When I was growing up my art teacher (shout out to Sister Madeline!) told us that everyone is an artist just that some of us must work harder than others to discover the medium that reveals our artistic flair. I am still searching for my medium (thinking it may be in writing), but if I were ever wanting to really conduct a thorough search, I think I could do this at the Arbutus Folk School.
Arbutus Folk School (Arbutus) was founded by Stacey Waterman-Hoey, who had a vision to connect and enrich our community through hands-on craft and cultural experiences. This included everything from fun music events to stone-carving classes in Tenino to spinning classes with local sheep farmers (our puppy Rugby Roo would be into that!). According to Hillary Tully the Executive Director for Arbutus, community members learn different crafts in small groups, forming new skills and new connections in the process. “It's amazing to be able to make something yourself out of materials like clay or wood and to bond with others through the learning process. When I walk by a class people are always laughing, “said Tully. “Even though they were all strangers when they first walked through the door.”
Waterman-Hoey created connections with local artists who continue to teach or perform at Arbutus, including local farmers and vendors who provide class materials. “It's an incredible network and creates so many opportunities in the local economy,” said Tully. “Stacey was looking at sustainability, too - finding alternatives to the big-box store, to cheap plastic throwaway stuff. You should see the incredible things people make in our classes - things that will last a lifetime and are so meaningful and personalized. I love it!” There is also an emphasis on our region and the traditions of this area - which continue to thrive and grow. When you weave a basket, it is from plants that grow right here in our backyard.
In addition to classes where participants are learning skills, Arbutus holds events and spaces for performances and practice of those skills. This includes a monthly Acoustic Open Mic Night for musicians of all stripes, Open Studio time for ceramic artists three times a week, and Open Shop time available for woodworkers as well. Arbutus also hosts guest artists throughout the year who share traditional arts from regional Native communities and local ethnic communities. For instance, on August 25 Arbutus will host a performance and workshop with Mariachi Mexico, where you can learn about this tradition through history and today. The event is generously sponsored by Northwest Heritage Resources, so it's free for all to enjoy. Arbutus is also the umbrella organization for the Olympia Old Time Music Festival and for the Olympia Woodworkers Guild. The Oly Old Time Festival happens every President's Day weekend and includes both concerts and workshops. The Olympia Woodworkers Guild holds monthly educational meetings and so much more - woodworkers of all skill levels and specialties are welcome to join.
Arbutus also hosts artists-in-residence who use the space to hone their craft and create new work - currently Elizabeth Mauro (Ceramics), Kelsey Magnuson (Fiber), Irene Weber (Fiber), and Rhea Moon (Wood). These residencies support our local creative community and enrich our school’s community as well. “Our community is so hungry for hands-on, in-person art experiences that connect them with others and with their creativity. We are meeting a need that resides so deeply within each of us -- to express, create, and explore,” said Tully. “We have served more community members than ever since reopening from Covid - over 700 people in 2022 alone, many of them coming back time and again throughout the year. Through partnerships, scholarships, free events & classes, and other new directions, we have been able to bring people through our doors who have never participated before, and we continue seeking new ways to expand our positive impact”.
Tully encourages everyone to take a class. There are classes happening at Arbutus every day. The classes are always changing and are always led by amazing local artists. To find a class just right for you, go to the website - click 'course catalog' and check back often for new dates and new classes. Or if you have already found your artistic niche you may want to offer a class. “We are always looking for new connections with artists who can share a skill with the community,” said Tully. Arbutus is open for tours every Tuesday from 10 am to 1 pm and classes are held anytime from 9 am to 9 pm all week. There are classes in ceramics, woodworking, fiber arts, blacksmithing, and more. Classes are typically offered with a registration fee, but with community donations and support, some classes are offered at a sliding scale or free. This is why donations to Arbutus Folk School are so essential - ensuring that all members of our community can access these experiences. “Most classes are geared toward beginners and are super approachable and fun,” said Tully. You can stay in the loop on upcoming classes & events by subscribing to their monthly newsletter or following Arbutus on Facebook/Instagram. “We usually post our 'new class drop' every Friday on social media”. Finally, I asked Tully what is the one thing that she wanted readers of The JOLT to know about Arbutus. She responded enthusiastically, “That we exist! Many people have never heard of Arbutus Folk School before. It's so fun when we meet someone new who didn't know we were here - you can feel the excitement to dive in. Many people haven't done a creative project in years, and this is such a great way to tap into that side of yourself while meeting new people, too.”
If you know of a nonprofit that is doing something great, celebrating a success, needs some outstanding volunteers, or hosting an event, let me know! This column (aside from a little education) celebrates nonprofits!
Mary Beth Harrington, CVA (Certified Volunteer Administrator) lives in Tumwater. She travels the country speaking at conferences and to individual organizations articulating issues facing nonprofits. Send your ideas to her at MaryBeth@theJOLTnews.com.
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