Pottery is one of several art forms which will be taught to seniors through the Art Is Life/Life Is Art program at the Parkersburg Art Center. (Photo Provided)

PARKERSBURG — A special arts program is returning to the Parkersburg Art Center, inviting adults age 55 and up to come together for art making, connection, and fun.

The program, called Art Is Life/Life Is Art, is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts and the West Virginia Department of Tourism.

The series offers a non-threatening environment where participants can stretch their artistic muscles, whether they are picking up a paintbrush for the first time or returning as a seasoned art-maker. Past participants are welcome to sign up again, as each year brings new creative adventures and fresh projects, according to a press release announcing the program.

Throughout the program, participants will explore a wide range of art forms, including printmaking, pottery, painting, drawing, upcycling, 3D design and more. Some materials will be provided to take home, encouraging continued creativity beyond the classroom and into everyday life.

Some of the core goals of Art Is Life/Life Is Art are to build community through the shared experience of learning, experimenting, and laughing together in a creative environment.

Pottery is one of several art forms which will be taught to seniors through the Art Is Life/Life Is Art program at the Parkersburg Art Center. (Photo Provided)

Classes are offered in two separate six-week sessions, allowing participants to choose the schedule that works best for them. Each session includes 12 two-hour classes held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Tuesdays focus on introducing new projects and techniques, while Thursdays are dedicated workdays for developing ideas and skills. A full schedule will be shared during the first class meeting.

The program will conclude with a gallery exhibition featuring artwork from both sessions. The show will open at the Parkersburg Art Center on June 5, giving participants the opportunity to see their work professionally displayed and to celebrate their accomplishments with friends, family and the community.

Session 1 runs Feb. 17 through March 26, and Session 2 runs April 7 through May 14. The cost is $35 per session, made possible through grant support, and registration is now open. Space is limited and filled on a first-come, first-to-the-fun basis. Register online by going to the PAC website https://www.parkersburgartcenter.org and clicking on the “classes” tab or by stopping at the Reception Desk at the PAC during regular hours.

There is plenty of off-street parking in the PAC lots along Eighth Street between Market and Juliana and the classroom space is fully accessible.

To find out more about this and other programs offered at the PAC follow them on Facebook or Instagram and be sure to check the website regularly for new class, exhibit and event information.