13 Jan Olive’s Porch – Community Work Shop Days
In celebration of our 100th year we’re introducing new programming! Join us for creativity and connection during our Community Workshop Days! These events provide access to specialized studios and equipment for local crafters and curious creatives alike. To ensure accessibility, we’ve implemented a sliding fee scale, making this opportunity available to everyone in our local community.
Participants can enjoy a 6-hour studio experience to explore their craft, learn new techniques, or simply connect with others who share their passion. We’ll enjoy a delicious wood-fired pizza lunch, to celebrate our time together.
Class Offerings
A Speed Date with Color:
In this one-day class we will paint all day with high-quality acrylic paint and paper as we explore three qualities of colors – their hue, brightness, and value (dark/light). A highlight will be defining and refining your own favorite colors. Expect to have a lot of fun in this no-failure class.
Colorful Glass on Copper:
Get an introduction to what enameling is in this fast paced class. Many techniques can be tried in a day, to add vibrant colored glass to copper shapes. You will fire these in a 1500 degree kiln for about two minutes per firing, layering and adding color each time. Pieces will range from one to two inches in size, and can be made into jewelry, magnets, box tops, and so many possibilities.
Learn to Turn a Honey Dipper and French Rolling Pin:
Learn to use the wood lathe and woodturning tools to create a honey dipper. Then, using your newly acquired skills, move on to turn a French Rolling Pin, all in one day!
Make Your Own Boomerang:
Learn the art and science of boomerang making! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, you’ll learn to blend creativity and technical skills to create a functional and beautiful boomerang. When you boomerang is finished, practice throwing and catching it with instructions from an expert! All levels welcome.
Old Time Harmonica:
Learn and apply vintage techniques recorded by the harmonica masters of the 1920s and 30s. Set a strong foundation for approaching fiddle tunes on the harmonica as we methodically master lip pursing, tongue blocking, and simple and syncopated rhythms. Beginning through intermediate players welcome.
Introducing a Sliding Fee Scale:
We’re trying out something new! There are three different fees for each workshop. Pick the price that best fits your budget. Standard Rate, Sponsorship Rate, or Scholarship Rate.
- Standard Rate ($200): Participate at regular price.
- Sponsorship Rate ($300): Give the gift of craft and help cover the cost for someone else to be in class.
- Scholarship Rate ($100): Select this rate if you are unable to attend at the standard tuition rate. This tuition is half of the standard rate and is supported by our sponsorship rate registrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this event priced with a sliding scale and priced above traditional Olive’s Porch programming?
We have heard from our community that they would love to learn a craft that we don’t have the facilities or equipment for at Olive’s Porch or that they would love to be on campus and are unable to attend a full weekend class. The sliding fee scale is also built for accessibility.
What ages are welcome to participate?
Those aged 18 & up are welcome to participate in Community Workshop Days.
Where do I park?
The gravel lot outside of the Keith House loop on campus.
Where do I check in on the day of the event?
After parking in the gravel lot outside of the Keith House proceed to the red tent with the Olive’s Porch Logo to check in. From there you will head to your assigned studio and can move to park closer to the studio.
How do Materials fees work?
Materials fees are a separate charge, specific to each workshop or studio. They will be paid upon check-in on the day of the event. Cash, Check, or Card will be accepted as forms of payment. Material’s Fees are listed in the workshop description.
What’s for lunch?
Our wonderful Chef Terra Ciotta and the Dining Hall staff will be cooking a wood-fired pizza lunch. Held at the pavilion next to Davidson Hall and across from the Craft Shop parking lot. A selection of toppings will be available, and you can pick what you’d prefer. There will also be gluten-free crusts available. Just bring your appetite.
Lunch is at 12:15 p.m. located next to Davidson Hall around the wood-fired pizza oven. Lunch is covered in the price of your tuition.
About Olive's Porch
Olive’s Porch is an extension of the Folk School in downtown Murphy. The location at 27 Peachtree Street features classroom space, a retail shop showcasing the work of Appalachian artists and providing high quality art supplies. Named after the Folk School’s co-founder Olive Dame Campbell, Olive’s Porch offers Community Workshops focused on traditional Appalachian crafts, music, dance, and community events and demonstrations designed for locals and visitors.
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