CANCELLED - Elementary Art - Landscape Painting
2023-08-16 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Due to lack of registrants, this class has been cancelled.
Come paint your own masterpiece! Students ages 6-11 years old will discover acrylic paints while creating a beautiful landscape scene. This class will teach young artists how to mix paints, handle brushes, and translate what they see onto the canvas. All materials and instruction included. Class is $20 per student.

Family Nature Exploration: Time For Turtles
2023-08-20 15:00 - 17:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Ubiquitous and slow-moving, turtles are among Michigan’s most easy-to-study animals. This family exploration time introduces young naturalists to the biology of turtles in a fun and exciting way – through a combination of hands-on science and art. $5.00 per person. Pre-register online.
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/641601727037
This class is offered at a discount thanks to funding from The Americana Foundation, Michigan Arts & Culture Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Pastel Sunset (Elementary Art)
2023-08-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Students ages 6-11 years old will use pastels to create a colorful sunset. Using an easy stencil technique to create a mountain background with beautiful rays of color as the sun goes down. All materials and instruction included.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568387802217

Printing Magic (Elementary Art Class)
2023-08-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Students ages 6-11 years old will learn a variety of printing techniques. They will create a simple relief fish and leaves print. They will also be printing with celery, apples, and potatoes to create one-of-a-kind works of art as they discover the magic of printing.
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Class Size: Min. 4 / Max. 12
Class Fee: $20/student
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/568392546407

CANCELLED - Elementary Art Class - String Painting and Pastels
2023-09-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Elementary students ages 6-11 are invited to join us for a captivating artistic experience as we explore the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights through string painting and pastels.
Discover the unique technique of string painting, where vibrant colors are blended and intertwined to create stunning visual effects. Learn how to use pastels to capture the ethereal glow and magical hues of the Northern Lights.
Class fee is $20 per child and includes all materials and instruction.

CANCELLED - Family Nature Exploration - We're Nuts About Seed
2023-09-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Dive into the magical world of seeds during this interactive family event and learn why seeds are so important through hands on activities. We will take a close look at seeds, do a seed scavenger hunt and create works of art with seeds. It will be a fun time for all ages. $5.00 per person.

This event is offered at a discount thanks to support from The Americana Foundation.

CANCELLED - Let's Paint with Acrylics
2023-10-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Children ages 6-11 years old are welcome to join us for a fun-filled morning of creativity at our Elementary Art – Let’s Paint with Acrylics class! Whether your child is an aspiring artist or just loves art and learning, this event is perfect for them. During this class, kids will have the opportunity to explore their artistic talents and learn the basics of acrylic painting. Cheryl Gordon will guide them through various techniques and help them create their own masterpiece to take home. They’ll also have the chance to meet other young artists and make new friends who share their passion for art.
$20 per student. Includes instruction and all materials.

CANCELLED - Let's Have a Bat Chat - Family Nature Exploration
2023-10-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Let’s Have a Bat Chat – Family Nature Exploration
Join us for an exciting and educational adventure during our Family Nature Exploration event – “Let’s Have a Bat Chat”. Get ready to delve into the fascinating world of bats and discover their incredible abilities.
Come explore the hidden lives of bats through an engaging presentation and interactive activities. Learn about their unique behaviors, the importance of their role in the ecosystem, and the various species that inhabit our surroundings. We will shed some light on their remarkable adaptations, such as echolocation, and gain a deeper understanding of their significance in maintaining a balanced environment.
Pre-registration is required. Class fee is $5.00 per person.
This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from The Americana Foundation.

Elementary Art - Polymer Clay Animal Sculptures
2023-11-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Come join us for a fun-filled day of creativity and imagination at our Elementary Art class on Saturday November 4th from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Hessel School House. Children ages 6-11 years old are inited to unleash their inner artist and learn the art of sculpting adorable animal figures using polymer clay.
During this event, you will be guided by Cheryl Gordon who will teach the various techniques to create fun and colorful animal sculptures. From cute puppies to graceful birds, the possibilities are endless!
Space is limited, so make sure to secure your spot in advance. Don’t miss out on this exciting event!
$20 per child. Register online or call 906-484-1333.

Elves Day Out
2023-12-09 09:00 - 14:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Elves Day Out ~ A Holiday Gift Making Workshop JUST FOR KIDS!
Saturday, December 9
Choose Your Time ~ 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM or 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Only 12 seats available per session! Register early to save your seat!
Children ages 7 and up will have an opportunity to create handmade gifts for up to 4 people. Our holiday elves (aka Volunteers) will help your child transform their holiday gift giving list into magical handmade creations! Children will work along side our elves at four different workbench stations as they make their handmade treasures, which will be wrapped and ready for gift giving, not to be opened before December 25th! Before the event, children are highly encouraged to make a list of up to four people they would like to make a gift for and some of their favorite things. This will help our volunteers determine which crafts would be suitable for your child to make for each person. Workshop Fee: $10.00 per child. Pre-registration is required. To register your child, call 906-484-1333 or register online.
While your little elves are busy making Christmas gifts, you can take this time finish up some holiday shopping or simply relax!

Elementary Art - Sock Snowman Sculpture
2024-01-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Elementary Art Class – Sock Snowman Sculpture
Join us for a fun-filled Elementary Art Class where kids ages 6 and up will create adorable Sock Snowman Sculptures.
During this hands-on workshop, Cheryl Gordon will guide the children through the process of creating their own unique snowman sculptures using socks and various craft materials. They will learn how to stuff, shape, and decorate their snowmen, resulting in delightful winter decorations to cherish year round. We provide all the necessary materials.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity for your child to learn and have a blast! Limited spots are available, so be sure to reserve your child’s place now.
Class Fee: $20 per child
Class Size: Min. 4 students/ Max. 10 students
Register by calling 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE

Nature Soup - An all sensory nature experience for children
2024-01-27 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Nature Soup is a captivating and immersive nature experience designed specifically for children 1st – 5th grade. This 2-hour experience will be held on Saturday, January 27 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Hessel School House. This event combines hands-on activities and sensory exploration to ignite student’s curiosity about the natural world. Starting with the creation of a plaster tracks from rubber molds. We then engage their sense of touch and observation using animal pelts. Then we delve into the fascinating world of wildlife ‘imprinting’ by exploring various scents and learning how animals rely on their sense of smell. With Nature Soup, children can dive deep into the wonders of nature, fostering a love and appreciation for the environment around them.
This class will be taught by Maureen Stine, owner and educator of Naturology. To learn more about this organization, visit https://natureology.me.
Appropriate Ages: 1st – 5th grade students
Class Size: min. 4 / max. 16
Class Fee: $15 per student
REGISTER ONLINE or call 906-484-1333 to register and pay by phone.

Snowy Owl Month at Hessel School House
2024-02-02 09:00 - 23:30, 2024-02-03 00:00 - 23:30, 2024-02-04 00:00 - 17:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Come experience the magic of snowy owls during the month of February
Kick-off Weekend – February 2-4, 2024

Why are we celebrating Snowy Owls (and other winter birds)?
Every year, the National Audubon Society, an organization with the goal of protecting birds and their habitats, takes a survey and bird count of every major region in the state. Over the years, the count found that more snowy owls come to Rudyard and the surrounding area of the Eastern Upper Peninsula more than any other place in the state, and more than most other places throughout the country. Now that’s reason to celebrate!
What is the Snowy Owl Festival?
The Snowy Owl Festival is a month-long celebration that provides a unique opportunity for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and the local community to come together and witness the awe-inspiring presence of these magnificent birds. The kick-off weekend, February 2 – 4, 2024 will be filled with various activities and events organized to educate and engage participants. From guided birdwatching tours led by experienced owl watchers, to educational workshops and LIVE owl presentations, attendees have the chance to learn more about the snowy owl’s habitat, behavior, and conservation efforts. Additionally, the celebration showcases the artistic side of snowy owls through art classes for all ages that will showcase the unique beauty and cultural significance of these creatures.
Complete information about each event and registration details can be found below. All events require pre-registration and payment online or by calling 906-484-1333.

Financial support for this event and its many educational opportunities is made possible by the follow organizations.
THANK YOU for your support!

CANCELLED - Snowy Owl Painting (Elementary Art)
2024-02-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Come join us for a fun-filled morning of painting a snowy owl. Whether your child is an aspiring artist or just loves art and learning, this event is perfect for them. During this event, children ages 6 – 11 years old will have the opportunity to explore their artistic talents and learn the basics of acrylic painting. Cheryl Gordon will guide them through various techniques and help them create their own masterpiece to take home.
$20 per student includes instruction and all materials. Space is limited, pre-registration is required.
Due to illness, this class has been cancelled.

CANCELLED - Create a Beaded Owl
2024-02-17 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Bring a friend to create your very own beaded owl! Our instructor, Marissa Wissner, will guide you in the process of choosing colors and beading them into a beautiful owl that you can proudly display on your backpack, use as a key chain, or gift to a friend! All materials are provided and no experience is necessary! This class is for youth ages 7 & up. Pre-registration is required to attend. Class fee is $20 per student.

CANCELLED - Whoooo Knew? Family Nature Exploration
2024-02-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Whooo knew owls were so fascinating? We did! Come learn about owls during this science based, hands-on interactive, educational experience. Examine an owl’s wings and feathers up close to understand how these large birds can soar almost silently through the air. Dig into an owl pellet for a “hands-on” study on what an owl eats. Experience owl vision with by making your own pair of owl eyes. The class concludes with an owl art project to take home. This family friendly event is $5.00 per person. Space is limited and typically sells out, so register early to avoid disappointment.
Due to a lack of participants, this class has been cancelled.

Polymer Clay Bird & Nest Sculpture - Elementary Art
2024-03-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Young sculptors will have the opportunity to create a unique bird and its nest. Students will learn the basic sculpting techniques with polymer clay to create their works of art. They will also be able to do some light painting accents to their bird. Class is $20 per student. Limited to 10 students.
To register call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE

Discover the Science of Snowflakes
2024-03-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Family Nature Exploration: Discover the Science of Snowflakes
Saturday, March 23 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Join us as we delve into the intricate formations and unique properties of these delicate frozen wonders. Through captivating visuals and interactive activities, participants will explore the science behind snowflake formation, understand the factors that contribute to their incredible diversity, and witness the fascinating beauty of these icy crystals. Prepare to be amazed as we unlock the secrets of nature’s dazzling masterpiece. $5 per person.

Funding for this program provided by Les Cheneaux Community Foundation.

Buggin' Out
2024-04-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Family Nature Exploration Time
BUGGIN’ OUT with Maureen Stine
Saturday, April 20, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
In this interactive program for children of all ages, we’ll look closely at the amazing world of insects from their life cycles to their role in the food web. Maureen Stine will teach us about some “bug basics” including their characteristics and incredible adaptations which enable them to live everywhere on earth! lf time and weather allows, we’ll go on a search for these critical critters! Class will conclude with a bug related craft project with artist Cheryl Gordon.
Class fee: $5.00 per person.

Nature Inspired Arts & Crafts for Kids
2024-06-01 13:00 - 15:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Young naturalist of all ages are welcome to join us on the front lawn of the Hessel School House for a variety of nature inspired arts and crafts. This event takes place between 1 – 3 pm on Saturday, June 1st during the Aldo Leopold Festival. From vibrant stick painting to dazzling sun catchers, and fish windsocks there is something for everyone to enjoy creating. This free event is open to the public and a Aldo Leopold Festival pass is not required to attend the arts and crafts time. Donations are appreciated.

Elementary Art: Landscape Painting
2024-07-01 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Elementary Art: Landscape Painting
July 1 from 10am-12pm
Join us for an exciting elementary art class designed specifically for 6-11 year olds focused on landscape painting. Unleash your creativity and learn step-by-step painting techniques to create your very own unique landscape masterpiece. This class is the perfect opportunity for young artists to explore their artistic abilities and create something truly special. Don’t let your child miss out on this fun and educational painting experience.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online

CANCELLED - Elementary Art: Sculpty Frogs
2024-07-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Sculpty Frogs
July 10 • 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Just in time for Frog Fest! Join us for a fun and creative elementary art class tailored for children ages 6-11 years old! In this engaging workshop, students will have the opportunity to craft their very own frogs using polymer clay and paper. Through hands-on instruction, young artists will learn basic sculpture techniques to mold and shape their own unique and one-of-a-kind frog creations out of polymer clay. While the clay frogs bake to perfection, students will also have the chance to get crafty and create simple yet delightful 3D paper frogs. This class promises a fantastic blend of sculpting, crafting, and imaginative fun for all young artists!
Class Fee: $20.00
Due to lack of registrations, this class has been cancelled.

Lawn Frog Painting
2024-07-13 10:00 - 13:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
After visiting the Frog Fest in Cedarville, hop on over to the Hessel School House to paint a wooden cutout frog. Everything you need to decorate your frog is provided. Wood cutouts are available while supplies lasts. This event is free, but donations are always appreciated.

DRAMA ROCKS! A drama camp for ages 6-11
2024-07-22 13:00 - 15:00, 2024-07-24 10:00 - 14:00, 2024-07-26 10:00 - 13:00 | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
DRAMA ROCKS! A three-session drama camp for children ages 6-11
THREE SESSIONS: July 22, 24, and 26
Monday, July 22: 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Wednesday, July 24: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Friday, July 26: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Ahoy, Matey! If you love to use your imagination, we have a camp for you!
Hessel School House is offering a drama camp for actors ages 6 – 11! Using great stories, legends, and songs of the high seas, we will use our acting skills to bring these stories to life. Actors will be building their skills through games, activities, and short skits with director Karen Mazzoline. On Wednesday work with artist Cheryl Gordon to create unique masks and props to go with our camp sessions! Bring a sack lunch on Wednesday as we have morning and afternoon sessions those days. On the last day of camp, we will be putting our acting skills to practice by performing for our family and friends! A reception will follow our performance. A more detailed schedule will be emailed to those who register for this fun camp!

WORKSHOP SCHEDULE
Monday, July 22 • 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday, July 24 • 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Friday, July 26 • 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Let your child’s inner star shine during this fun and engaging drama camp!

During this event, your child will:
• Delve into the world of dramatic play and explore their inner actor
• Get crafty and create their own props and masks to use in performances
• Learn acting techniques from an experienced instructor
• Showcase their new skills in a thrilling performance for family and friends
• Celebrate with a special afterglow reception, complete with treats and praise for their accomplishments!

Class Fee: $80.00
Class size is limited to 12. Register now and give your child the gift of creative expression!

To register your child, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=11700

Sea Shanty Concert at Hessel Marina
2024-07-29 19:30 - 20:30, 2024-07-30 19:30 - 20:30 | MI
Join us for an unforgettable evening of sea shanties with the talented duo, True Fact, featuring Diego Bermudez and Sam Thibeault. The event takes place at the Hessel Marina on Monday, July 29 and Tuesday, July 30 at 7:30 PM for two enchanting nights filled with music and maritime tales.
This **FREE lawn concert** is the perfect opportunity to unwind—bring your blankets or chairs and get ready to sing along as Diego and Sam share their passion for all things nautical and historical. As skilled deckhands aboard the Schooner Huron Jewel, they’ve charmed audiences with their lively performances, and now it’s your turn to join in the merriment!
Immerse yourself in the songs of the Inland Seas and hear thrilling tales of daring seafarers. Whether you want to learn the shanties or simply clap along, it’s bound to be a fun-filled experience! And if you play an instrument, feel free to bring it along!
**Don’t miss out on this musical voyage—see you there!**
This event is co-hosted by Drummond Island Tall Ship Co. and Hessel School House
