St. Charles Parish residents are filling the seats of the newest venture held by the parish’s Department of Parks & Recreation – art classes for both children and adults.
Anedra Coleman serves as assistant director of the parks and recreation department and coordinator at Luling’s Edward A. Dufresne Community Center, where the classes have been held.
“I was brainstorming on what activities we can offer to children that would be fun, but could also be done in accordance to CDC guidelines and the art workshops seem to be a good fit,” she said. “We were very limited on what activities we can offer due to the phase we were in and restrictions due to COVID-19.”
The first child’s art class was held in August, and October kicks off adult classes.
“The classes are something new the St. Charles Parish Parks and Recreation Department decided to host, however hopefully we can continue hosting on a monthly basis,” Coleman said. “This is a new activity so we’re still working to get the word out however, the participants are really enjoying themselves and are doing a great job … it’s been quite fun.”
All of the children’s workshops are free. The adult workshops are $25, a price tag that includes everything needed to paint a canvas as well catered hord’ourves.
St. Charles Parish President Matthew Jewell said one of the goals within the recreation master plan is to host more activities geared toward adult residents.
“The response we have had to this event is encouraging and we hope to provide additional activities for our adult residents in the future,” he said.
Coleman said the parish is grateful for volunteers, including some from Valero, who have worked to make sure the events go smoothly.
“Our instructor, Karin Douroux, is awesome as well,” Coleman added. “She’s very talented and patient.”
Taryn Rogers, manager of community relations and governmental affairs at Valero, said she recently volunteered at an art class in which her son was a participant.
“I was so impressed with how organized and prepared Anedra Coleman was in addition to Mr. and Mrs. Douroux, the art instructors,” Rogers said. “We will definitely be attending the next class.”
Coleman said the new class offerings came at the perfect time.
“We have had some challenges this year due to COVID-19, however activities like this helps to not only enhance community enrichment but also promotes the arts among students and adults of all ages and diversity,” Coleman said. “We work hard to try and implement ways to enrich the lives of our citizens as well as strengthen our community and the arts is a great way to do so.”
For more information about art workshops or to sign up, visit www.scpparksandrec.com.
Be the first to comment