February 4th, 11th, 18th and March 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th

Join us this winter for Looking Closely at Art, a thoughtful seven-week exploration of how and why we connect with visual art. Designed for curious beginners and seasoned art lovers alike, this series builds a strong foundation in the principles of art design, composition, and style. Participants will learn how these elements shape our experience of art and discover new ways to observe, interpret, and enjoy the work around us.

With that groundwork in place, the class will move into focused sessions on landscapes, abstract art, portraiture, and photography. Each week offers guided conversation and close looking, helping you deepen your understanding of artistic choices and expand your capacity to see with intention.

No previous art experience is needed, just an interest in learning and a desire to engage more fully with art.

Sign up for the entire series, or choose a specific program that interests you!

About the Instructor

Kerry Cobb teaches adult education courses in art history, art appreciation, and literature, bringing an accessible and engaging approach to every subject she leads. She previously served as Executive Director of the Columbia Center for the Arts in Hood River and has long been an advocate for community arts education.

Weekly Agenda

Feb 4: Visual Perception

Feb 11: Composition in Art

Feb 18: Elements of Style

Feb 25: (No Class)

March 4: Looking Closely at Portraits

March 11: Looking Closely at Landscapes

March 18: Looking Closely at Abstract Art

March 25: Looking Closely at Photography

Thursdays, 7:00–8:30 PM | 6 Week Program

Unlock your creative potential and bring your personal stories to life through music in this beginner-focused songwriting course with accomplished musician and songwriter Barry Crannell. Over six weeks, you’ll explore how to craft authentic, compelling songs that reflect your unique voice.

What You’ll Learn:

• The building blocks of a song: melody, lyrics, and structure

• Common song forms and how to use them effectively

• Techniques for writing freely and without judgment

• The art of authentic storytelling and connecting with your audience

• How to refine and rewrite your work to create polished songs

Through guided prompts, collaborative exercises, and individualized support, you’ll develop at least three original songs by the end of the course. Bring a notebook, a recording device (your phone works perfectly!), and your instrument of choice, and be ready to dive into the creative process.

About Your Instructor:

Barry has been immersed in music from his early days in garage bands to his performances spanning folk, rock, bluegrass, and Irish traditional styles. A veteran of the Marines, Barry honed his discipline and creativity while performing and teaching guitar in Eugene, Oregon.

Encouraged by producer Craig Carothers and mentored by acclaimed songwriter Lisa Aschmann, Barry has earned accolades in national and international songwriting contests, including the Kerrville New Folk Song Contest and Talent Is Timeless Songwriting Contest. His lyrics have been featured in American Songwriter Magazine. For over 20 years, he has taught guitar and introductory songwriting across the Pacific Northwest, emphasizing creativity, authentic expression, and the development of each student’s unique musical voice.

Currently, Barry performs and co-writes with his wife, fellow songwriter Julianna Waters. Their collaborative song “Don’t Shoot the Messenger” received Honorable Mention in the Talent Is Timeless Songwriting Contest.

Bring your stories to life! Discover your voice and write the songs only you can tell.

Only 10 spots available! Get your ticket while they last.

Experience an evening of poetry, community, and creative expression at TDAC’s first-ever Poetry Open Mic, hosted by local poet Laurel Kirby. Inspired by our current exhibition, Elemental: Earth, Air, Water, Fire, Spirit, this gathering invites writers of all ages and experience levels to share original work connected to the natural forces that shape our world, or pieces that speak directly to their inner spirit.

Poets are welcome to read several pieces, depending on poem length and the number of participants. Listeners are warmly encouraged to attend and enjoy the many voices and perspectives within our community.

This promises to be a thoughtful and uplifting evening, celebrating the power of language and the stories held within the elements.

Participation, whether as a poet or a listener, is free of charge. We hope you’ll join us in experiencing the artistry of written and spoken word!

Join us for a relaxed and fun evening of creativity! In this adults-only Sip & Paint class, each participant will select a pre-bisqued vase and learn simple glazing techniques to bring their design to life. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, this guided workshop is perfect for anyone looking to unwind, sip their favorite beverage, and create something beautiful. All materials are provided - just bring your imagination!

About the Instructor:

Amber Anderson is a local ceramic artist known for transforming raw clay into warm, functional pieces meant to be used and enjoyed. With more than a decade of experience in ceramics, she has recently expanded her practice to share and sell her work throughout the community.

In addition to her studio practice, Amber teaches ceramics to youth each summer through The Dalles Art Center and leads a variety of adult workshops ranging from glazing sessions to hand-building projects. She is passionate about fostering creativity and connection in the community and continues to collaborate closely with TDAC to offer accessible, engaging opportunities for all.

Experience the beauty of the winter Gorge from the warmth of the Discovery Center’s grand, river-facing windows. This February program brings the spirit of plein air painting indoors, offering artists a chance to observe and capture the subtle browns, whites, and atmospheric tones of the season without braving the cold.

Led by Portland artist Jinnet Powel, this acrylic class invites participants to slow down, study the landscape, and approach winter painting as both creative exploration and a form of quiet meditation. Jinnet will guide students through two foundational plein air techniques: using preliminary thumbnail sketches to clarify composition, and working with a limited palette to build luminous, compelling winter scenes.

This program takes place in the Discovery Center’s naturally lit lobby in front of their floor-to-ceiling windows, making it an ideal environment for direct observation and artistic focus. Your ticket includes full-day admission to the museum, allowing you to enjoy its exhibits before or after the class.

To learn more about the instructor, visit www.jinnetpowel.com.