ISSUED: 9 January 2018
MEDIA CONTACT: Valerie Owens
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University’s Lifelong Learning Program is teaming up with the Fine Art, Science, Technology, Engineering, Educational Resource (FASTEnER) Lab to offer three new hands-on workshops in the Department of Contemporary Art and Theater.
“The FASTEnER Lab contains a wood shop, digital fabrication equipment, metal shop and casting with materials that range from plastics and waxes to ceramics and metal,” said Karen Rice, Lifelong Learning director. “We are excited to offer our members an opportunity to experience this multifaceted fabrication space and to try their hand at cutting-edge technologies.”
The three courses offered beginning in February are:
- Introduction to Woodworking: Make a Decorative Box—beginning Friday, February 2, with six sessions led by Mike Mendez, adjunct faculty. Participants will learn the fundamentals of woodworking while creating a decorative box, explore the characteristics of wood, and learn how to select the best wood for specific uses. They will get hands-on experience using hand tools and power tools, with an emphasis on safety in addition to wood shop and basic equipment maintenance. The class includes lectures, demos, and one-on-one instruction. No prior experience is necessary. An additional $40 materials fee is required.
- Introduction to Digital Fabrication—beginning Monday, February 5, with six sessions led by Kevin Dartt, clinical faculty/3-D fabrication manager. Participants will work on a series of projects that will focus on the fundamentals of using CAD software in conjunction with 3-D printers and a laser cutter/engraver. Although a basic understanding of computers is advised, it is not necessary. A $35 additional materials fee is required.
- Introduction to Metal Arts—beginning, Wednesday, March 21, with four sessions led by Christian Benefiel, associate professor of art and B.F.A. sculpture coordinator. Students will learn the basics of MIG welding, arc welding, plasma cutting, and finishing work. The course will cover basic processes, safety procedures, materials, and design techniques for metal fabrication. Students should come with safety glasses and a pair of leather welding gloves, which are available at the Shepherd University Bookstore for $14. A $60 additional materials fee is required.
Class size is limited. Early registration is strongly encouraged.
The cost for first-time non-members is $99 plus the materials fee. There are two levels of Lifelong Learning membership available: Silver, which costs $85 a year, and includes tour discounts and free lunch lectures. Silver members pay $60 for each class they want to take. Gold Membership, which costs $325 a year, includes all enrollment fees, all lectures, discounts on tours, free parking decal for lots on East and West Campus with access to shuttle bus, and invitations to special events. Spouses and domestic partners can receive a Gold Membership for an additional $175.
The Shepherd University Lifelong Learning Program is a volunteer, member-driven program dedicated to offering stimulating academic courses and activities to the community. For additional information and to register, go to www.shepherd.edu/lifelonglearning or contact Karen Rice, krice@shepherd.edu or 304-876-5135.
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