The Blanden Memorial Art Museum is continuing art opportunities for children on Jan. 16. New classes have been developed to be taught virtually yet have the one-on-one capability in creating a piece of art for the participants involved. It is the latest opportunity for the public to enjoy the works on display at the museum during the winter months.

“The classes developed for the winter engage children using a variety of art materials they can commonly find. These workshops are available to children through the generosity of Availa Bank here in Fort Dodge. Twenty-five art kits will be provided free to those who register for each class in January, February and March. This is a great partnership with a community supportive business and provides families with a wonderful opportunity to explore creatively,” said Eric Anderson, director of the Blanden Memorial Art Museum.

The first class to be offered is Self Portrait with Acrylic Paint, inspired by Lenore Benolken’s painting, “Maiden of Czechoslovakia, 1934,” currently on display in the Blanden’s West Gallery. Each registered participant will sign up at the Blanden or online at www.blanden.org. Hours to register are 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday by appointment only. For more information, call 515-576-2316.

They will receive a bag with materials to create the project and instructions on how to create their own self-portrait, acrylic painting. On the day of the class, they will log in to watch it on Facebook Live and follow along step-by-step with the instructor. While the art technique is being demonstrated by the teacher, the children/parents can ask questions of staff live during the hourlong class. Each class session is then archived on the Blanden website and Facebook as well as the Blanden’s YouTube channel.