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With recent rhetoric about a "51st state", what do you know about Canada, the amazing country to the north of us? This course will cover the history of British Columbia, placing it within the larger framework of Pacific Northwest history. Students will examine and compare U.S. and Canadian political structures and policies. It will also highlight cultural differences, including First Nations histories and perspectives. Learn about regional heroes, must-see natural wonders, historical landmarks, and unique culinary delights. There will be ample opportunities to share collective expertise and to engage in individual scholarship about all things Canadian.

Ready to continue your colored pencil journey? This ongoing class is designed for returning students who wish to deepen their skills and explore new techniques in a supportive and inspiring environment. Through a series of carefully selected projects, students will strengthen their understanding of color, layering, texture, value, and composition while continuing to discover the joy of the creative process. As confidence and experience grow, students who wish to do so are welcome to bring their own reference photographs and receive individualized guidance tailored to their interests and skill level. Whether your passion lies in florals, landscapes, wildlife, portraits, still life, or abstract designs, this class offers a welcoming space to refine your technique, develop your own artistic voice, and enjoy the lifelong journey of creative expression.

Prerequisite: At least one semester of Exploring Colored Pencils.

We live in a world defined by materials, yet the items we touch every day remain a mystery. This visual and discussion-driven course pulls back the curtain on materials science. We will untangle the complexities of the global plastic problem, exploring the realities of recycling, composting, and waste management. Beyond sustainability, we will dive into the "hottest" technological innovations of our time, discovering why specific materials are chosen for life-saving medical implants, carbon-fiber drones, and Mars rovers.

Through interactive lectures and vibrant group discussions, we demystify the substances that shape our daily lives, empowering you to navigate the intersection of sustainability, cutting-edge technology, and future material discoveries.

Myth is far more than an ancient story; it is a foundational framework passed down through generations to help humanity make sense of the world around them. Early cultures looked to these sacred narratives to unlock universal mysteries, explain natural phenomena and find harmony within their environment, and articulate moral truths. From the thunderbolts of Zeus to the grandeur of the Odysseus, Graeco-Roman mythology has shaped Western art, language, and culture. In this course, we will explore the world's most enduring divine stories; from cosmic creations and divine intrigues to heroic quests and the fragile boundary between mortals and gods, examining how classical and Roman cultures seamlessly intertwined art and mythology to mirror their deepest values, morals, and cultural identities.

Explore the living cultures, histories, and contributions of the Coastal and Plateau tribal groups of the Pacific Northwest. In this course, students will learn about the enduring traditions of Native communities, from ancient practices to contemporary cultural expressions. Through tribal voices, stories, hands-on experiences, and experiential activities, students will gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives and how they may differ from dominant modern American culture.

The course highlights the rich cultural knowledge, resilience, and ongoing contributions of Native peoples to the Pacific Northwest. It also invites exploration into your own relationship with the land and provides resources for further exploration.

This course will begin with understanding basic camera functions and how to adjust camera settings. Students will learn the 3 principles of lens aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings to create quality images. Further instruction will include composition, lighting techniques, and camera handling to improve image quality. Lessons will become more advanced and build on the basics presented in previous sessions. Some of the more advanced topics will include Astro-photography (moon and stars), Macro-photography (extreme close-ups), dramatic lighting techniques, and other fun and interesting ways to create striking images. There will also be discussions about how to choose editing software, how to catalog and store images for easy retrieval and an overview of digital imaging technology and image file types.

Each class will have a suggested shooting idea for students to practice, sharing their results for review and critique with an online Flicker account. A camera with adjustable settings is recommended for the course. No books required. Presentation notes will be provided.

This course offers a playful and approachable introduction to creating art with soft pastels. Perfect for beginners, the class provides a hands-on opportunity to explore basic tools, materials, and pastel colors. You will learn how to select and prepare textured surfaces to create a strong foundation for your artwork. Lessons will introduce the elements of art—including line, form, color, texture, and space—and show you how to use these elements to strengthen your composition skills. You will also explore color-blending and layering techniques, including how to smudge, blend, and build layers of color to create depth and dimension. By the end of this course, you will have the foundational skills and confidence needed to continue your creative journey with soft pastels.