This winter, The Seattle Public Library and Silver Kite Community Arts have partnered to offering online intergenerational workshops, talks, social hours, and performances for the community. These opportunities provide stimulating and creative engagement opportunities, as well as social connection.

“Older adults are facing unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Nancy Slote. “We are working with community partners to offer virtual programs to help older adults navigate important decisions with physical and mental health, as well as fun programs that help them connect and learn.”

ARTS SCHEDULE

Visit the Library’s calendar at spl.org/fiftyplus to find and register for these upcoming events:

  • 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 4 - Making Indian Sweets. Travel to South India for a sweet taste of traditional Semiya Paysam, a rich noodle pudding that is a favorite on special occasions and can be served either warm or cold. Learn how to make this tasty treat that involves very little prep!
  • 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 6 - Senior Social Hour. Join us for an hour of conversation, play, and connection.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 8 - Writing a Personal Essay. In this workshop, we'll explore personal essay writing, look at a few short and different examples, brainstorm ideas for your own piece, and get started on your own personal essay.
  • 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9 - Introduction to Pastels. During this hands-on workshop, we'll learn how to use pastels to draw a simple still life.
  • 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11 - Mindfulness and Creativity. In this workshop, participants are guided through a series of mindful creative prompts. During the hour, we'll draw, move and write.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13 - Bollywood Dance. Learn dances featured in films from Bollywood in Mumbai - the largest movie-making capital in the world.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 15 - Introduction to Knitting. Beginners are invited to this intergenerational class where you will learn how to cast on, do the knit stitch, and cast off.
  • 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16 - Paper Sculptures. Learn how to turn flat pieces of paper into 3-dimensional shapes. We'll cut, bend, fold, and attach paper to create art from your recycling bin.
  • 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 18 - Dancing New Beginnings. Celebrate a new year and a fresh start with traditional dances from around the world. We'll have a gentle workout using the stability of a chair, with an optional get-on-your-feet section.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20 - Senior Social Hour. Join us for an hour of conversation, play, and connection.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 22 - Introduction to Acting. During this interactive session, learn some of the basic principles of acting using the actor's tools of body, voice, and space. You'll then have a chance to try a few acting exercises.
  • 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23 - Sip and Paint Watercolors. Join us for a step-by-step watercolor painting workshop. Grab a beverage of choice and spend an hour talking and make art together.
  • 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 25 - Writing Poetry. Do you like writing poetry? During this session, try some writing exercises focused on crafting poems reflective of your life experiences.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 27 - Bollywood Dance. Learn dances featured in films from Bollywood in Mumbai - the largest movie-making capital in the world.
  • 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 29 - Sip and Paint Acrylics. Join us for a step-by-step painting workshop. Grab a beverage of your choice and spend an hour with us talking and making art together.
  • 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30 - Visual Journaling. Explore ways to record daily experiences and memories by creating a visual journal in this hands-on workshop. Learn basic drawing and watercolor skills to create a journal.

 

MORE INFORMATION

The Library brings people, information and ideas together to enrich lives and build community. We support universal access to information and ideas, and form strong partnerships with community organizations to offer classes and workshops that are accessible to all.

Visit the Library’s Road to Reopening page for more information about Library services, such as book returns and free printing. Find out how to schedule an appointment for a holds pickup at spl.org/curbside.

The Seattle Public Library also has many free online services, resources and programs available while its physical buildings remain closed. You can find out more here or by contacting the Library by phone at 206-386-4636. Staff are ready to answer questions and direct you to helpful resources and information during this challenging time.