Find a pleasant diversion this summer and learn to create stationery, iced cookies, calligraphy, needlework and watercolor postcards in this new series that teaches refined skills in two hours.Learn an elegant art skill and enjoy a touch of whimsy this summer with weekly workshops inspired by the series “Bridgerton” presented by ArtPlay Community Education.
“Whimsical Wednesdays” will feature five evening workshops in June and July in the historic ArtPlay House, 1006 19th St. South. The cost for each two-hour workshop is $50.
ArtPlay is part of the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Center for the Arts. For more information, call 205-975-4769 or visit ArtPlay’s website.
The “Whimsical Wednesdays” workshops will include:
June 10, “The Art of Stationery: A Regency Collage Atelier”
In this delightful workshop, participants will craft their own bespoke correspondence papers using an array of fine scraps, patterned clippings and curated ephemera. Fiber artist Rachel Brockwell will guide the group to design stationery worthy of any society invitation. Participants will leave with a fully personalized set, and the confidence to continue creative collage pursuits long after the session ends. 6-8 p.m. Register.
June 17, “A Royal Affair: Delectable Designs in Icing”
Perfect for beginners, this session led by teaching artist Francesca Scalici will unveil the elegant fundamentals of decorating with royal icing. With cookies and icing provided, participants can learn to craft charming, personalized designs fit for any Regency fête. Bring an apron and prepare to astonish friends with new confectionery skill. 6-8 p.m. Register.
June 24, “The Elegant Hand: An Introduction to Calligraphy”
In this beginner-friendly workshop, participants will learn the foundational strokes and techniques that form the basis of elegant script, using brush pens with flexible tips. Led by calligrapher and engraver Carrie Towns, users will explore the graceful contrast between fine upstrokes and fuller downstrokes and, through guided practice, begin to develop rhythm, control and confidence. By session’s end, artists will leave with beautifully practiced letterforms and foundational skills. 6-8 p.m. Register.
July 8, “Stitches of the Season: Needlework for the Modern Aristocrat”
Needlepoint has long been celebrated as a pastime of refinement and calm. In this introductory workshop led by fiber artist Rachel Brockwell, participants can learn two essential stitches and all the practical skills needed to choose a canvas, read a pattern and begin a project of their own. Discover why this timeless craft enchanted the Regency elite and why it remains beloved today. 6-8 p.m. Register.
July 15, “A Summer Promenade in Watercolor: Postcards of the Countryside”
Step into the soft romance of a languid afternoon, where the charm of Victorian landscapes meets the sweeping elegance of the “Bridgerton” era. In this class for beginners led by arts educator and artist Heather Hyatt, participants will explore foundational watercolor techniques including washes, blending, layering and simple detail work while creating atmospheric mini landscapes. Guided by a palette reminiscent of the 19th century, artists can craft a postcard or keepsake painting that evokes pastoral trails, sunlit fields and graceful skies. 6-8 p.m. Register.