing method and how to give their animals expression and detail. Katherine will provide individual guidance with each student to achieve a pleasing composition, structural integrity, and personal meaning in their finished work. The workshop also includes one glaze firing.

PAINTING ON CLAY WITH YOUR BODY, MIND, AND SOUL

Instructor: Sin-ying Ho & Phil Read

Dates: Aug. 23-27

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $95 (includes first bag of clay)

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

This exciting workshop will emphasize ancient Chinese methodologies and concepts for painting and decorating on porcelain greenware, bisqueware, and glaze ware. Processes, that include applying “Qing Hua” cobalt pigment, color underglazes, glazes, computer decal transfers and China paints, will be shared. Students will learn two major brush painting techniques; fine-line brush painting and board brush expression. Ways of painting symbols and patterns, like bamboo, chrysanthemum, orchid, plum blossom, peony, dragonflies, and the iconic goldfish, will be covered. By understanding color field and exploring the subconscious, participants will connect with their body, mind, and soul.

THE WHOLE ENCHILADA: A BEGINNER’S JOURNEY IN CLAY

Instructors: Marilyn Katz, Gail Rutigliano, Karen Stern

Dates: September 7 – 9

Course Fee: $300

Lab Fee: $50 [includes first bag of clay]

Skill Level: Beginner

Last year, this revolutionary way of learning to work with clay was invented right here at Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts. Have a blast getting creative in this workshop with three Dynamos! Come be a part of a new paradigm in learning how to work with clay…under the guidance of three amazing artists. Students will learn wheel throwing, hand building, glazing, and raku firing…each technique important to building skills and knowledge quickly. You’ll feel like you’re in excellent hands with these Instructors who know how to work with clay, enthusiastically share their knowledge, and set the right pace and atmosphere for learning.

VOLUMETRIC IMAGE TRANSFER

Instructor: Forrest Lesch-Middleton

Dates: September 13-17

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $110 [includes first bag of clay]

Skill Level: Intermediate To Advanced

This workshop explores a technique called “volumetric image transfer.” We’ll start with wheel-throwing and tile demos, then move on to creating silkscreens with your own designs. By the end of day one, you’ll have your own silkscreen and understand how to set up a low-tech darkroom. We’ll also explore form and function, and you’ll gain a deeper understanding of wheel throwing and design principles. There’s plenty of time to develop your work and incorporate image transfer into your studio practice.

EXPLORING THE HUMAN TORSO

Instructor: Lisa Clague

Dates: Sept. 13-17

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $65 [includes first bag of clay]

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

Learning to sculpt the Figure is a process that is both exciting and challenging. With good instruction, you will enjoy the process of creating a torso that tells your own personal story In this workshop we will construct the torso using slab construction. Emphasis will be on the face and hands, giving expression to your piece. The incorporation of metal and fabric dipped in slip will give your work another level of freshness and excitement. Surface treatments will be explored on wet clay as well as glazes and post fired finishes, giving you many possibilities to enrich your final sculpture.

2D PROGRAM WORKSHOPS

Unless otherwise noted, all course times are 10 am to 4 pm.

SLICE N EASY: PAPERCUT CITYSCAPES

Instructor: Rosa Leff

Dates: June 10-12

Course Fee: $300

Lab Fee: $30

Fee: $330 + $40 Non-Refundable Registration Fee

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

In this workshop, we will work from personal photographs to create hand-cut paper images. Participants will learn how to navigate the shadows, layers, and movements in a photo and ensure that the cut image remains structurally sound without the use of adhesives. The skills practiced in this workshop can be applied to any image, allowing participants to create dynamic papercuts from their own photos. There will be discussions and demonstrations to assist students through this amazingly complex, and beautiful, art-form. All levels of skill are most welcome.

THE JOURNEY IS REAL

Instructor: Karin Lowney-Seed

Dates: June 28 - July 1

Course Fee: $400

Lab Fee: $45

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

In this workshop we will explore personal artistic style while venturing new ideas and pathways into your skills in painting. Experimenting and challenging yourself can be the most rewarding process, yet also intimidating. Students will receive instruction in understanding, mixing, and applying paint to create imagery. Learning personal mark-making is central to this experience. This supportive and dynamic workshop instructor will take you on that journey. Join us for what we know will be a life changing artistic retreat.

LANDSCAPE IN THE STUDIO AND AFIELD

Instructor: Nathan Loda

Dates: July 5 – 9

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $30

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

We will learn the fundamentals of technique for landscape painting in the studio, and venture outdoors to use our skills under the beautiful Catskill sky. There will be demonstrations of a methodical approach to painting landscapes that can be used in the studio, as well as painting directly from observation in these ancient mountains, valleys, and glens. The focus will be on representational painting, but we will discuss, and practice techniques used to blend realism, abstraction, and imagination. All levels are more than welcome.

THINKING WITH YOUR HANDS

Instructor: Cyrus Highsmith

Dates: July 7-9

Course Fee: $300

Lab Fee: $40

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

There are few aspects of human communication that are as sophisticated as written alphabets. Integral to language and meaning, letters, designed and drawn, offer infinite aesthetic possibilities. This unique workshop will emphasize the importance of white space, sensitivity to shapes, and ways to render. Students will be introduced to methods that can be applied to type design as well as image-making of all kinds. This workshop will be a dynamic, hands-on, and mostly computer-free, exploration of drawing, making, and thinking about letters in ways that will enable students to see the world in different ways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Instructor: Gabe Brown

Dates: July 12-16

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $40

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

Designed for those interested in not only the basic understanding of oil painting techniques and applications, but this workshop will also address advanced knowledge of practical uses. This workshop is ideal for anyone wanting to perfect their craft with a better understanding of how to apply specific methods to individual studio practice. You will learn application methods of ‘ground’ on various substrates, paint-mixing techniques, presentation, and preparation of artwork for transportation. Primarily focusing on oil, this workshop will also include a range of water media such as acrylic, flashe, ink, and watercolor.

EXPLORING WATERCOLOR AND ACRYLIC

Instructor: Loreen Oren

Dates: July 19- 21

Course Fee: $300

Lab Fee: $50

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

This workshop is designed for beginners or students who wish to continue working with watercolor and other water-based painting such as tempera gouache and acrylics. Techniques such as wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, scumbling and “dry brush” will be demonstrated. Students will learn how to create patterns, layers, color relationships, brush strokes and effects in watercolor painting. Indepth explorations of various types of paper will be led, in addition to using unexpected tools to apply paint and achieve unique results. Bring your creativity and love for color, and let loose in the beautiful, yet unpredictable, world of water-based painting. All levels are most welcome!

FIND YOUR STARBURST

Instructor: Kulvinder Kaur Dhew

Dates: August 2-6

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $45

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

Join us for a dynamic exploration of drawing where you’ll delve into the fundamentals of capturing form, image, and narrative through a wide array of media and tools. This workshop goes beyond the mechanics of drawing, inviting you to discover the profound connection between observation, understanding, and artistic expression. Engage in insightful lectures, stimulating exercises, and engaging presentations that fuel your artistic growth. This workshop is perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with drawing, whether as a foundation for further artistic pursuits or simply as a rewarding exploration of self-expression. This workshop welcomes artists of all skill levels.

EXPLORATIONS IN NATURAL PAINTS, DYES & PIGMENTS

Instructor: Patricia Miranda

Dates: August 16-20

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $50

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

This workshop is an exploration of color using natural dyes and pigments. Participants will create color from raw materials such as cochineal, malachite, clay, oak gall, and black walnuts, for use in a diverse group of water-based binders, from gum arabic to distemper to egg tempera. We will explore the potentials of color, and how materials carry content through history, context, physical and aesthetic properties. Considerations of the environmental impact of materials will offer a framework for maintaining a sustainable safe painting practice. Participants will create a set of handmade watercolor paints, a color swatch book, and exploratory paintings on paper, textile, and panel.

For questions about courses, you may email Kulvinder Kaur Dhew at dhewk@catskillmtn.org

FIBER WORKSHOPS

Unless otherwise noted, all course times are 10 am to 4 pm.

RUG HOOKING

Instructor: Tina Harp

Dates: June 21 - 23

Course Fee: $300

Lab Fee: $85

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced Rug Hooking is a traditional art form here in the Catskills. Beginning with a complete kit, students will learn how to hook a simple 8 x 10 picture using hand-dyed strips of wool. Learn how color and texture function in this intriguing craft technique. Because this tool is portable, students will be able to continue working on projects outside class hours, and the next morning will be spent going over how the colors create textures, how to fix a mistake as well as lots of show and tell. Demonstrations and lots of individual attention are guaranteed.

TWINING BASKETS WITH WAXED LINEN THREAD

Instructor: Cael Chappell

Dates: August 9-13

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $50

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

Join us for a 5-day basket weaving workshop with award winning weaver Cael Chappell! This hands-on experience will take you on a creative journey, where you’ll learn the art of twined basketry using waxed linen thread. Each day will be filled with in-depth instruction to create unique, personalized baskets. Cael’s expertise and passion will guide you through the process, from planning your project to completing beautiful baskets. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned weaver, this workshop promises to be an enriching experience.

CATTAIL WEAVING INTENSIVE

Instructor: Renee Baumann

Dates: August 30-September 1

Course Fee: $300

Lab Fee: $40

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

Drawing from traditional English rush weaving techniques, this workshop will delve into working with locally harvested cattail leaves found here in the Catskills. This unique course will extend the student’s basket weaving skills through constructing smaller baskets and culminating with weaving a sun hat. Expect to leave Sugar Maples with the knowledge and practice to harvest, prepare and weave baskets from this abundant wetland plant. No previous basketry experience required! From the knowledge gained, students will be prepared to investigate Nature and select, harvest, and make objects of beauty from what they find.

Photo: Mark Loete

SPECIAL TOPICS

Unless otherwise noted, all course times are 10 am to 4 pm.

THE ART OF TYING FLIES

Instructor: Judd Weisberg

Dates: July 13

Time: 1-4pm

Course Fee: $100

Lab Fee: $60

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

In this introductory workshop, you’ll learn the essential techniques for crafting classic trout flies, from the alluring wet patterns that mimic aquatic insects to the vibrant streamers that tempt larger fish. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, this hands-on experience will equip you with the skills to create effective and beautiful lures. Under expert guidance, you’ll master the art of tying the Black & Olive Woolly Bugger, a versatile wet fly; the Black-Nosed Dace, a classic dry fly that imitates a small minnow; the Hendrickson, a dry fly designed for mayfly hatches; and assorted nymphs, essential for imitating underwater prey. While basic tools and materials will be provided, students with their own vise, scissors, and bobbin are encouraged to bring them to maximize their workshop experience. Join us at Sugar Maples Fiber Studio and unlock a new dimension of fly fishing creativity!

MOSAICS: NATURALLY

Instructor: Cynthia Fisher

Dates: June 14 -16

Course Fee: $300

Lab Fee: $80

Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced Mosaics inspired by the natural world range from abstract to representational. We will work in the indirect method with instruction tailored to your individual needs. Beginning with an overview of materials, substrates and tools, students will move onto composing their mosaic. Key elements of mosaic design will be emphasized: Andamento (the placement of tiles), color, value, and texture. Under the instructor’s skilled guidance, you will bring your nature-inspired vision to life in mosaic.

NATURAL PERFUME WORKSHOP

Instructor: Michelle O’Carroll

Dates: August 3

Course Fee: $160

Lab Fee: $130

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

This workshop is your gateway to the captivating world of natural perfumery. We’ll cover the fascinating history and methods of scent extraction, and then delve into the principles of fragrance structure, composition, and how scents interact with your unique skin chemistry. Embark on a sensory adventure with a guided sampling of the 13 olfactory families before experimenting with over 50 raw materials from our extensive library. Design and create your own, bespoke natural perfume/cologne to take home, using professional skeletal formulas as your roadmap. This workshop is perfect for anyone curious about the art of natural perfumery and eager to express their creativity through scent.

DRIFTS & LABYRINTHS

Instructor: Christopher Kaczmarek

Dates: August 16-20

Course Fee: $500

Lab Fee: $30

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

The act of walking is one of the most basic constants of the human condition, and is often a solo endeavor of short duration, covering the “last mile” between destination points. But there are creative and cultural spaces where walking serves as a shared modality for deep engagement and contemplation, and where both an investigation and a heightened awareness of our internal and external environments is undertaken. In this research and practice-based workshop, we will explore as a collective, some of these cultural spaces as formed through the artistic practice of Dérive, and the act of creating and walking an outdoor seven-circuit classic labyrinth.

WRITING ON CRAFT, ART, AND OUR SELVES

Instructor: Vince Montague

Dates: August 31- September 2

Course Fee: $300

Lab Fee: $25

Skill Level: Beginner To Advanced

Sugar Maples is thrilled to announce that for the first time in our history, we are offering an opportunity for those who would like to write. This will be a workshop with one of the country’s most special writers. If you are interested in writing about art, craft, or memoir, this workshop will infuse your thinking and writing with new ways of looking at our world of creativity. There will be discussions and exercises aimed at helping you hone your ideas, sharpen your vision, explore language, and experiment with the infinite ways of words. Learn how to construct and submit manuscripts for publication by journals, online media, and book publishers. Participants will have full access to our beautiful, sunny studio that’s replete with lots of table room, potters’ wheels, WIFI, and a supportive atmosphere. Note* You don’t have to be an artist to take this workshop!

Conveniently located on campus, the Sherwood House is a 14-room beautifully furnished facility with private bath, air conditioning, a common kitchen, living room with wide screen TV, and wireless Internet.

Room rates are $100 per night (+ sales tax) for double or single occupancy. Space is limited so make reservations EARLY!

Students must call Hillary Morse at 518 263 2010 to reserve a room.

ART EXPLORERS

Ages 5-14

The Superpowers of Art & Nature

Instructor: Kate Berten

Do you like to play outside and be creative?

Art Explorers is for YOU!

Taking inspiration from the flowers, bugs, trees, and mountains around us, we will tap into our creativity to capture the magic of nature and create paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Each day will include free play in the gorgeous Catskill Mountains, art exploration and creative connections.

WEEK 1: July 15 – 19

WEEK 2: July 22 – 26

WEEK 3: July 29 – August 2

WEEK 4: August 5 – 9

WEEK 5: August 12 – 16

THEATER EXPLORERS

Ages 8-12

MAUDE ADAMS THEATER HUB

The Superpowers of Theater and Movement

We will combine theater and movement to make small plays and skits as participants learn to create everything from scripts, to costumes, to props, and much more. Stage combat, movement, and dance will also be part of the curriculum as students explore their creativity in the beauty of Sugar Maples.

TWO SESSIONS: (Students may attend one or both weeks!)

August 5 – 9, 2024

August 12 – 16, 2024

Monday – Friday, 9:00am–4:00pm

Scan the QR code for more info and to register online, or call 518 263 2001

Course

Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Scan the QR code for more info and to register online, or call 518 263 2001

Course

SPECIAL EVENTS

Celebrating The Catskill Mountain Foundation’s 26th Year of Supporting the Arts in the Mountaintop Region

THE EIGHTH ANNUAL POTTERY FESTIVAL

An exhibition/sale by regional ceramic artists

SATURDAY, AUGUST 31, 11AM TO 5PM

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 1, 11AM TO 4PM

CATSKILL

FIBERS & ARTISANAL CELEBRATION

An exhibition/sale by regional fiber artists & makers

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11-13, 10AM TO 4PM

Opening Reception: Friday, October 11, 3-6 pm

Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts

34 Big Hollow Road, Maplecrest, NY 12454

HOW TO FIND US

34 Big Hollow Road, Maplecrest, NY 12454

DRIVING TIMES

From New York City: 2.5 hrs

From Albany: 1 hr

GPS & cell signal does not work reliably in the mountains, so please take the time to gather directions before heading to Sugar Maples. Signage for getting to Maplecrest is minimal, so you should have the directions for navigating our country roads to guide you to the campus. If using Google Maps enter “Sherwood House”, Maplecrest, NY or simply Maplecrest, NY.

From Hunter: From Route 23A, turn right onto Route 296. At the stop sign in Hensonville, take a right on County Route 40. Continue five minutes to Maplecrest and turn left at the Maplecrest sign onto Big Hollow Road.

From Windham: From Route 23, turn right onto Route 65. In Hensonville, take a left onto Route 40. Continue five minutes to Maplecrest and turn left at the Maplecrest sign onto Big Hollow Road.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Arrival and Departure

Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts is located in the Catskill Mountains, in the hamlet of Maplecrest, NY, roughly three hours north of New York City and one hour south of Albany. The easiest way to travel to Sugar Maples is by car.

It is a very beautiful rural area, cell phones may not work well. We suggest you travel in daylight so as to not get lost. As you arrive at the intersection of Maplecrest-Route 40 and Big Hollow Road, the Ceramics Studio is the first building on the left side of the road. If you are staying at the Sugar Maples dorm, named Sherwood House, it is located three (3) buildings down the road from the Ceramic Studio. Both buildings are marked with their names above the door. Sherwood House has a complete kitchen so you may cook your breakfast and evening meal. Cafes and restaurants are located a short drive away. You may order your mid-day meal and the staff assistants will pick it up and deliver it to the studio.

Directions

GPS & cell signal are not reliable in the mountain environment. Please download the map to your device while planning your visit. Sugar Maples Center For Creative Arts is at the intersection of routes 40 & 56 in Maplecrest, NY.

From Hunter: From Route 23A, turn right onto Route 296. At the stop sign in Hensonville, take a right on County Route 40. Continue five minutes to Maplecrest and turn left at the Maplecrest sign onto Big Hollow Road.

From Windham: From Route 23, turn right onto Route 65. In Hensonville, take a left onto Route 40. Continue five minutes to Maplecrest and turn left at the Maplecrest sign onto Big Hollow Road.

You can also obtain directions by going to Mapquest and entering “34 Big Hollow Road, Maplecrest, NY 12454” as your destination.

Hours

The main office is located in the Doctorow Center for the Arts, 7971 Main Street, Route 23A in the Village of Hunter. The office will be open weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm.

Enrollment

Enrollment is open to individuals of all ages unless otherwise specified. Class size is limited (on average to 8-12 students) in order to allow for ample workspace, teacher interaction and maximum safety. Please apply early to reserve your space.

Registration Fee

A $40 registration fee must accompany all registrations.

Materials

A materials fee is charged for all workshops to cover the cost of expendable materials and supplies that are provided by the instructor or Sugar Maples. A separate supply list will be sent prior to the start of the workshop for any supplies or equipment that the student will be required to bring.

Code of Conduct

In order to provide students, faculty, staff, visitors, and all those involved in Sugar Maples with a safe and supportive educational environment, we ask that all abide by our code of conduct. We ask that faculty, staff, fellow students and facilities are treated with consideration and respect.

Drugs and alcohol are prohibited in the studios. Sugar Maples is not responsible for the security of personal property of students, instructors or staff. Students are not permitted to have pets with them. Sugar Maples reserves the right to dismiss any student, without refund, for unacceptable behavior that is disruptive to the collective learning and living environment.

Studio Time

Studio time is available to all enrolled students who would like additional time to work in the Sugar Maples studios outside of class time. Schedules will be announced at the beginning of each term.

Attendance Certification Letter

Sugar Maples can provide an attendance certification letter to students requesting proof of attendance. The letter is printed on our letterhead and includes course title, description and instructor. The fee for administration of this documentation is $25.

Permission to Photograph

Sugar Maples Center for Creative Arts reserves the right to photograph any class, work, student or event and to reproduce the images at its discretion without incurring obligations.

Workshop Times

Unless otherwise noted, all workshop times are 10 am to 4 pm.

Refunds and Cancellations

Except for a $100 administration fee and the $40 registration fee per application, all fees are refundable if notice of cancellation is received at least three weeks (21 days) prior to the start of the class. No refunds will be made after that date due to contractual obligation, material acquisitions, faculty travel agreements, etc. If cancellation occurs three weeks before the class starts, monies may be applied to another class during the current season. A $35 non-refundable transfer fee will be charged at the time of the transfer. No refund or discount will be given if a student withdraws after a workshop begins. Sugar Maples reserves the right to cancel a workshop due to low enrollment or an emergency. If a cancellation should occur, students will be notified and will have the option of taking another class or receiving a full refund. Sugar Maples cannot be responsible for any airline or other travel ticket refund.

Transfers

Transfers are permitted from one workshop to another within the current season, space permitting. To transfer, you must notify Sugar Maples at least three weeks (21 days) prior to the start of your class. A $35 non-refundable transfer fee will be charged at the time of your transfer. If you are unable to attend the class you registered for and are unable to transfer to another class, you will be refunded according to our cancellation policy. No refunds will be made after that date due to contractual obligation, material acquisitions, faculty travel arrangements, etc.