Pottery Wheel: Wheel I Like It?

Join this creative workshop to craft a custom twelve by twelve inch mosaic garden stone featuring a charming fox design nestled among flowers. This session provides a hands-on introduction to the art of glass mosaic work in a collaborative environment. Participants will master essential techniques, including how to safely cut glass and precisely set each piece to build their unique garden decor. No prior experience is required to produce a beautiful, professional quality stone. The class lasts three and a half hours, providing ample time for instruction and individual design work. After completion, your mosaic will remain with the instructor for professional grouting to ensure a durable, weather resistant finish. Finished pieces will be ready for pickup at the Renaissance Centre one week after the class date. Whether you are a beginner looking to explore a new craft or an experienced artist seeking a fun project, this workshop offers a rewarding experience. The atmosphere is friendly and encouraging for all skill levels. Spaces are limited, so please secure your spot by selecting the register button to join us for this artistic afternoon.

Summer at the Centre welcomes The Embers for a live outdoor concert experience at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre. This performance celebrates the iconic beach music sound that has become a hallmark of coastal North Carolina summers. The Embers, recognized as the 2022 Carolina Beach Music Awards Group of the Year, lead the evening with their signature rhythmic style. Attendees can expect a high-energy performance featuring classic beach music hits designed for dancing and entertainment. Before the concert begins, the venue will host free line dancing lessons to help guests prepare for the night ahead. This event is ideal for music lovers and anyone looking for a relaxed, community-focused evening of entertainment. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming and energetic for guests of all ages. We encourage participants to arrive early to take advantage of the dance instruction and secure a good spot. Make plans now to join us for this quintessential summer celebration of music and dance. We look forward to seeing you at the Renaissance Centre for an evening of coastal rhythms and shared fun.

This hands-on workshop guides you through the creation of a custom stained glass night light for your home. You will learn professional craft techniques to design, build, and assemble a unique light fixture from start to finish. During this session, you will master the fundamentals of stained glass artistry. The process includes precise glass cutting, copper foil application, and professional soldering techniques. Once your glass piece is complete, you will learn how to properly secure it to the night light base to ensure a functional and polished final product. All necessary tools, glass supplies, and hardware are provided by the studio for your convenience. This course is open to everyone, regardless of prior experience level. Whether you are a total beginner or a seasoned hobbyist, you will receive personalized instruction in a supportive and creative environment. Join us to develop a new skill and take home a beautiful handmade item that adds charm to any room. Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today to begin your stained glass journey and brighten your home with your own creative work.

In the Moment is an interactive pilot program that provides engaging cultural experiences for individuals living with memory changes and their care partners. This initiative connects participants through the exploration of art, history, and science in a supportive setting. Each session offers hands-on, sensory-rich activities designed to spark curiosity and meaningful discussion. Participants will explore themes related to the natural world and North Carolina culture while utilizing resources from state institutions. The program draws on expertise from the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of History, and the North Carolina Zoo and Botanical Gardens to ensure diverse and high-quality programming. This recurring program is tailored specifically for those navigating memory changes and those who support them. The atmosphere is welcoming, social, and intentionally paced to foster connection and expression. Whether you are looking to discover new interests or enjoy a shared experience, this program provides a unique opportunity to engage with your community. We invite you to join us for these sessions to discover how culture and connection can enrich daily life. Please register to participate in this upcoming series.

This one day workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to knife making through the stock removal method. Participants will learn to transform a piece of high carbon steel into a finished knife under the guidance of qualified ShopSpace instructors. The curriculum covers the entire production process from initial design layout to final finishing. Students will cut their blade shape, grind bevels, select and attach handle wood, and perform heat treatment. By the end of the session, each attendee will complete and take home their own custom knife. Please note that this is a fast paced course designed to keep all students on track within the allotted timeframe. This class is open to anyone who has already completed either the Fabrication Intro or Forging Intro courses. We recommend arriving with a simple knife design in mind to maximize your shop time, though design resources will be available on site. Register today to gain hands on experience with professional tools and master the fundamental techniques of bladesmithing in a collaborative and highly focused environment.

This pottery painting workshop is a self-guided creative session where participants paint their own ceramic pieces. The event offers a relaxed environment to explore artistic expression while working with various ceramic items like animals and trinket dishes. Upon arrival, guests select a ceramic item and receive all necessary painting materials, including brushes and paints. A team remains available throughout the ninety minute session to provide artistic guidance and tips. As a special highlight, attendees are welcome to interact with the resident cats during the creative process. All materials needed for painting are included with the ticket purchase. This workshop is suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it ideal for individuals, friends, and families. Whether you are seeking a solo creative outlet or a unique group activity, the studio provides a cozy atmosphere for everyone. You will leave with a personalized, hand painted ceramic piece to take home. We invite you to join us for an afternoon of fun, creativity, and feline company. Please book your spot in advance to ensure availability for this engaging hands on experience.

Join a park naturalist for an educational guided hike through the local ecosystem. This event offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the trail system while learning about the native plants and animals that inhabit our protected park lands. During this guided experience, you will traverse diverse terrains as the naturalist points out significant ecological features and wildlife habitats. The session is designed to provide deeper insight into regional biology through direct observation and expert interpretation. Participants will gain a better understanding of the natural processes that sustain our environment and learn how to identify various local species in their natural setting. This hike is intended for nature enthusiasts and anyone interested in local ecology. We recommend this experience for individuals comfortable walking at least one mile on uneven paths. Please ensure you are prepared for the outing by wearing sturdy closed-toe shoes and carrying a full water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trek. We invite you to join us for an informative morning outdoors where you can connect with nature, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery alongside an experienced professional who is dedicated to park conservation.

The Got to Be NC Festival is a three day community celebration hosted at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. This annual event showcases the best of the state by highlighting local products, agriculture, and regional culture in one central location. Attendees can explore a vast array of exhibits featuring North Carolina made food, beverages, and crafts. The festival grounds host live musical performances, agricultural demonstrations, and interactive displays suitable for all ages. Visitors will find plenty of opportunities to sample local goods while learning about the industry and heritage that define the state. The layout ensures easy navigation through different vendor sections and entertainment areas. This event is designed for families, local residents, and visitors who want to experience authentic North Carolina hospitality. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and perfect for a weekend outing with friends. Admission to the festival and parking are both completely free for everyone. Plan your visit to support local businesses and enjoy a festive environment that celebrates the unique identity of North Carolina. We invite you to join the community for this comprehensive state showcase.

Let’s Make Maps is an educational program focused on the history and creation of cartography. Participants will explore how various maps have been constructed throughout history and apply these techniques by creating their own maps of the Prairie Ridge area. During the session, attendees will discover how mapping connects to global citizen science initiatives. You will learn practical ways to contribute to projects that monitor and conserve ecosystems. The experience involves a short walk of approximately one half mile to our outdoor classroom where we will conduct our mapping activities. This program bridges the gap between historical craft and modern environmental science, providing you with the tools to document the natural world. This event is perfect for anyone curious about geography or conservation efforts. We encourage participants of all skill levels to join us for this engaging outdoor experience. Please dress appropriately for the current weather conditions, as we will be walking to our site from the main building near the parking lot. We look forward to seeing you there for a productive and educational afternoon of mapping and environmental discovery.