New: **View our Summer 2026 Art Classes Here!**

View our Spring 2026 Art Classes Here!

EXPLORING PAINTING IN OIL & ACRYLICS

This workshop is intended to encourage new approaches to student’s current methods of painting. The objective is to abandon judgement, have fun and embrace discovery. The instructor will cover design/composition color mixing and mark making while encouraging simplifying detail to blur the boundaries between representation and abstraction and seeing shapes without labels. Supplies included. Instructed by Ann Lawtey. One-class sessions.

Registration:1/5/26-5/26/26
Program Dates:
  Session 6: Thursday, 4/16/26
  Session 7: Thursday, 4/23/26
  Session 8: Thursday, 4/30/26
Time: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $35

PRINTMAKING/BLOCK PRINTING:  SPRING FLOWER PANELS

Learn the basics of block printing using easy linocut tools and techniques, focusing on winter and spring flowers and garden scenes. We will sharpen our drawing and sketching skills, carve stamps, and make beautiful prints that represent your spring gardening your style. Supplies provided. Instructed by Dolly Sickles. One-class session.

Registration: 3/9/26-4/13/26
Program Date: Saturday, 4/18/26
Time: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 17+
Fee: $30


GLASS FUSING WORKSHOP

Glass Fusing is one of our most popular classes at the Arts Center and it is back this Spring! Imagine gorgeous stained glass layered to create beautiful jewelry and/or original designs. This class will show you how to cut glass, grind glass and use tips and tricks using glass frit, millefiori, copper wiring and glass strings. Supplies included. Instructed by Leigh Babcock. Two-class sessions.

Registration: 3/16/26-4/20/26
Program Dates: Tuesday, 4/21/26 & 4/28/26
Time: 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $60


TAP DANCING: BEGINNER

Did you know that tap dancing can reduce stress, increase energy and serotonin, improve flexibility, strength and balance, and create new neural pathways? And did you know that even if you've never put on a pair of tap shoes before, you can learn to tap in a matter of weeks? No experience is required for beginners, just a desire to have fun and be part of a growing community of tappers in Chatham County.

Registration: 4/1/26-5/4/26
Program Dates: Mondays, 5/4/26-6/8/26
Time: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: Chatham Grove Community Center
Ages: 16+
Fee: $60


TAP DANCING: ADVANCED

This class is for experienced tappers who are skilled at named steps and can perform intricate choreography.

Registration: 4/1/26-5/4/26
Program Dates: Mondays, 5/4/26-6/8/26
Time: 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.
Location: Chatham Grove Community Center
Ages: 16+
Fee: $60


HOMEMADE CROCHET: BEGINNER

Looking to organize your home with functional and fabulous crochet? In this fun, hands-on workshop you’ll make a boho plastic bag holder. Perfect if you want to learn the basics of working in rows including, single crochet, foundation single crochet, half double crochet, and the bobble stitch. Most supplies included, please see brief supply list. Instructed by Kira Jones. One-class session.

Registration: 4/6/26-5/11/26
Program Date: Saturday, 5/16/26
Time: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $35


STAINED GLASS WORKSHOP

Your favorite workshop is back! Choose one beginner stained-glass project (flower, bird, butterfly, dragonfly) and learn how to cut glass, grind glass, copper foil, solder, add fine details and apply patina. Supplies included. Instructed by Leigh Babcock. Two-class sessions.

Registration:
Session 1:4/13/26-5/18/26
Session 2: 7/6/26-8/10/26
Program Dates:
Session 1: Mondays, 5/19/26-5/26/26
Session 2: Saturdays, 8/15/26-8/22/26
Time: 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $70


FABRIC COILED BASKETS: ALL LEVELS

One of our favorite classes is back! Learn how to make a cute bowl from fabric wrapped around cotton cording and sewn together. You can make potholders and trivets too or even a BIG basket, the method is the same! Supplies included. Instructed by Bea Lee. One-class session.

Registration: 4/13/26-5/18/26
Program Date: Saturday, 5/23/26
Time: 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $45


SLEEPY AMIGURUMI KITTY: CROCHET

Amigurumi is the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small, stuffed yarn creatures! In this fun, hands-on workshop, you'll learn to make an adorable sleepy kitty. A cute companion to lounge around your home. Perfect for beginners ready to learn in-the-round techniques, including the magic ring, single crochet, increases, and decreases, and simple assembly. Learn the secrets of changing colors. Most supplies included, please see brief supply list. Instructed by Kira Jones. Four-class session.

Registration: 4/20/26-5/25/26
Program Dates: Tuesdays/Thursdays,6/2/26-6/11/26
Time: 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $50


WATERCOLOR & WHIMSEY

This class celebrates the unpredictable nature of watercolor. Using a micron ink pen & with a few fun tricks, participants will create loose whimsical flowers and fern designs. Supplies included. Instructed by Leigh Babcock. One-class session.

Registration: 5/11/26-6/15/26
Program Date: Saturday, 6/13/26
Time: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $20


SEWING ON PAPER: PAPER PIECING

Let us celebrate America 250, the nationwide celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776! Learn the basics of foundation paper piecing which means sewing on paper! Participants will make a United States Flag Mug Rug which is a small, mini-quilt project that serves as a cross between a coaster and a placemat, designed to hold a mug and/or a small snack. Participants should have basic skills with operating a sewing machine. Supplies and sewing machines provided. Instructed by Bea Lee. One-class session.

Registration: 5/11/26-6/15/26
Program Date: Saturday, 6/20/26
Time: 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $45


MOSAICS

Mosaic art is a process that has reflected the charm of many cultures. Learn about mosaic art using broken crockery, glass, jewelry, natural objects and more. The first project will be a pre-poured stepping stone (provided). Upon learning basic techniques, participants may select an independent project, enjoying studio time with instructor guidance. Supplies included. Six- class sessions.

Registration: 5/11/26-6/15/26
Program Dates: Mondays, 6/22/26-7/27/26
Time: 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $50


ECOPRINT WITH REAL FLOWERS & LEAVES: LINEN/COTTON WALL HANGING

Join local farmer, gardener, and botanical artist, Deena Class in this fun make 'n' take class where you get to go home with your own one-of-a-kind wall hanging printed with real flowers and leaves! Students will also go home with care instructions for their unique textile creation and a new way of looking at the "weeds" around them! All materials and supplies included. Instructed by Deena Class. Find out more about your instructor here! www.wordandplant.com One-class session.

Registration: 5/18/26-6/22/26
Program Date: Saturday, 6/27/26
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $50


FABRIC TUCKING: KINUAIGA

Discover the Japanese art of kinusaiga, or fabric tucking-a sustainable craft to use up all that scrap fabric-no sewing required! In this beginner-friendly class, participants will use scrap fabric and follow a beautiful template of their choice to create a tucked-in textile canvas art piece for any room! Supplies included. Instructed by Jessica Rigsbee. One-class session.

Registration: 6/1/26-7/6/26
Program Date: Wednesday, 7/8/26
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fees: $35



GLASS FUSING WORKSHOP

Hot glass is back for the summer! Imagine gorgeous stained glass layered and fired to create original fused jewelry and/or orignal creations! This class will show you how to cut glass, grind glass and use tips and tricks using glass frit, millefiori, copper wiring and glass strings. Supplies included. Instructed by Leigh Babcock. Three-class sessions.

Registration: 6/1/26-7/6/26
Program Dates: Thursday, 7/9/26-7/23/26
Time: 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $60


ECOPRINT WITH REAL FLOWERS & LEAVES: BAMBOO SOCKS

Join local farmer, gardener, and botanical artist, Deena Class in this fun make 'n' take class where you get to go home with your own one-of-a-kind pair of bamboo socks printed with real flowers and leaves! Students will also go home with care instructions for their unique socks and a new way of looking at the "weeds" around them! All materials and supplies included. Instructed by Deena Class. Find out more about your instructor here! www.wordandplant.com One-class session.

Registration: 6/1/26-7/6/26
Program Date: Saturday, 7/11/26
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $40


SEWING MACHINE 101

Curious about how to use a sewing machine? This beginner-friendly class is the perfect place to start! You will learn the basics of operating a sewing machine, including how to thread it properly, adjust stitch length, and experiment with a variety of fun stitches. By the end of the class, you will put your new skills into practice by creating your very own pincushion! All supplies included. Instructed by Bea Lee. One-class session.

Registration: 6/8/26-7/13/26
Program Date: Saturday, 7/18/26
Time: 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $35


BEAR BABY BEANIE: CROCHET: INTERMEDIATE

What’s cuter than a bear beanie? In this hands-on workshop you’ll learn to make a fun and practical hat for the kiddo in your life. Working in rows you’ll use: single crochet, double crochet, half double crochet, back post single crochet, back/front post half double crochet, back/front post double crochet, and a cluster stitch. Please see brief supply list. Instructed by Kira Jones. Three-class session.

Registration: 6/15/26-7/20/26
Program Dates: Saturdays, 7/25/26-8/8/26
Time: 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $50


CLAY-HANDBUILDING

Get your hands dirty! The perfect introductory class to clay hand-building! Each class will begin with a demonstration. Have fun with clay slabs, molds, texture and glazing. Studio time is available after each class. Registration fee includes one bag of white cone-6 clay, open studio time after class, house glaze and firing. Instructed by Leigh Babcock. Five-class sessions.

Registration: 6/22/26-7/27/26
Program Date: Thursdays, 7/30/26-8/27/26
Time: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $150


CLAY JEWELRY WORKSHOP

Design, sculpt, and paint small polymer clay jewelry pieces-necklaces, earrings, or charms inspired by whimsical, hand-painted ceramics! Each person will leave with 3-5 finished pieces that can be worn as pendants, necklaces, earrings, or ornaments. This workshop encourages creativity, storytelling through imagery, and an appreciation for handcraft and design. All supplies included. Instructed by Rebecca Bagley. Two-class sessions.

Registration: 7/6/26-8/10/26
Program Dates: Monday/Wednesday, 8/17/26, 8/19/26
Time: 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $35


ECOPRINT WITH REAL FLOWERS & LEAVES: COTTON APRON

Join local farmer, gardener, and botanical artist, Deena Class in this fun make 'n' take class where you get to go home with your own one-of-a-kind cotton apron printed with real flowers and leaves! Students will also go home with care instructions for their unique aprons and a new way of looking at the "weeds" around them! All materials and supplies included. Instructed by Deena Class. Find out more about your instructor here! www.wordandplant.com One-class session.

Registration: 7/20/26-8/24/26
Program Date: Saturday, 8/29/26
Time: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: 18+
Fee: $65

TENNIS & PICKLEBALL LESSONS

Chatham County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources has partnered with tennisbloc for adult tennis and pickleball lessons. To register for lessons, and for complete information, please visit the tennisbloc website at: www.tennisbloc.com.


Chatham County Calendar

Chatham County offer Open Gym at Chatham Grove Community Center:

ADULT OPEN PICKLEBALL

Beat the heat at our indoor adult pickleball sessions. All skill levels welcome and participants must sign in.

Program Dates:
Saturdays, 5/2/26-8/1/26*
Sundays, 5/3/26-8/2/26*
Times:
Saturdays, 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Sundays,1:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
Location: Chatham Grove Community Center
Ages: 18+
Fees: FREE!
*No Open Gym: 7/4, 7/5


ADULT OPEN BASKETBALL

Come shoot around at our adults only open gym sessions. All participants must sign in.

Program Dates:
Sundays, 5/3/26-8/2/26
Tuesdays, 6/16/26-8/4/26
Times:
Men’s 18+ Sundays, 3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Women’s 18+, Sundays, 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.
Adult Co-Ed 18+ Tuesdays, 6:00p.m.-8:45p.m.
Location: Chatham Grove Community Center
Ages: 18+
Fees: FREE!
*No Open Gym: 7/5


ADULT OPEN VOLLEYBALL

Drop in and join us for Adult Open Volleyball, focused on fun and fitness for all skill levels. All participant must sign in.

Program Dates: Thursdays, 6/18/26-8/6/26
Time: 6:00 p.m.-8:45 p.m.
Location: Chatham Grove Community Center
Ages: 16+
Fees: FREE!

Chatham County Calendar

Chatham County Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources offers many Open Play opportunities:

ADULT SOCCER OPEN PLAY (16+)

Join our adult soccer open play program for an exhilirating and inclusive on field experience. Whether you are a seasoned player or just looking to stay active, we have a spot for you! Enjoy friendly matches and getting to meet other soccer enthusiasts around the county through our open play!

April-June
Program Dates:
Wednesdays & Sunday, 4/1/26-6/7/26
Times:
Wednesdays, 8:00 p.m.-10 p.m.
Sundays 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.
Location: The Park at Briar Chapel (Field 4)

June-July
Program Dates:
Wednesdays & Sundays 6/10/26-7/29/26
Times: 6:00p.m.-8:00p.m.
Location: Northeast District Park

Ages: 16+ (16 & 17 year olds can play with guardians signature)
Fee: FREE!

OPEN PLAY PICKLEBALL & TENNIS (All Ages)

Program Dates:  January-May 2026
Location:  Northeast District Park Tennis Courts
Days/Times:  View Full Schedule 

Arts

THE GRAND CANVAS EXPERIENCE

Think big and paint bigger in this welcoming, inclusive art class designed for those with disabilities. In this one-session class, participants will create their own artwork on a large-scale canvas using a variety of tools, including brushes of different sizes, textured materials, stamps, stencils and oil pastels. All supplies included. One-class session. Instructed by Leigh Babcock.

Registration: 4/13/26-5/18/26
Program Date: Friday, 5/22/26
Time: 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.
Location: Arts Center
Ages: All ages & abilities
Fee: $10

Athletics & Fitness

JOURNEY LEAGUE

Journey League uses basketball to enhance the physical and social well-being of teens and adults with disabilities and special needs while building community for athletes and their families.

Registration: 4/17/26-7/23/26
Program Dates: Fridays, 7/17/26-8/21/26
Time: 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Location: Chatham Grove Community Center
Ages: 13+
Fee: $15