A Creative Community Blooms in Jonesboro
An Art Colony is taking shape in Clayton County. Called Harvest Village, the non-profit organization holds a diverse variety of really affordable classes on such subjects as painting, drawing, print making, and even a ukulele workshop.
“We have teachers that love their subjects,” said Jennifer Hunter, Administrator for Harvest Village and one of the teachers. “We offer all these things that grow the community and encourage you to do your best to serve God.”
Harvest Village has an array of offerings that include physical activities, ranging from chair aerobics to pickleball. A Walking Club takes off most every morning.
Arts & Crafts for All Ages
Hunter describes Harvest Village as a community that thrives when individuals come together to share their experiences and work collaboratively toward common goals. “It encourages innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration among residents. Creative initiatives lead to economic development, attracting talent and visitors alike,” she said.
It is the arts that Harvest Village has put together that define it as a program. The group’s stated mission is to “strengthen the fabric of the community one program at a time.” Most of the programs are available for $5.00 per session.
Margaret Holcombe has taught art for more than 30 years. She heads the Painting and Drawing Workshop on Monday evenings. Jerushia Graham gives a Print Making Class using relief printmaking, which can be done on any surface that has shallow variations in height.
Music, Movement, and More
Learn a new skill by taking the Cricut Makers Lab. What is a Cricut? A Cricut machine is a smart cutting machine that, using digital files and software, allows you to cut and create precise, intricate designs on various materials including paper, cardstock, vinyl, iron-on (heat transfer vinyl). Some Cricut models can cut thicker materials such as fabric, wood, and leather.
If you would like to stick to the more traditional crafts, Harvest Village offers classes on knitting and sewing. Jennifer Hunter, who learned to knit as a child, teaches knitting and crocheting. She encourages beginners to join the group. Rhonda Thayer teaches sewing on Tuesday evenings.
“But bring your own machine,” said Hunter.
Baking is often referred to a stress reducer. A three-day class on Sourdough Breadmaking guides wannabe chefs through the process from starter to finished loaf. Everything is provided except for the bread baking pan and a Dutch oven.
Chloe Mincey is the fitness instructor for the weekly Pilate Power Hour. She invites newbies or seasoned pros to join this intensive class. If Pilates seem a bit much for your body, try the Chair Aerobics taught by Holistic Transformation Coach Dr. Sonnet Ford-Grant.
Like to sing in the shower? Bring your voice to the Harvest Village Glee Club, meeting every Wednesday at 11 a.m., where the only requirement is that you like to sing. Along musical lines, a Ukulele Workshop is being hosted by Patrick McWilliams and Roche every Monday and Thursday evenings. All levels of players are welcomed.
Special one-time only classes are being planned for the summer months. A Robotics Camp is scheduled for July 7-11 in the evenings. Flower Arranging will be held on June 12. Plans were still underway to host a Gardening class, but Hunter said the class most likely be held in the autumn. Check the website for and up-to-date schedule.
“In addition to the classes, we hold a community dinner on most of the major holidays such as Fourth of July and Christmas. Sitting down to a meal really brings the community together,” said Hunter
Harvest Village classes are held at the Harvest Baptist Tabernacle Activities Center located at 1974 Walt Stephens Road, Jonesboro, GA 30236.
For more information call Harvest Village at 404 482-0155 or visit the website http://www.harvestvillage.com.