Online Classes   

Students will explore the essays in David McCullough's "Brave Companions: Portraits in History." This book is a collection of essays with biographical sketches of fascinating men and women whose purpose and determination had a profound impact. Following weekly reading assignments, students will discuss the essays and explore the influence of these historical figures. Students will need to bring a copy of the book to class; hardcover, paperback or eBook are all acceptable.

This course will explore the daily routines of the general population; the farmers, bakers and brewers, scribes, stone masons, priests, women and children. Using archeological evidence, we will examine their culture and society, their homes, fashions, and leisure activities.

Draw with confidence. Learn to see differently and gain skills quickly while developing your line, form and perspective techniques. Exercises include contour drawing, value studies and creating depth. We will be working with pencil and using the season as our inspiration. All levels welcome!

Try your hand at a spontaneous medium. Develop basic watercolor painting skills in a relaxed environment. Study composition, color mixing and color relationships. Through demonstrations and experimentation, you will create a variety of artwork from abstract to landscape. We will be using the seasons as our inspiration. All levels welcome!

For many, the world of black and white photography is another world. The rarified world of masters like Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Dorothea Lange and Imogen Cunningham. A time past, a time of film, not digital capture. Yes, another world, but not one out of reach for any photographer using any camera. Come explore the potential of black and white for your own photography. Gain inspiration by discussing the work of different masters in each class. Photograph weekly assignments in color, converting to black and white, and posting on Flickr.com for feedback. This class is hybrid, meeting on Zoom with one session in person on location for a photography shoot. For all skill levels using phones to mirrorless cameras.

Our region has a tumultuous geologic history recorded in the rocks and sediments. These rocks and sediments tell us the story of how and when ancient landscapes evolved into the stunning scenery of the Puget Sound region we see today. These same rocks may also help us understand what geologic changes to expect in the future. This course will help students read the local outcrops and how to interpret the geologic environment of western Washington. Join us as we take a virtual field trip to explore the breathtaking landscape of the Puget Sound region.

This participative discussion class looks at national and international current affairs each week. Discussions include politics and other topic matters suggested by the group. Events are considered based on their effects today and into the future, historical context and leadership.