Upcoming Workshops and Events
Welcome to our Workshops and Events page! Here, you'll discover a variety of workshops and events designed to inspire your creativity. Join us as we explore various forms, connect with fellow artists, and unleash your imagination. We can't wait share these enriching experiences with you!
At the Machias Arts Council, we believe the arts should be accessible to everyone. Financial concerns should never stand in the way of creativity, community, or learning. If you’d like to participate in one of our workshops or events but cost is a barrier, please reach out. We offer confidential support, including pay‑what‑you‑can options and, in some cases, full coverage of workshop fees.
Calendar of Events
Scroll down for information on each event and links to register!
Upcoming Workshops & Events
Click on any flyer for additional information and to register!
Textile Tuesday
Tuesday, May 19, 5:30pm
Textile Tuesday is a low-key hangout where you can work on your fiber projects, share knowledge, and make friends. Bring a project to work on or one that has you stumped — we'll see if we can help! All textile mediums and all skill levels welcome.
We meet on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
Candle Making Workshop
Friday May 22 6pm - 8pm
Back by Popular Demand!
Experience the joy of crafting with this workshop, where creativity lights up our community. Learn the art of candle making in a hands-on workshop that blends artistry and warmth. This event offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local art scene and connect with fellow art enthusiasts.
All supplies are provided and each participant will take home a complete candle making kit that includes electric melting pot, wax, fragrance oil, color, everything needed to continue making candles at home.
May 22 6pm-8pm
Cost: $85 and includes all supplies plus candle making kit to take home!
Limited to 10 participants! Early registration recommended.
Watercolor Workshop
Sunday May 24 1pm - 3pm
Join watercolor artist Lana Quann of The Wandering Brush Studios for a hands‑on workshop exploring simple, approachable watercolor techniques. Participants will create a series of miniature landscapes inspired by our local scenery while learning how to work with color, light, and texture.
This beginner‑friendly workshop is designed to help you relax, experiment, and enjoy the creative process—no prior experience needed.
The cost is $45, and all supplies are provided, so you can simply show up and paint.
Space is limited, and early registration is recommended
Painted Wine Bottle Workshop
Friday May 29 6pm - 8pm
Learn the basics of painting on glass as you transform a simple wine bottle into a bright, spring‑themed decorative piece.
Instructor Barbara Johnson, known for her years of teaching creative painting on unique surfaces, will guide you step‑by‑step through techniques perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike.
All supplies are provided, including the bottle. Class size is limited to 12 participants to ensure plenty of individual attention.
Friday, May 15, 6–8 p.m., $45 per person, All materials included
Come celebrate spring with color, creativity, and a one‑of‑a‑kind piece of art for your home.
First Friday Art Nights
Friday, June 5 - 4pm - 7pm
Kick off summer with First Friday Art Nights, our monthly celebration of creativity, community, and the joy of making art together. Each First Friday transforms the Machias Arts Center into a lively outdoor‑indoor arts experience featuring local artists, live music, great food, and hands‑on activities for all ages.
Stroll through artist booths, watch live demonstrations, try your hand at creative projects, and explore a dedicated kids’ art area designed to spark imagination. Whether you’re here to browse, create, listen, or simply soak in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.
These evenings are all about bringing our community together to celebrate local talent and shared creativity — and admission is always FREE.
Family Craft Day - Suncatchers
Sunday, June 7th - 1pm-3pm
Summer sun is here! Paint your own June suncatcher in the shape of a fish, bug, or butterfly. A great activity for kids and grownups alike.
This event is FREE, but registration is required due to limited quantities. Each session is capped at 6 participants to ensure everyone has space and materials.
Session Times: 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM
Please register for one session. If you find you’re unable to attend after registering, contact us so we can offer your spot to another family.
A bright, creative afternoon awaits—come make your own painted suncatcher!
Stained Glass Suncatcher Workshop
Saturday, June 20 & 27 1pm-3pm
Due to popular demand, we’re offering our stained glass workshop again this spring. This is a two‑day, beginner‑friendly class, and you’ll need to attend both sessions to complete your project.
Over the two sessions, you’ll learn the full stained glass process:
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Day 1 (June 20): Template cutting, glass cutting, and grinding
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Day 2 (June 27): Foiling, soldering, and finishing your suncatcher
Each participant will create their own piece from a selection of beginner‑friendly designs. No experience or tools required—all glass, supplies, and equipment are provided.
The workshop is taught by Dave and Lisa Roy, stained glass artisans with over 20 years of experience. For a decade, they owned and operated a full‑service stained glass studio in Bucksport, and their work appears in hospitals, businesses, churches, and private homes around the world. You can explore more of their work at www.stubborncowglass.com.
Cost: $125 Registration required; a deposit is needed to hold your spot.
Class size: Limited to 8 students—early registration is recommended.
Outdoor Movie Night!
Friday June 19 - Dusk
Double Feature Movie Night: Little Shop of Horrors & House on Haunted Hill
Join us for a free community movie night featuring two unforgettable cult classics shown back‑to‑back. We’ll kick things off with the quirky, campy fun of Little Shop of Horrors, followed by the atmospheric thrills of House on Haunted Hill. It’s the perfect blend of spooky, silly, and nostalgic—great for fans of vintage cinema or anyone looking for a lively night out. Popcorn, snacks, and drinks will be available, so bring a friend and enjoy a double dose of classic movie magic at the Machias Arts Center.
Charm Bar Workshop
Sunday, June 28 12pm - 2pm
Design a bracelet that’s uniquely yours! Join us on Saturday, May 9 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for a fun, hands‑on Charm Bar Workshop where you’ll create your own custom charm bracelet.
Choose from a variety of charms, assemble your design, and leave with a finished piece that reflects your style or makes a perfect handmade gift.
This workshop is brought to us by Dream In Gold Jewelry, Dream Charm Bar & PJ of Bangor, ME.
Cost: $45 All materials included. Space is limited; registration required.