Stained Glass Easter Eggs
2025-04-05 10:00 - 15:00 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Come and create a stunning stained glass Easter Egg with the talented artist Connie Thompson. This hands-on experience is designed for all skill levels—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, you’ll leave with a beautiful piece to cherish or gift. All materials are included, so just bring your creativity and enthusiasm! With a limited class size of just 6 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention and guidance throughout the day.
Class Fee: $75.00
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online

If this class is full, please call 906-484-1333 to be added to the Waiting List.

PAINT & SIP: Cherry Blossoms
2025-04-18 18:30 - 20:30
Cherry Blossoms Paint ‘n Sip 🌸🍷🎨
Welcome spring with an evening of creativity and relaxation at the Hessel School House! Join artist Karen Mazzoline as she guides you step-by-step in painting beautiful cherry blossoms, one of the season’s most iconic symbols.
Learn how to add depth and texture using brush techniques while enjoying a laid-back, social atmosphere. Choose your canvas shape and size, and let your creativity bloom! No experience? No problem! All materials are provided—just bring yourself and a love for springtime beauty.
📅 Date: Friday, April 18
⏰ Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM
📍 Location: Hessel School House
💲 Cost: $40.00
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18806&action=ticket&action_ticket=31476
Grab a drink, pick up a brush, and let’s paint the night away! 🍷🌸✨ Reserve your spot today!

CANCELLED - Young Weavers - Weave a Pillow
2025-04-19 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-04-26 10:00 - 12:00
Young Weavers Program
Saturdays, April 19 & 26, 2025
10:00 am-12:00 pm

Hey young artists! Have you ever wanted to try weaving? Now’s your chance! Join us for Young Weavers, a fun and hands-on class where you’ll learn to weave on a small loom and create your very own colorful masterpiece. Best of all—you can turn your weaving into a pillow to take home! Led by artist Kathy Thomas, this two-part Saturday morning workshop is perfect for kids ages 8-12 who love to get creative. No experience? No problem! Kathy will guide you through the process step by step. ?

What You’ll Do:
✅ Learn basic weaving techniques
✅ Experiment with different colors and textures
✅ Weave a one-of-a-kind design
✅ Turn your finished piece into a cozy pillow!

All materials are provided—just bring your imagination!

Cost: $30
(Discounted thanks to a grant from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council)

To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online. Space is limited, so sign up today and get ready to weave, create, and have fun!

CANCELLED - Fabric Felt Bunnies: A Springtime Sewing Class
2025-04-19 13:00 - 15:00
Fabric Felt Bunnies: A Springtime Sewing Class 🐰🧵🌸
Add a charming touch of spring to your home with handmade fabric felt bunnies! Join us for this relaxing and creative adult art class where artist Marissa Wissner will guide you step-by-step in crafting your own adorable set of bunnies using fabric, felt, and simple sewing techniques.
No prior sewing experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and enjoy an afternoon of crafting in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. All materials are provided!
📅 Date: Friday, April 19
⏰ Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Hessel School House
💲 Cost: $35.00
Spaces are limited—sign up today and hop into spring with your handmade bunnies! 🐇✨
TO REGISTER: call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18806&action=ticket&action_ticket=31477

Mommy & Me Painting Class
2025-05-03 10:00 - 12:00
Mommy & Me Painting Class
🦋🌸 Create a Beautiful Memory Together! 🌸🦋
Celebrate Mother’s Day with a special Mommy & Me painting class at the Hessel School House! Join artist Karen Mazzoline for a fun and creative session where you and your child will each paint your own canvas—when placed side by side, your paintings will come together to form a stunning image of a butterflies resting on flowers.
No experience is needed—just bring your creativity and enjoy a morning of laughter, bonding, and artistic fun! (This class is appropriate for a parent and child from 5 to 15 years old.)
📅 Date: Saturday, May 3
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Hessel School House
💲 Cost: $45 per pair (includes all materials)
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18819&action=ticket&action_ticket=31501
Spaces are limited—register now and make this Mother’s Day extra special! 💕🎨

CANCELLED - Teen Weavers: Intro to Tapestry Weaving
2025-05-03 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-05-10 10:00 - 12:00
Due to a lack of registrations, this class was cancelled.
Teen Weavers: Intro to Tapestry Weaving 🧶✨
Calling all young artists! Join us for Teen Weavers, a hands-on weaving program where kids ages 12-16 will learn the art of tapestry weaving. Over the course of two Saturday mornings, students will explore basic weaving techniques and create their own one-of-a-kind tapestry using a small loom.
Led by artist Kathy Thomas, this fun and interactive class will guide students through the process from start to finish—no experience needed! All materials are provided, so just bring your creativity and get ready to weave something amazing.
📅 Dates: Two Saturdays – (May 3 and 10, 2025)
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Hessel School House
👧👦 Ages: 8-12
💲 Cost: $25.00
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18819&action=ticket&action_ticket=31507
Spaces are limited—sign up today and let the weaving adventure begin! 🧵🎨
This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council.

Intro to Oil Pastels
2025-05-03 13:00 - 15:00
Intro to Oil Pastels
Unleash your creativity and explore the bold, vibrant world of oil pastels! Join artist Karen Mazzoline for a relaxing and engaging afternoon where you’ll learn essential techniques, tips, and tricks to create a stunning sunrise over a lake.
In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll practice blending, layering, and adding texture before bringing your own masterpiece to life. No experience needed—all materials are provided!
📅 Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
⏰ Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Hessel School House
💲 Cost: $40 per person
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18819&action=ticket&action_ticket=31504
Let your creativity shine—sign up today and bring a sunrise to life with oil pastels! 🌞🎨✨

PAINT & SIP: Canoe on the Shore
2025-05-09 18:30 - 20:30
Canoe on the Shore Paint ‘n Sip 🎨🛶🍷
Looking for a fun and creative night out with friends? Join us for an evening of painting and sipping at the Hessel School House!
Using acrylic paint on a wood panel, artist Karen Mazzoline will guide you step by step in creating a beautiful canoe-themed painting—a perfect piece to capture the beauty of Northern Michigan’s waters. No experience? No worries! Just bring your creativity and your favorite beverage to sip while you paint.
📅 Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM
📍 Location: Hessel School House
💲 Cost: $40 per person
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18819&action=ticket&action_ticket=31505
Relax, sip, and create! 🖌️🍷 Reserve your spot today!

Bead and Quill Earrings
2025-05-10 09:00 - 16:00
Join us for a captivating Native American Bead and Quill Earring Workshop led by the talented Tricia Boucha, a renowned Mosaic and Saulteaux Wearables artist. This immersive workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn the intricate art of bead and quillwork, a traditional craft that celebrates the rich heritage of Native American culture. No prior experience is necessary, making this workshop perfect for both beginners and those looking to refine their skills. All materials will be provided, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable crafting experience. As you work alongside Tricia, you’ll not only develop your artistic abilities but also gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance behind this type of art. Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot today! This is an all day class. Students are encouraged to bring snacks or a sack lunch. A fridge and microwave are available to use.
Class Fee: $50
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18819&action=ticket&action_ticket=31494

Stained Glass Spring Flowers (Friday Class)
2025-05-16 10:00 - 15:00
Due to popular demand, we’ve added an additional class!
Join us on May 16th to create a beautiful stained glass flower with artist Connie Thompson. This hands-on experience is designed for all skill levels—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, you’ll leave with a beautiful piece to cherish or gift. All materials are included, so just bring your creativity and enthusiasm! The workshop will take place at the Hessel School House from 10 AM to 3 PM. With a limited class size of just 6 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention and guidance throughout the day.
Class fee: $75.00
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18819&action=ticket&action_ticket=31493

Stained Glass Spring Flowers
2025-05-17 10:00 - 15:00
Join us on May 17th to create a beautiful stained glass flower with artist Connie Thompson. This hands-on experience is designed for all skill levels—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, you’ll leave with a beautiful piece to cherish or gift. All materials are included, so just bring your creativity and enthusiasm! The workshop will take place at the Hessel School House from 10 AM to 3 PM. With a limited class size of just 6 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention and guidance throughout the day.
Class fee: $75.00
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18819&action=ticket&action_ticket=31493

Aldo Leopold Festival
2025-05-28 09:00 - 17:00
The Hessel Schools House welcomes you to celebrate the legacy of Aldo Leopold — one of America’s most influential naturalists — during our 10th Annual Aldo Leopold Festival, May 28th – June 1st, 2025. Activities include paddling excursions, orchid and wildflower tours, birding trips, presentations, and many other nature-based activities. Experience the woods and water that formed Leopold’s early impressions of the natural world as we honor the mark he made on conservation and the environment.
Tickets go on sale April 1, 2025. (No foolin’).
For a complete list of events, trips, tours, and more, visit https://aldoleopoldfestival.org/

CANCELLED - Birch Bark Tray with Quill Work
2025-06-07 10:00 - 14:00
THIS CLASS HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
Birch Bark Tray with Quill Work – 2-Day Workshop with Ron PaquinSaturdays | June 7 and 14 from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | $100 per person
Join us for a unique hands-on experience in traditional Native American artistry with renowned artist Ron Paquin. In this special two-day workshop, you’ll learn how to craft a stunning birch bark tray adorned with a delicate trillium flower made from porcupine quills.
June 7: You’ll be guided through the process of shaping and stitching your birch bark tray—a foundational skill in woodland-style basketry.June 14: Return the following Saturday to learn the intricate art of quillwork. Under Ron’s expert instruction, you’ll bring your tray to life with a beautifully quilled trillium design.
Whether you’re a beginner or a returning student, this is an incredible opportunity to explore a timeless tradition and walk away with a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

Gourd Gnome Homes
2025-06-11 09:00 - 13:00
Join us for a whimsical crafting experience led by talented gourd artist Clarlyn Ledy! Unleash your creativity as you learn the art of transforming a simple gourd into an enchanting gnome home or delightful birdhouse. Clarlyn will guide you through a step-by-step process, sharing her expert techniques for painting and embellishing your creation. Perfect for all skill levels, this class promises a fun and relaxing atmosphere where you can let your imagination run wild.
Class Fee: $50, all materials included. Feel free to bring your own embellishments to personalize your gnome home even more.

To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18869&action=ticket&action_ticket=31512

Examples of Gourd Gnome Homes for inspiration!

CANCELLED - Fabric Flowers
2025-06-11 13:00 - 16:00
Due to a lack of registrations, this class has been cancelled.
FABRIC FLOWERS CLASS (adult): Wednesday, June 11th, 1 pm – 4 pm
Bring the beauty of flowers into your home with fabric! Artist Marissa Wissner will guide you through the process of creating your own fabric flowers! Using colorful fabric, thread, and embellishments, learn how to choose and cut patterns, sew stitching techniques, and apply materials to your work. Everything for this class will be provided, so bring your enthusiasm for learning and creating! Enjoy your afternoon experience even more by bringing a friend!
Class Fee: $40/person

Birch Bark & Willow Picture Frame
2025-06-12 09:30 - 12:30
Join artist Bob Causley for a unique art class where you’ll learn how to create your own 8 x 10″ frame using birch bark and red willow. In this hands-on, make and take style class, Bob will guide you through the process of crafting a stunning frame that’s perfect for your lodge decor or cottage. All materials are included, and the cost is $55 per student. Don’t miss this opportunity to create and take home a beautiful piece of art. Sign up now to secure your spot!
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18869&action=ticket&action_ticket=32397

This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District.

Stained Glass: Flag Day
2025-06-14 10:00 - 15:00
Join us to create a beautiful stained glass flag with artist Connie Thompson. This hands-on experience is designed for all skill levels—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, you’ll leave with a beautiful piece to cherish or gift. All materials are included, so just bring your creativity and enthusiasm! The workshop will take place at the Hessel School House from 10 AM to 3 PM. With a limited class size of just 6 participants, you’ll receive personalized attention and guidance throughout the day.
Class Fee: $75.00 per person.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online.

CANCELLED - Native American Beaded Cuff Bracelet
2025-06-17 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-06-18 09:00 - 17:00
Due to a scheduling conflict, this class has been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date.
Traditional Native American Beaded Cuff Bracelet
2 Full Day Workshop!
June 17 & 18 – 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Join us at Hessel School House for a captivating Native American Beaded Cuff Bracelet Workshop led by the talented Saulteaux wearable artist, Tricia Boucha. This hands-on experience invites participants of all skill levels to explore the rich tradition of Native American beadwork while crafting a unique cuff bracelet that reflects your personal style. Tricia will share her expertise in traditional techniques, guiding you through each step of the beading process, from selecting vibrant beads to assembling your masterpiece. As you create, you’ll learn about the cultural significance of beadwork in Native American heritage, allowing you to connect with the artistry and history behind this beautiful craft. All materials will be provided, ensuring you have everything you need to bring your vision to life.
Class Fee: $185 per person.
(Includes all materials and expert instruction by guest artist Tricia Boucha.)

Image shown may vary from style instructor teaches. Examples of her work are shown here.

Patriotic Paint & Sip
2025-06-25 17:00 - 19:00
Hessel School House is “changing it up” with an abstract painting class! Using the impasto method in acrylic, participants will paint a whimsical patriotic flag on 9 x 12 canvas board! This painting can be placed anywhere in the home and will add beauty to your décor! All materials will be provided, and artist Karen Mazzoline will guide you through the creative process. Come and enjoy an evening of painting with a friend!
$40 per student
NOTE NEW TIME FOR JUNE: – 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
To register, call 906-484-1333 or click here register online

Mixed Media Mini Books
2025-06-28 09:00 - 12:00
Unleash your creativity with author and artist Jan Kellis while you craft a one-of-a-kind mini book in this hands-on workshop! Using just one sheet of paper, you’ll learn how to fold and transform it into a six-page book, ready to be filled with your personal touch. Decorate your book with collage, acrylic paints, markers, and pens, and make it truly unique.

At just 3” x 4.5” when finished, your mini book is the perfect pocket-sized space for poetry, favorite quotes, song lyrics, or personal musings. Whether you want to create a tiny art journal, a gift for a friend, or a keepsake filled with inspiration, this workshop will guide you through the process.
All supplies included! Feel free to bring your own collage elements if you have something special you’d like to incorporate.
Join us for a fun and relaxed creative session—no experience needed!

Class fee: $35.00

To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18869&action=ticket&action_ticket=31511

Watercolor Refresher (2 day class)
2025-07-09 10:00 - 12:00
Wednesdays, July 9 and July 23
10:00 PM – 12:00 PM
Watercolor Refresher Workshop
Brush up on your watercolor skills by attending our watercolor refresher class! Through quick exercises, fun activities, and creative projects, build your skill set and feel more confident in working with this medium. This is a two-week session, so you will have the opportunity to practice what you have learned. Artist Karen Mazzoline will offer different painting styles, techniques, and types of watercolor paints during the course. Have a specific technique you would like to learn? Karen will contact you before class starts to receive any questions or topics you would like to cover and will include them in the sessions! All materials will be provided, but if you would rather use your own watercolor paints, feel free to bring them along!
Class Size is limited. $55 per student. Register today by calling 906-484-1333 or register online.

Painting with Nature
2025-07-09 13:00 - 15:00
Wednesday, July 9 – 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Painting with Nature
Spend the afternoon painting with nature! With guidance from artist Marissa Wissner, young people ages 6-11 years old will learn how to utilize needles, tree bark, and other elements of nature to paint a stunning work of art! All materials will be provided but be dressed to take a walk outside for gathering your nature finds!
Space is limited. To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at

https://www.eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=19963&action=ticket&action_ticket=33226

This class is offered with support from the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District.

Beach Landscape Tapestry Weaving
2025-07-11 09:30 - 13:30, 2025-07-18 09:30 - 13:30
Beach Landscape Tapestry Weaving
Fridays, July 11 & 18 | 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Instructor: Cheryl Gordon
Capture the beauty of the natural world in woven form during this two-session workshop with fiber artist Cheryl Gordon. Designed for beginners and experienced weavers alike, this class introduces a variety of tapestry weaving techniques to help you create your own landscape inspired textile art.
Working on pre-warped looms to jump-start the process, students will explore texture, color blending, and composition while learning to translate natural coastal scenery into expressive woven pieces.
The class is limited to eight students ensuring you receive individualized instruction in a casual atmosphere. All materials—including yarn, tools, and a loom to use during class—are provided, and students will leave with a completed small tapestry and the skills to continue weaving on their own.
Open to adults and teens 16+. Space is limited to 8 —register early to reserve your loom!
Class Fee: $110.00
To reserve your spot call 906-484-1333 or register online.

Capturing Nature Through the Lens: A Full-Day Photography Workshop with Wayne Pope
2025-07-12 10:00 - 16:00
Capturing Nature Through the Lens: A Photography Workshop with Wayne Pope
Saturday, July 12, 2025
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center
Sharpen your photography skills and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world with Wayne Pope, a professional nature photographer and adjunct faculty member at Lansing Community College, where he teaches photography. This full-day workshop is designed for both beginners and experienced photographers looking to refine their skills. This hands-on session will guide participants through the art of capturing the beauty of the natural world—whether using a digital camera or smartphone.
What to Expect:
Classroom Learning: Explore the fundamentals of photography, including camera types, composition techniques, depth of field, and lighting to elevate your nature shots.
Field Experience: Put your knowledge into action with a guided photo session at a local nature preserve, where Wayne will offer expert tips on framing, perspective, and capturing wildlife and landscapes in real time.
Lunch Provided: Enjoy a break and connect with fellow nature enthusiasts over a provided meal.
With years of experience as an educator and photographer, Wayne brings expert insights and personalized guidance to help you see nature through a new lens—whether you’re using a digital camera or smartphone.
What to Bring:
A digital camera or smartphone with camera capabilities, comfortable walking shoes, and a passion for nature photography!
Limited spots available—register today to secure your place!
Class Fee: $50 per person, includes full day of instruction, lunch and refreshments.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online.
This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District.
__________________________
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR:
Wayne Pope – As a college photography instructor, I help students reach their career goals. My teaching slogan is, “Keeping Your Interests At Heart.” As a business owner of Pope Photo Tours, I provide quality photo safaris that are safe, afforable and fun. As a photo workshop presenter, I provide easy-to-understand, visually-oriented lectures and one-to-one instruction to students in the field.
I have self-published two books: “Birds of Michigan” and “My Favorite Facebook Photos”. I was trained as a Chinese-Mandarin interpreter in the U.S. Army and have a minor degree in Chinese Language from MSU. As a photojournalist, I write and photograph articles for The Lansing State Journal, Michigan-Out-Of-Doors, Michigan Living and Michigan Audubon Society magazines. I am a poet and have been published in Washington Square Review.

Nature Journaling: The Seasonal Round
2025-07-16 13:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-17 13:00 - 16:00
GUEST ARTIST: Jen Wozniak – Artist, Educator, and Nature Journaling Enthusiast
Nature Journaling: The Seasonal Round
Two Day Workshop – July 16 & 17 | 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Step into the rhythm of the seasons with artist and educator Jen Wozniak in this inspiring two-day workshop focused on The Seasonal Round—a nature journaling practice rooted in the study of phenology, or the seasonal changes in plants and animals throughout the year.
In this immersive, hands-on class, Jen will guide participants in starting or deepening their own “Perpetual Nature Journal,” a place-specific, multi-year journal that tracks natural patterns over time. Through observation, drawing, writing, and discussion, participants will learn how to document the subtle and surprising shifts in the environment—while cultivating a greater sense of connection, belonging, and stewardship for the land they inhabit.
Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a curious beginner, Jen’s approach blends scientific inquiry with creative expression to help you observe the world with fresh eyes. With her encouraging, joy-driven style, she helps participants set aside perfectionism and reconnect with the natural world through play, curiosity, and mindfulness. Join us for this engaging and reflective workshop, and leave with tools and inspiration to continue your journaling practice throughout the seasons—and for years to come.
All materials are provided, but feel free to bring your own colored pencils, markers, watercolors, and notebook if you choose. Open to adults and teens 13+. Space is limited—register early!
Thanks to a grant from the Chippewa Luce Mackinaw Conservation District this class is now offered at a discounted rate. Regular price $120 per student. NOW only $80 per student. Take advantage of this generous support from our local partner and join us for this amazing workshop.
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ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR: Jen Wozniak – Artist, Educator, and Nature Journaling Enthusiast Jen Wozniak is an artist, educator, and avid observer of the natural world whose work bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and creative expression. She teaches Art and Field Studies at Springwater Environmental Sciences School in Oregon, where she encourages students to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and a deep connection to nature. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Printmaking from the Pacific Northwest College of Art, Jen’s artistic foundation is rooted in detailed observation and storytelling through imagery. However, she considers her greatest expertise to be her lifelong practice of approaching the natural world with beginner’s awe—a perspective that keeps her learning and discovering every day.
Jen’s passion for nature journaling has led her to develop a method of artistic engagement that helps both children and adults overcome self-judgment. Through her workshops, she invites participants to reconnect with the natural world through play, curiosity, and an open heart, bypassing the pressures of perfection to embrace the joy of observing and documenting the world around them. Her approach fosters a sense of wonder, mindfulness, and personal expression, transforming nature journaling into a tool for both scientific discovery and creative exploration.
Whether marveling at the delicate structure of a feather, the intricate gills of a fungus, or the shifting colors of a sunset, Jen believes that every observation is an opportunity for learning and connection. Through her teaching, she continues to inspire others to see nature—and themselves—through fresh eyes, encouraging deeper appreciation and engagement with the landscapes we inhabit.
Examples of Jen’s Nature Journaling
