This Spring Embrace the Joy of Creativity

Here are some local resources for those who are interested in gardening or the arts.

Art for Kids from Abrakadoodle

Since 2002, Abrakadoodle has offered art classes for kids, fun themed summer art camps, holiday art camps, art parties and special events such as art activity days. Locally, you’ll find Abrakadoodle programs being offered in the Wayzata Schools and by the City of Plymouth.

Abrakadoodle stands out also due to the sheer fun that kids enjoy during classes. “Our classes offer a thrilling format for art exploration. Kids are encouraged to express themselves through their artwork in a supportive, positive and self-esteem building atmosphere,” says Gertrud Luer, educational director.

Classes to be offered in the spring include Clay Lab where children can experiment with air dry clay and Dare to Draw classes.

Hennepin County Master Gardeners

For April and beyond, the Hennepin County Master Gardeners offers a range of interesting classes from beginner vegetable gardening, growing and using herbs, to wise watering practices and butterfly gardening.

Some events include:
Annual Plant Sale May 19: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Normandale Community Colleg eAnnual Learning Garden Tour July 14: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. SE Minneapolis Suburbs.

The price is $15 per person the day before the tour, and $20 on the day of the tour. Many wonderful and replicable home gardens will be exhibited and there will be educational presentations on pollinators, watering practices and turf.

Gearing Up for Spring at Bachman’s

Bachman’s Plymouth has a lot to offer to eager gardeners in the spring season. In early April, cold-tolerant plants such as pansies arrive at the store. As the days get warmer, the garden center will be filled up with trees, shrubs and vegetable plants.

One of the things that we love at all our retail stores is the potting bench, says Karen Bachman, marketing director. “It serves as an inspiration station that allows people to get ideas of how to create outdoor containers,” she says. The containers can be purchased as well.

Bachman’s website has resources such as care sheets and videos on how to plan and take care of gardens.

Wayzata Public Schools Community Education

The Wayzata Public Schools Community Education has a plethora of enriching classes for both adults and kids, ranging from painting, clay to seasonal crafts. “These hands-on learning experiences are a great way to explore new interests and meet other people who share your passions,” says Deb Slomkowski, enrichment manager. “These classes are popular because participation in arts programs not only develops our focus, problem solving skills and creativity, but also enriches our lives.”

Here is a popular option: Celebrate Spring with Mosaic Yard Art
This adult class will teach participants how to decorate their yards with beautiful and colorful mosaics.

Robbinsdale Area Schools Community Education

Robbinsdale Area Schools Community Education is welcoming new partnerships this spring including one with the Perpich Center for Arts Education, which will bring in a range of arts classes such as art history, pottery, creative writing and dance.

Community Education is a wonderful place for these exciting opportunities because it is about “seeking opportunities and enriching people’s lives,” says Diane Dickmeyer, program specialist. “For example, the Perpich Center is a high school with expertise in the arts and we can now bring their expertise to a wider community.”

Wheel Throwing: Beginning to Advanced Pottery
The class caters to people who are either interested in or are looking to grow their skills in wheel thrown pottery.