Carlisle, PA 17013

The Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC) was founded in 1992 to encourage creativity and self-esteem through exploration and appreciation of the visual arts. The non-profit art center opened inside a three-story building at 19 N. Hanover St. in August 1998.

The 1912 building is located in Carlisle’s downtown historic district. CALC now offer classes and workshops in five main areas: ceramics, drawing, painting, photography, copper enameling and arts-and-crafts,” Morgenthal says. “We have courses for children, teens, and adults.” CALC instructors are experienced art educators or working artists themselves. Many classes are geared for beginners. Course fees are based on the number of hours of instruction.

Many area Scout troops, home schoolers, and church groups have scheduled customized workshops at CALC. Groups can arrange single or multiple sessions in clay, photography, or a variety of arts-and-crafts. Three weeks notice is usually required to make arrangements for these events.

In addition to the classes and workshops, CALC volunteers host open studios each week in clay and photography — from 6 to 9 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays, and from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Another facet of CALC’s mission is fulfilled through its art exhibit programming in it’s art gallery.  Six or seven shows are slated each year, and most feature works created by mid-state artists. Sculpted wood, paintings, pastels, basketry, ceramics, copper enameling, wildlife carvings, photography, and dolls are just a few of the media that have been showcased at CALC in recent years.

For further information about any of CALC’s programs, the annual Benefit Art Auction, or other activities, call the CALC message line, 717-249-6973, or visit the CALC website, www.carlislearts.org.