People interested in exploring their creative side can do just that by signing up for summer classes and workshops at the Octagon Center for the Arts in Ames.

Communications Coordinator for the Center, Carla Murphy, said all ages “two and a half years up through the young at heart” can enroll in courses offered. For students, this may be a nice change of pace to perform and work without the pressures of grades.

The Center offers a variety of classes to appeal to a wide range of interests. Subjects for classes include drawing, painting, making cookies, Spanish Cooking, Scottish Country Club Dance and more.

Adult classes last 6-10 weeks. Children’s classes last 5 weeks which conveniently provides time for summer vacations and other seasonal activities.

“We try to cater to the public,” Murphy said.

Specialty workshops will be offered throughout the summer and last an hour or an afternoon. Workshops allow people get a feel for their area of interest.

If one enjoys a workshop, one can later sign-up for a course in that area already having a little experience. However, all people are welcome to participate with or without prior experience.

The last day to enroll in the course is 48 hours before the start date of the class. Classes go from June 24- August 18. This Saturday is the final day to sign-up for some courses.

The Octagon has also applied for a grant that has allowed them to redo and expand the ceramics studio. Ceramics is one of the most popular programs offered. This expansion will allow the center to offer classes for those crafts.

Murphy said that people have also expressed interest in jewelry making and woodworking. The Center hopes the studios will be ready for the fall session.

Not only can people spend time on their creativity and artistic abilities at the Center, they can become a member.

The Octagon Center’s membership is approximately 600 people. Membership fees are priced according to age and can also be purchased for entire families.

Members are entitled to Octagon Newsletters, Invitations to exhibit openings, receptions, panel discussions, and special events. Members also receive discounts on classes, workshops, purchases made on items in The Octagon Shop’s original art and craft items, art catalogs, trips, and tours.

To enroll, call The Octagon Center for the Arts at 232-5088 or visit its location at 427 Douglas Ave. The Octagon is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.