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Upcoming events

    • 5 Jan 2025
    • 20 Dec 2026
    • 57 sessions
    • Dance Studio, Artwaves
    Register

    Downeast Community Dance 

    Select Sundays 10:00am - 11:30am, Dance Studio

    Join us for the Downcast Community Dance, a recurring gathering designed to bring movement, music, and connection to Bar Harbor. Hosted at ArtWaves, this inclusive event welcomes dancers of all levels to come together and share in the joy of creative expression.

    The dance takes place on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays of the month, offering a rhythm to your week and a space for both beginners and seasoned dancers to feel at home.

    $10 suggested donation.

    For questions or more information, please contact susan.sassaman@pronton.me

    • 5 Jan 2026
    • 28 Dec 2026
    • 50 sessions
    • Kaleidoscope Studio, ArtWaves
    Register

    Which Stitch?

    Mondays from 9 AM - 12 PM in the Kaleidoscope studio.

    Which Stitch? is a community group where participants bring their current fiber and needle projects to work and converse with each other. Participants are welcome to use ArtWaves' supply of materials to knit, crochet, sew, mend, embroider, weave, felt, cross stitch, and so much more! Beginning instruction can be provided and the occasional special guest will introduce new techniques and demo their work. 

    This ongoing group maintains an email list for people interested in receiving regular updates and information. If you would like to be included, please email office@artwavesmdi.org.

    Which Stitch? is a drop-in group, no registration is required. It is free for ArtWaves Members and a $5 suggested donation for non-members

    • 5 Jan 2026
    • 28 Dec 2026
    • 52 sessions
    • Movement Studio
    Join Karate classes on Mondays from 6:00 to 8:00 with head instructor Mike McEnroe. For more information call Mike at 207-266-7030.
    • 22 Mar 2026
    • 27 Dec 2026
    • 41 sessions
    Register

    Think of this as an art supply store/studio where the equipment and materials on the shelves are yours to use. Our monitored open studio time is a functional space to spread out, connect, and create. We offer the tools for mosaic, blockprinting, geliprinting, felting, weaving, woodburning, mixed media, batik, painting, drawing, fiber art, and fairy house construction. 

    The open layout creates a collaborative environment where members work side-by-side, sharing practical techniques and encouragement. Help yourself to complimentary tea while you work. There is no instruction, the studio monitor can assist in locating what you need.

    "If you have the smarts, we have the parts."

    Our inventory of tools and materials has been built through years of workshops, volunteer labor, and generous community donations.

       Families with children are welcome - with adult supervision.

    This program is a core member benefit, ensuring that the practice of art-making remains accessible beyond a class or workshop. 


    As a community-funded center, we continue to accept donations of quality art supplies, tools, and materials. We exist because of your support.


    • 20 Apr 2026
    • 28 Dec 2026
    • 38 sessions
    • Dance Studio

    Zumba! With the YMCA


    In collaboration with the MDI YMCA, we are excited to offer a new Zumba class!

    Zumba is a mix of low-intensity and high-intensity moves for an interval-style, calorie burning dance fitness party!  Come ready to sweat, and prepare to leave empowered and feeling strong!

    Register through the MDI YMCA at https://www.mdiymca.org/

    Or call 207-288-3511 for more information.

    • 11 Jun 2026
    • 30 Dec 2026
    • 30 sessions
    • Fine Arts Studio
    • 3
    Register

    Improv!


    Improv: Collaborative Comedy is a weekly meetup for anyone interested in improvisational comedy, storytelling, and creative play in a welcoming, low-pressure environment.

    Through games, scenes, and group exercises, we will collaborate as an ensemble, connect with friendly community members, and create spontaneous stories together — with laughter along the way!

    No experience necessary — just curiosity and a willingness to jump in and have fun!

    Wednesdays, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
    Fine Arts Studio at ArtWaves Community Arts Center

    Free for ArtWaves members — Become a member today!

    Sliding scale $5–20 for non-members.


    • 24 Jun 2026
    • 30 Dec 2026
    • 29 sessions
    • ArtWaves Dance Studio

    Yoga

    Join us for an all-levels yoga class designed to cultivate strength, flexibility, balance, and relaxation. Through mindful movement, breathwork, and gentle stretching, participants will have the opportunity to connect with their bodies, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Whether you are new to yoga or have an established practice, this welcoming class offers modifications and variations to meet you where you are.

    This class is offered through a partnership between the MDI YMCA and ArtWaves Community Arts Center. Registration is managed through the MDI YMCA. Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for movement.

    https://www.mdiymca.org/

    • 6 Oct 2026
    • 10 Nov 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • ArtWaves, Dance Studio

    Barre with Aquene Diedricksen

    Classes run 5:30-6:30 PM and are a $20 drop in or $110 for the whole six week series.

    The fall is a great opportunity to shift and dedicate ourselves to some routine, conscious community, and soft self care practices.  Starting  Tuesday, October 6th, I will be teaching Barre at the dance studio at Art Waves in Town Hill — this will be a six week series before I head down to West Palm Beach for my restorative yoga teacher training!

    FAQ


    How do I sign up?
    Pre registration is not required! Show up, pay via cash/check/Venmo, or credit card (3.5% processing fee ) and enjoy your class! Simple.  If you’d like to commit and pre-pay, you can send your payment to my Venmo @aquene-diedricksen

    What do I bring?
    I recommend bringing your own yoga mat and wearing socks (barre-Pilates socks are great — the ones with the grippies ).  Wrist and ankle weights such as Bala Bands are optional, but a great way to enhance your strength! 

    What if I’m new to barre?
    Barre is a beginner friendly workout for all levels! Come as you are and alert me of any injuries or concerns prior to class 

    Is this a dance class?
    No, but it involves a lot of exercises that professional dancers have used for centuries to strengthen and support their bodies! We will address muscle endurance, poise, balance, breath, and body awareness in a safe, inclusive, positive environment.

    If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out via email or text 225-933-9065

    • 3 Nov 2026
    • 22 Dec 2026
    • 8 sessions
    • Artwaves Dance Studio

    Healthy Acadia Community Tai Chi

         

    In collaboration with ArtWaves, Healthy Acadia is offering a series of Tai Chi courses to improve their health and well-being through slow, smooth, and continuous mind-body exercises. 

    These gentle movements can help:

    • Alleviate pain
    • Reduce stress
    • Increase strength, flexibility, and balance
    • Improve cognitive function and coordination

    Loose, comfortable clothing and thin-soled indoor shoes are recommended for Tai Chi practice. 

    Pre-registration is required *see link*, though courses are free of charge. Donations always accepted.

    Register online at https://forms.gle/NecZZGVD92hga6px8.

    For more information contact Nina Zeldin at nina@healthyacadia.org or 207-664-1630.

    • 5 Nov 2026
    • 26 Nov 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • ArtWaves, Fine Arts Studio
    • 20
    Register

    Weekly Figure Drawing

    Thursdays, 12 - 3 PM in the Fine Arts Studio 

    This open figure drawing sessions features a live nude model performing a series of 20 minute poses with no instruction. Easels, charcoal, and basic supplies are provided.

    These sessions are intended for ages 18 and over, although artists under 18 are allowed with parental attendance! Drop-ins are welcome.

    Pricing per session is $20.

    Members can register at a discounted rate of $35 for the entire month.


    Interested in modeling? email office@artwavesmdi.org

    • 13 Nov 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Dance Studio
    • 24
    Register


    This session of Aware & Prepared is a two-hour, hands-on self-defense workshop designed specifically for real estate professionals. ​

    Training will cover situational awareness, recognizing potential threats, setting and maintaining boundaries, and practical physical self-defense. Participants will practice striking, defensive techniques, and other fundamental skills for responding effectively when personal safety is threatened.

    No previous self-defense or martial arts experience is necessary.

    You can expect:

    • Clear, step-by-step instruction
    • Partner drills in a controlled environment

    • Practical skills that rely on instinct

    • Opportunities to practice threat evaluation and response under pressure

    What to Bring / Wear:

    • Clean indoor/gym shoes

    • Water bottle

    • Hair ties (if applicable)

    • Any personal medical supports you may need (brace, inhaler, etc.)

    You do not need any prior training or specialized equipment–just come ready to learn!


    About your instructor:

    Raz Chen is an internationally respected Krav Maga expert and tactical self-defense strategist with over 20 years of elite training and instruction. Read his full professional bio at aviir.net

    This workshop is brought to you in partnership with Healthy Acadia!


    • 14 Nov 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    • Dance Studio
    • 25
    Register

    Aware & Prepared: Practical Self-Defense (Session I)

    Students can register for Session I, Session II, or both. Different material will be covered in each session.

    This workshop is designed for varied levels of experience and fitness. Whether you are highly active or new to physical training, you will be able to participate in a meaningful way.

    We will begin with a brief, interactive discussion on awareness, prevention, and decision-making under pressure, then transition into hands-on training focused on instinctive, effective techniques grounded in Krav Maga principles.

    You can expect:

    • A mix of discussion and movement

    • Clear, step-by-step instruction

    • Partner drills in a controlled environment

    • Practical skills that rely on instinct

    • Opportunities to practice threat evaluation and response under pressure

    What to Bring / Wear:

    • Clean indoor/gym shoes

    • Water bottle

    • Hair ties (if applicable)

    • Any personal medical supports you may need (brace, inhaler, etc.)

    You do not need any prior training or specialized equipment–just come ready to learn!

    Ages 13+ welcome. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a a parent/guardian. All participants will be required to sign a liability waiver.


    About your instructor:

    Raz Chen is an internationally respected instructor and tactical self-defense strategist with over 20 years of elite training and instruction. Read his full professional bio at http://www.aviir.net

    This workshop is brought to you in partnership with Healthy Acadia!

    • 14 Nov 2026
    • 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Dance Studio
    • 30
    Register

    Aware & Prepared: Practical Self-Defense (Session II)

    This workshop is designed for varied levels of experience and fitness. Whether you are highly active or new to physical training, you will be able to participate in a meaningful way.

    We will begin with a brief, interactive discussion on awareness, prevention, and decision-making under pressure, then transition into hands-on training focused on instinctive, effective techniques grounded in Krav Maga principles.

    Students can register for Session I, Session II, or both. Different material will be covered in each session.


    You can expect:

    • A mix of discussion and movement

    • Clear, step-by-step instruction

    • Partner drills in a controlled environment

    • Practical skills that rely on instinct

    • Opportunities to practice threat evaluation and response under pressure

    What to Bring / Wear:

    • Clean indoor/gym shoes

    • Water bottle

    • Hair ties (if applicable)

    • Any personal medical supports you may need (brace, inhaler, etc.)

    You do not need any prior training or specialized equipment–just come ready to learn!

    Ages 13+ welcome. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a a parent/guardian. All participants will be required to sign a liability waiver. 


    About your instructor:

    Raz Chen is an internationally respected expert instructor and tactical self-defense strategist with over 20 years of elite training and instruction. Read his full professional bio at http://aviir.net

    This workshop is brought to you in partnership with Healthy Acadia!

    • 21 Nov 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • ArtWaves Kaleidoscope Studio
    • 10
    Register

    Felted Rugs Workshop

    In this hands-on workshop we will make a small 18"x 24" wet felted rug, tapestry, or a cushion using one of the world’s oldest textiles - sheep's wool. 

    We will begin by teasing raw, recently sheared, lovely  fleeces and begin laying out the design with the dyed fleece. So many colors and possibilities, oh so much fun.  Then we will complete the lay out and start felting with soap, agitation and hot water. 

    Finally we will full (firm the felt) with vigorous rolling and embellish with stitches and or needlefelting as desired. 

    This could be a good project to do with a friend! Nothing like creating something cozy, and sturdy. All materials, aprons and gear included, with step by step instructions. I look forward to felting with you! 

     

    The instructor Liz Cutler

    "my paintings are inspired by a spark, something that wows me or quietly invites me to linger. I love capturing what transports me to being right there, to share and return to spectacular moments."

    Liz is a founder (2013) of ArtWaves, where she continues her practice through figure drawing, teaching, workshops, conversational critiques and working in her personal studio at the Bar Harbor Municipal building. Her artwork is expressed in a variety of media primarily oil painting, including glass, fiber and printmaking. She graduated with a B.A.in Painting from Swain School of Design including a year at Worcester Art Museum School and Boston Museum of Fine Arts and recently a Masters from Heartwood College of Art. Liz is a member of the American Society of Marine Artists​, Fiber Arts Network and Maine Crafts Association. You can see more about Liz and her art at her website: Liz Cutler.com 

    Please see our cancellation policy here:

    https://www.artwavesmdi.org/Policies-and-Procedures


    • 21 Nov 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • 5
    Register

    Glass Jewelry (Pendants & Earrings)

                     

                                            (Images are generic representations)

    Are you interested in making your own glass jewelry? This beginner friendly workshop is the perfect way to learn fused glass. Attendees will construct pendants and earrings in this open-ended fused glass workshop. Come play and experiment with different glass and mounting methods. Perfect for that last minute gift for that special someone.  The instructor will cover the firing process in detail; however, the kiln fires overnight so students will need to come back to pick up their art the next day or at a later time. 

    About  Seth Birch

    Born in rural Northeast Ohio Seth Birch studied at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio and in Germany at Freie Universität Berlin. Since 2024 the artist has lived and worked in Deer Isle, Maine. Participating in residencies and workshops instructing in various mediums along the way. His practice ranges from Sculpture to Functional and from intimate to large scale. Working with many mediums Seth Birch’s eclectic practice is a deep dive into strained relationships, personal and worldly. His most recognizable work is of two figures ripping their heart and mind out behind screens. Exploring the relationship of the reality of emotions to the hidden nature of modern means of sharing lives.

    Please review our cancelation policy here:

    https://www.artwavesmdi.org/Policies-and-Procedures

    • 21 Nov 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
    • Stain Glass Studio
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Holiday Stained Glass "Taster" Class


    Join us in our new Stained Glass studio for a holiday themed stained glass workshop!

    Students choose from a small selection of holiday patterns and glass, then get a hands-on taste of the copper foil process. With plenty of guidance along the way, we’ll move through basic glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing, focusing on the experience rather than mastering each technique.

    Students leave with a small finished piece, a feel for working with glass, and a better sense of whether they’d like to explore stained glass further. 

    Best for: Complete beginners, casual makers, and students who want to try stained glass before taking the full introductory course.  14 ages and up.    No experience required.

    About Patrianna

    Patrianna's approach in offering stained glass workshops is to give students enough instruction to feel successful while gradually encouraging more independence.

    Beginning students receive step-by-step demonstrations and significant hands-on support. Returning students are given more room to make their own glass and design choices, troubleshoot problems, and develop their own working style.

    As students progress, the emphasis shifts from simply completing each step to understanding why something works: why a cut is difficult, why a panel needs reinforcement, why a particular glass changes a composition, or why a pattern needs to be redesigned before fabrication.

    The overall progression is:

    Watch it → Try it → Understand it → Improve it → Troubleshoot it → Design it

    Please see our cancellation policy here:

    https://www.artwavesmdi.org/Policies-and-Procedures

    • 24 Nov 2026
    • 29 Dec 2026
    • 6 sessions
    • ArtWaves Dance Studio

    Barre with Aquene Diedricksen

    Classes run 5:30-6:30 PM and are a $20 drop in or $110 for the whole six week series.

    The previous Barre series has been such a success, we have decided to extend into the winter for another 6 week series.  This is a continued opportunity to shift and dedicate ourselves to some routine, conscious community, and soft self care practices.  

    FAQ


    How do I sign up?
    Pre registration is not required! Show up, pay via cash/check/Venmo, or credit card (3.5% processing fee ) and enjoy your class! Simple.  If you’d like to commit and pre-pay, you can send your payment to my Venmo @aquene-diedricksen

    What do I bring?
    I recommend bringing your own yoga mat and wearing socks (barre-Pilates socks are great — the ones with the grippies ).  Wrist and ankle weights such as Bala Bands are optional, but a great way to enhance your strength! 

    What if I’m new to barre?
    Barre is a beginner friendly workout for all levels! Come as you are and alert me of any injuries or concerns prior to class 

    Is this a dance class?
    No, but it involves a lot of exercises that professional dancers have used for centuries to strengthen and support their bodies! We will address muscle endurance, poise, balance, breath, and body awareness in a safe, inclusive, positive environment.

    If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out via email or text 225-933-9065


    • 1 Dec 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • 5
    Register

    Holiday Themed Botanical Printmaking


    You’ll explore the magic of botanical monoprinting using preserved leaves and flowers on gelatin plates. Learn simple inking and texturing techniques as you print onto a variety of beautiful papers and fabrics. Create one-of-a-kind cards for heartfelt notes, matted prints ready for framing, or a unique fabric wall hanging.

    Working step by step, you’ll discover multiple approaches to monoprinting using Akua inks and acrylics—perfect for beginners and experienced creatives alike. No prior experience needed, and all materials are provided.

    Come solo or make it an art date with friends, family, or colleagues—it’s creative, social, and a tad addictive.


                 




    Please see our cancelation policy here

    https://www.artwavesmdi.org/Policies-and-Procedures 



    • 5 Dec 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • The Bay School in Blue Hill


    ArtWaves is offering stained glass mosaic as a community craft at the Bay School Winter Faire!

    Please join us in holiday cheer through art and create something special to sparkle in your windows all year long!

    No pre-registration required.

    More information about the faire available HERE!

    • 12 Dec 2026
    • 19 Dec 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Stain Glass Studio
    • 4
    Register

    Intermediate Stained Glass Panels with Patrianna Anderson

        

    An in-depth introduction to stained glass panel construction.

    Students work on a larger, more involved panel over two sessions. The additional time allows us to focus more closely on precision and structure. Students learn about borders, hinge joints and weak points, using layout blocks or jigs, maintaining square dimensions, fitting across a larger composition, soldering longer seams, reinforcement, framing, patina and professional finishing.

    For this workshop students begin evaluating their own work: deciding when a piece needs additional grinding, when it should be recut, and how small fitting problems can affect the rest of a panel.

    Possible projects might include botanicals, landscapes, geometric compositions, architectural designs, or Maine-inspired imagery.

    Best for: Students who have a solid understanding of the copper foil process and want to develop panel-building skills.

    Prerequisite: Previous copper foil experience.

    About Patrianna

    Patrianna's approach in offering stained glass workshops is to give students enough instruction to feel successful while gradually encouraging more independence.

    Beginning students receive step-by-step demonstrations and significant hands-on support. Returning students are given more room to make their own glass and design choices, troubleshoot problems, and develop their own working style.

    As students progress, the emphasis shifts from simply completing each step to understanding why something works: why a cut is difficult, why a panel needs reinforcement, why a particular glass changes a composition, or why a pattern needs to be redesigned before fabrication.

    The overall progression is:

    Watch it → Try it → Understand it → Improve it → Troubleshoot it → Design it

    Please see our cancellation policy here:

    https://www.artwavesmdi.org/Policies-and-Procedures

    • 13 Dec 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Stain Glass Studio
    • 6
    Register

    Holiday Stained Glass "Taster" Class


    Join us in our new Stained Glass studio for a holiday themed stained glass workshop!

    Students choose from a small selection of holiday patterns and glass, then get a hands-on taste of the copper foil process. With plenty of guidance along the way, we’ll move through basic glass cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing, focusing on the experience rather than mastering each technique.

    Students leave with a small finished piece, a feel for working with glass, and a better sense of whether they’d like to explore stained glass further. 

    Best for: Complete beginners, casual makers, and students who want to try stained glass before taking the full introductory course.  14 ages and up.    No experience required.

    About Patrianna

    Patrianna's approach in offering stained glass workshops is to give students enough instruction to feel successful while gradually encouraging more independence.

    Beginning students receive step-by-step demonstrations and significant hands-on support. Returning students are given more room to make their own glass and design choices, troubleshoot problems, and develop their own working style.

    As students progress, the emphasis shifts from simply completing each step to understanding why something works: why a cut is difficult, why a panel needs reinforcement, why a particular glass changes a composition, or why a pattern needs to be redesigned before fabrication.

    The overall progression is:

    Watch it → Try it → Understand it → Improve it → Troubleshoot it → Design it

    Please see our cancellation policy here:

    https://www.artwavesmdi.org/Policies-and-Procedures

    • 19 Dec 2026
    • 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
    • 7
    Register

    Glass Jewelry (Pendants & Earrings)

                     

                                            (Images are generic representations)

    Are you interested in making your own glass jewelry? This beginner friendly workshop is the perfect way to learn fused glass. Attendees will construct pendants and earrings in this open-ended fused glass workshop. Come play and experiment with different glass and mounting methods. Perfect for that last minute gift for that special someone.  The instructor will cover the firing process in detail; however, the kiln fires overnight so students will need to come back to pick up their art the next day or at a later time. 

    About  Seth Birch

    Born in rural Northeast Ohio Seth Birch studied at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio and in Germany at Freie Universität Berlin. Since 2024 the artist has lived and worked in Deer Isle, Maine. Participating in residencies and workshops instructing in various mediums along the way. His practice ranges from Sculpture to Functional and from intimate to large scale. Working with many mediums Seth Birch’s eclectic practice is a deep dive into strained relationships, personal and worldly. His most recognizable work is of two figures ripping their heart and mind out behind screens. Exploring the relationship of the reality of emotions to the hidden nature of modern means of sharing lives.

    Please review our cancelation policy here:

    https://www.artwavesmdi.org/Policies-and-Procedures

    • 4 Jan 2027
    • 27 Mar 2028
    • 13 sessions
    • Kaleidoscope Studio, ArtWaves
    Register

    Which Stitch?

    Mondays from 9 AM - 12 PM in the Kaleidoscope studio.

    Which Stitch? is a community group where participants bring their current fiber and needle projects to work and converse with each other. Participants are welcome to use ArtWaves' supply of materials to knit, crochet, sew, mend, embroider, weave, felt, cross stitch, and so much more! Beginning instruction can be provided and the occasional special guest will introduce new techniques and demo their work. 

    This ongoing group maintains an email list for people interested in receiving regular updates and information. If you would like to be included, please email office@artwavesmdi.org.

    Which Stitch? is a drop-in group, no registration is required. It is free for ArtWaves Members and a $5 suggested donation for non-members


1345-A State Highway 102
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
207-266-0010
office@artwavesmdi.org

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