Join us for a Herbal Talk

Forgotten Harvest: The Edible & Medicinal Plants We Call Weeds

Derek Bergman’s relationship with horticulture began as a little boy, gardening alongside his grandfather, and grew into a lifetime of hands-on learning from plants, landscapes, and the people who care for them.

Shortly after high school, Derek worked with Essex Agricultural School graduate and horticulturist Brian Currier of Currier Landscaping, learning traditional techniques, arbor care, plant care, and old-time hand-tool practices. He later worked with the Danvers Historical Society at Glen Magna Farms before continuing his horticultural education across the country—studying permaculture and sustainable living at Lost Valley Educational Center in Oregon, and then experiencing desert ecology, fruit tree grafting and care in a desert food forest, permaculture, and intentional living at Wind Spirit Community in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona.

Back in Massachusetts, Derek continued his hands-on education working with Scott Thomson, son of longtime PBS Victory Garden host Bob Thomson, and with ecological landscaper and permaculture specialist Lillabeth Weiss of Landscapes by Lillabeth, including helping to establish hardscapes, hügelkultur, and planting  thousands of plants at iFarm in Boxford to create its permaculture gardens and forest. For much of the past 25 years, he has also worked alongside John Archer, caring for and developing the gardens, trees, and landscape of his North Shore property.

Throughout these experiences, Derek has maintained a particular interest in native, wild edible, and medicinal plants and the traditional knowledge surrounding their uses.

In Forgotten Harvest, we will explore native plants as well as useful plants brought to New England from Europe—plants once valued for food, medicine, and everyday life whose traditional uses have largely faded from common knowledge. Many still grow abundantly around our homes, gardens, fields, and roadsides today.

Slavic Doll Making Workshop: Creating a Bell Doll for Clearing & Joy
Throughout the world, many cultures have traditions that help people release emotional burdens, restore inner balance, and invite greater joy into their lives. In ancient Slavic culture, women crafted special dolls not only as toys for children but also as symbols of love, protection, celebration, and hope. These dolls were believed to carry intentions for harmony, support families through life's transitions, and create a peaceful atmosphere in the home.
Discover the beauty and wisdom of an ancient Slavic folk tradition in this hands-on workshop where creativity meets mindful intention.Together, we will create a traditional Bell Doll (Motanka), a no-sew Slavic talisman made with fabric, thread, and a small bell. In Slavic folklore, the gentle sound of the bell symbolizes clearing stagnant energy, welcoming good news, and reminding us to return to our true nature of joy, and ease.
No previous crafting experience is necessary. 
Perfect for beginners, crafters, and anyone seeking a creative, uplifting experience rooted in tradition.

If you're looking for a creative way to uplift your spirit, celebrate yourself or spend meaningful time with your child, join us for this unique hands-on workshop.

Materials

All workshop materials are included (except scissors).

Items to Bring

• Sharp fabric scissors
• Feel free to bring your own fabric(cotton or linen) or a meaningful old garment (a dress, skirt, or pair of pants) with your favorite colors and patterns. We'll use them to create a unique doll that reflects your personal style and intention. 

Who Can Attend?

Adults and children ages 10 and up are welcome.

Children should be able to work independently and create their own doll with adult supervision.

Date & Time:
Saturday, November 7th @2-5pm

Individual Adult: $55

Individual Child (Ages 10+) (able to work independently without supervision): $35

Family Pair:

Adult + Child (Create 1 Shared Doll Together): $60

Family Pair: Adult + Child (Create 2 Dolls-one per person):  $75

Please Note: Children must be at least 10 years old and able to work independently throughout the workshop. If you and your child choose the shared doll option, you will work together to create one Bell Doll.

Screen Printing Class

Perfect for, 1 color, band merch

or start-up business gear!

Wednesdays 6:00pm – 9:00pm

September 30th - October 14th and then will resume October 28th - November 11th. 

(Due to the annual DAA Haunted House)

Cost:

$225 Member

$250 Non-Member

All Materials Included,

except T-Shirts and fabrics.

Class will focus on using hand cut stencils and photo emulsion process to transfer images on to paper or garments using screen printing technique.

 Personal materials can be brought in and may be suggested but that will be discussed during the course. Class will be using our creativity to see beyond the images or images we create to transfer ideas into stencil form. 

meleroadam@ymail.com

Painting and Drawing Studio  

When: Tuesdays, 6:00-9:00 pm

Cost: $230

September 15-November 24, 2026 

Where: Danvers Art Association, 105 Elliott Street, Danvers, MA 

Instructor: Deborah Stanton, BFA, MFA 

For questions: call Deborah Stanton, 978-626-8434 or email deborah@stanton.newl.com 

This Studio course is designed for both beginners and experienced artists who desire to produce art in two-dimensional drawing or painting media, with instruction given individually according to the participant’s needs. The course offers an introduction to the basics of painting and drawing for beginners, and it provides a chance for more experienced artists to work within a group setting, with individualized instructor feedback to help problem-solve. Discussions of light, form, color theory, and composition will be included, according to need. This studio time offers enrichment through exposure to the varied approaches of the individual participants; we learn from each other. For planning purposes, beginners should contact the instructor before the first session. 30 Hours, total Cost: $230 fee for ten 3-hour studio sessions FOR MORE INFORMATION, click here. We will not meet on October 20, 2026.

 Paige Covello - Creating Crepe Paper Sculptural Flowers                              November 7, 2026                                     10:30AM at the DAA 

Free, all welcome! 

Paige Covello is the founder of Create Space, a Danvers, Massachusetts-based company that provides art instruction and creative experiences to students of all ages, from pre-school through adult. Paige taught elementary school art in Salem, MA for twenty-seven years. She developed the district-wide Art Can Make a Difference program, a bi-annual themed art show at the Peabody Essex Museum that benefitted the Salem Food Pantry.  She began her teaching career in Vero Beach, Florida and has been recognized for her excellence in teaching and her service to the community. Paige is married with three children, and enjoys boating, skiing, traveling, cooking, and spending time with her two dogs, Bear and Lola.  She earned an undergraduate degree in Art & Art History from Colgate University and a Master’s Degree from Dowling College. 

Watercolor Essentials

Instructor: Martha Chapman

Cost: $220

Drop in fee: $35

Thursdays

September  3, 17

October 1, 15, and 29, 

November 12

 December 3 and 17.
Thursdays, 6:00-8:30 pm 

Watercolor Essentials: Learn the Foundations of Painting with Confidence

Discover the beauty and fluidity of watercolor in this welcoming, hands-on class. Whether you’ve never picked up a brush or want to strengthen your foundation, this course will guide you step by step through the essentials.

Students will explore core techniques such as color mixing, brush control, washes, layering, and creating texture. You’ll learn how to work with water (the most important ingredient!), understand light and composition, and build confidence in your own creative style.

Each session includes demonstrations, guided exercises, and time to create your own paintings in a supportive studio environment. Along the way, you’ll receive personalized feedback and encouragement to help you grow at your own pace.

By the end of the class, you’ll have a collection of finished pieces and the skills to continue your watercolor journey with confidence.

All levels welcome.

Bring your own materials (supply list will be provided by level).
For payment information please email:

mpchapman02@gmail.com

Art for Relaxation and Mindfulness 

Instructor:  Paige Covello 

✨ Art for Relaxation & Mindfulness ✨

Join us Wednesdays for a creative escape designed to calm the mind and inspire creativity. Each week, explore a new mindful art practice:  

Upcoming Classes:   

Every Wednesday! 

7:00 -8:30 pm

Adults 18+

Sign up for a  series or Drop in! 

Art for Relaxation and Mindfulness (age 18+) is perfect for anyone looking to explore and connect with their creative side.  Participants will practice a variety of research based stress reducing techniques to create art pieces and discover the power of creation for stress management!  No previous experience needed, all levels are welcome.  All materials will be provided and topics will be geared to participants' needs and interests. Each session participants will leave with art pieces as well as resources and information for optional further learning. 

Class Pass Options

Make creativity part of your routine with our flexible class passes. Whether you’re dropping in or joining us regularly, we have options designed to fit your schedule.

Members

3 Class Pass
$120 (just $40 per class — save $15)

6 Class Pass – Best Value
$210 (just $35 per class — save $60)

Non-Members

3 Class Pass
$130 (save $5)

6 Class Pass – Best Value
$225 (just $37.50 per class — save $45)

Drop-In Option

$45 per class

*classes are transferable
(bring a friend or 2) no expiration.

Irish Set Dance Class

Adult Dance Group

When: Thursdays 7:30-10:30 pm 

Year-Round

Drop in! 

eileen_ken_dugal@yahoo.com 

Irish dancing is traditional Gaelic or Celtic dance forms that originated in Ireland. It can be performed as a solo or in groups of up to twenty or more trained dancers. In Ireland, Irish dance is part of social dancing or may be for formal performances and competitions.

It is performed traditionally with intricate footwork and is most known for the dancers performing with a stiff upper body. Unlike other dance forms, Irish dancers do not move their arms or hands so that footwork is accented.

Sarah Milton

Abstract Painting

 January 9, 2027 10:30AM at the DAA 

Sarah Milton is the Executive Director of the North Shore Arts Association in Gloucester and is an abstract oil painter focused on creating vibrant mixed media paintings on paper and canvas. She holds degrees from Montserrat College of Art and Harvard University. In her words: “My love of art was born in New England, where I grew up. I live and maintain a studio in Rockport, MA and work at North Shore Arts Association in Gloucester. Unsuccessful prints, drawings, and paintings are the foundation for creating new art. The transition from old to new is expressed with tearing, cutting, and folding techniques. The process of paper manipulation alone is not enough, and new media is introduced allowing for various textures, edges, and shapes to enter the picture.

You can view more of Sarah's work on her website at www.sarahLLmilton.com or reach out to her directly by email at sarahmilton@nsarts.org .

WOODCARVING PROJECTS 

Adults welcome of any 

skill level: 

Beginner to Intermediate (no prior woodworking experience required)

Instructor: Jeff Surette

Monday Afternoons

3:00-5:00 pm

3-4pm Instructional Time

4-5pm Studio Time

September 14, 21, 28

October 5, 12, 26

(no class 10/19)

Cost: 

$180 Member 

$190 Non-Member

Description: 

Discover the art of bringing wood to life in our Woodcarving Relief. This hands-on program introduces artists to the rewarding world of three-dimensional wood sculpture. Participants will learn to transform flat pieces of wood into detailed, textured imagery using traditional hand tools, power dremels and wood burning tools. Wood finishes can be accomplished in stains, watercolors, and acrylic paints.