Creative Arts & Culture
Call for Art!
JCC’s 4rd Annual Community Art Exhibition Submissions are open!
Deadline to submit is February 15
The Shames JCC is thrilled to announce its fourth community art show. The art show will allow local artists eighteen and up, from amateur to professional, a chance to share and celebrate their work. We will accept work as space allows, but please note we have more limited space this year.
Details and requirements are on the submission form. Please review and submit here:
Literature
Memoir Writing Series with Rachel Levine
6 Thursdays; Jan. 9-Feb 13; 1:00-3:00 pm
Members: $30; non-members: $45
Many of us want to share our story. Sometimes it’s just for our family, sometimes it’s for the world. Whatever your reason, writing a memoir can be an exciting, fun, and sometimes transformative experience. Whether you have just started writing, have something in mind, or need inspiration, this workshop series is for you. All writing will be done at home; class time will be used for giving feedback on each other’s work and discussing technique. No writing experience is necessary and sharing your work is optional.
About the instructor: Rachel Levine is a writer of fiction, poetry, plays, and humor. She has an MFA from Brooklyn College and has taught fiction and memoir for many years. Her novel, “Brooklyn Valentine,” won 1st prize for popular fiction in the “IPPY” Contest (Independent Publishers) and her short story, “Ain’t No Word But Lonely,” won 1st prize in the International Short Story Project’s Contest.
RegisterJCC Book Club
The JCC Book Club is a group for people who love to read and discuss books. We meet every 4-6 weeks in the evening to discuss a different book, chosen by the group. If you are looking for a way to connect with other book lovers and explore new ideas, then the JCC Book Club is a great place to start!
See the calendar towards the bottom of this page for the latest book clubs.
Verve Book Club
FREE for members and non-members. See dates on calendar below.
Join the Verve Book Club, where avid readers gather to explore diverse literature or non-fiction, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and foster a welcoming community of lifelong learners. This group meets on select afternoons.
See the calendar towards the bottom of this page for book announcements!
Art, Music, and Cooking
Crafternoons with Kit
8 Mondays; Jan. 27-March 24; 1:00-3:00 pm
Members: $175; non-members: $190
This crafting series led by teaching artist Kit Demirdelen will focus on art projects that are fun, easy, and suitable for artists of any level. Over the course of this series, you will finish two to three projects with all participants moving at their own pace and skill level. Options might include mosaic, textile appliqué, weaving, printmaking, and more. Come chat and work alongside other creatives in this open and supportive artists space. All materials are included!
About the instructor: Multimedia artist Kit Demirdelen works out of her Hastings on Hudson studio. She studied art at Bennington College and has an MA in art therapy. Besides working on her own artwork and jewelry, she works with adults and children with special needs.
RegisterAdult Ukulele Lessons
6 Mondays; Jan. 13-Feb 24 (no class 2/17); 6:00-7:00 pm
Members: $130; non-members: $150
Join Jill Geddes and our community of ukulele enthusiasts in the Cohen Family Atrium as we strum our way through simple, popular songs. Like our popular beginner class, the focus is on fun in this relaxed and supportive class. Basic knowledge of the ukulele is helpful but all players are welcome! An instrument will be provided or you may bring your own.
RegisterWatercolors and More with Renee Shamosh
Stay tuned for future dates!
Enjoy painting in a fun and relaxed setting. Whether you want to learn about mixing colors, perfect your painting techniques, or just enjoy a night out with friends, this class will focus on the basics of watercolor painting and explore additional materials to enhance your work. All levels are welcome and all supplies are provided!
Italian Pasta Making Series With Amy Pane
Stay tuned for future dates!
Join our resident teaching chef, Amy Pane, in this exciting Italian pasta making series! You will learn the basics of making and shaping pasta dough, how to cook sauces to accompany each shape, and a bit about Italian culture and how pasta features into it. By the end of the month, the art of homemade pasta will be demystified so you can feel comfortable recipe planning and cooking at home. All materials are included and everyone will go home with recipes and newfound confidence. This class is for new and experienced cooks alike.
