Encore Creativity for Older Adults - Encore University (EU)

Encore University Fall Semester 2026

Encore University (EU) is an online creative wellness enrichment program available to anyone in the world who is 55+. Thanks to sponsorship by AARP, Encore University is offered for FREE or “pay as you will”. All classes are live online using Zoom and are recorded for viewing later. Registration is required for all EU programs.

Franklin Park Arts Center — Purcellville

Life Model Sketching Class

Artists can further develop their skills in sketching the human form. With some guidance from instructor and professional artist Carmen Barros Howell, participants will sketch from both short and long poses. Bring your own supplies; a limited number of easels will be provided and tables/chairs will be set up for those not able to use an easel. Class is limited to 9 students. You must be 21+ to participate in this class.

Start Lunch with the Arts

Bring your own lunch to this informal table gathering and hear from an exhibiting artist in our Still Life exhibit about their process and inspiration. Meet other art-enthusiasts or fellow artists and build community. We will end with a short meditation to encourage a deeper appreciation of the artwork in our Family exhibit.

Silver Scripts Reading Circle

(Ages 55+) Seniors will read aloud from plays, short scripts or dramatic scenes, bringing characters and dialogue to life without the need for memorization, costumes, or staging. No prior acting or theatre experience needed. You can read, or just listen, and join in on the discussions in this friendly and supportive environment. Script Circles are gatherings where a group of people read and discuss a short play or story, sometimes reading a new work aloud for the first time.

Suzanne Lago Arthur - Lucketts

“Beginner Beginner” Adult Oil Painting Bootcamp

Do you want to learn how to paint in oils but don’t know how to get started? Or perhaps you have taken some classes in the past but are not sure how to begin again? Then the “Beginner Beginner” Adult Painting Boot Camp is for you! This is a “Sip & Paint” style class with one clear difference, you will actually learn how to paint—not just copy someone else’s painting. All materials will be provided. Makes for a fun afternoon out with friends.

Waterford Craft School

Warm Spices & Winter Botanicals: A Natural Soap-Making and Essential Oils Experience

Create your own winter-inspired natural soap using seasonal essential oils, warm spices, and botanicals. Learn the basics of traditional cold-process soap-making, then take home your handmade soap, wooden mold, gift packaging, and care instructions.

Christmas in Paper: An Introduction to Quilling

Learn the art of quilling while creating a festive holiday greeting card using a quilling comb. Perfect for beginners, you’ll leave with a handmade card and the skills to keep creating at home.

Tablet Tethers: Modern Gifts, Ancient Craft

Learn the ancient art of tablet weaving while creating a colorful wristlet keychain or phone tether. Explore the basics of weaving patterns and techniques while making a practical accessory to keep or give as a gift.

Fused Glass Holiday Ornaments

Create two festive fused glass ornaments while exploring two different glass techniques. Finished ornaments will be kiln-fired and returned to Waterford Craft School for pickup.

The Art of Handmade Jewelry: Wire, Clay and Resin

Explore wire and beadwork, polymer clay, and UV resin in this fun, approachable jewelry workshop. Create earrings, an adjustable ring, and pendants while experimenting with colorful clay, dried florals, and ways to repurpose old jewelry.

Bobbin Lace Holiday Ornament

Learn the timeless art of bobbin lace as you create a delicate lace ornament perfect for the holiday season. You'll be introduced to the basic cross and twist stitches while making an elegant keepsake to display or give as a gift. No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided.

Intro to Stone Carving

Learn traditional hand carving techniques and create lettering or a relief design in locally sourced soapstone. Practice tool handling, then carve using a template or your own drawing.

Open Studio: Guided Stone Carving

Spend the afternoon carving at your own pace with guidance from instructor Bethany Lee.

Quilted Tree Skirt

Using the quilt as you go method, we will construct a somewhat improv tree skirt. Students will be able to choose their fabrics from the instructor's supply, or students can bring their own in order to match your decor.