The Westside Art Association has an artistic summer planned with two upcoming workshops at the Newman Public Library, led by Committee Chair Caroline Nelson. The first class, Build a Journal from Scratch, will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. July 23. The second class, Drawing an Abstract Animal, is scheduled for Aug. 13 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., with potential September classes.
“The Westside Art Association has been around since 1977,” said Nelson. “It started as a group of crafters in town who got together and eventually expanded to include various forms of art. Over the years, we’ve evolved and adapted, especially after COVID-19 changed many of our plans.”
Nelson, who has been with the WAA since 2011, emphasized the association’s shift towards creating a more inclusive and artist-focused
community.
“I want the artists of the Westside to get together, share resources and knowledge, and then expand this to the community through art lessons, meetups, and other events,” Nelson explained. “Art is not just about crafting; it’s about expressing yourself.”
The first workshop, Build a Journal from Scratch, invites participants to create a journal using materials found at home. This hands-on class aims to show that anyone can make art with everyday items, emphasizing creativity and personal expression.
“All supplies will be provided,” Nelson noted. “You just have to walk in and be ready to express yourself through art.”
The second workshop, Drawing an Abstract Animal, will focus on multimedia techniques, combining watercolor and acrylic paints.
“It’s a great opportunity for participants to explore different aspects of art and find what they enjoy the most,” said Nelson. “This class has limited seating due to the detailed nature of the project, so we encourage early registration.”
Nelson also shared her vision for the future of the WAA, aiming to foster a community of artists who regularly meet to create and share ideas.
“I want to see our members coming together, maybe for painting or urban sketching, just to share their work and inspire each other,” said Nelson. “Art is a way to relax and express yourself, and I want our group to be a place where everyone feels comfortable doing that.”
Both workshops are free and open to the public, with all supplies provided. For more information, interested participants can contact Caroline Nelson at (209) 895-0423 or visit the WAA’s Facebook page.
