The arrival of November inspires appreciation for all that fills our plates, and sharing that good fortune with others. At Dorchester Center for the Arts, we are grateful to the members and supporters who help bring the magic to life every day; to the volunteers, who give so generously of their time and talents, and to those of all ages who come through the doors in appreciation of the arts in our community. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

DCA is proud to offer free opportunities for members and friends to gather with like-minded others for artistic pursuits. Consider the Choptank Writers, who meet weekly on Wednesdays from 3:00-5:00 p.m., “to encourage all genres of writing, to provide a setting for sharing those writings by giving one another helpful feedback, and to promote our community’s wealth of appreciation for the written word”.

New members are always welcome. DCA membership is encouraged, but not required. If you are a fiber artist, consider joining Fiber Art Fridays. From knitting to quilting to rug hooking to weaving – all are welcome. Meets Fridays from 10 a.m. – noon. Again, DCA membership is encouraged but not required.

DCA does offer gatherings for members only, as additional value but still no additional charge, including Friday Morning Drawing, an informal weekly portrait sketch open to artists of all levels of experience. Fridays 10 a.m. – noon. Members can also enjoy the free Open Painting Studio on Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m. Membership is open to all – stop by 321 High St. or visit online for more information.

Everyone can enjoy the gallery exhibits that change monthly, showcasing a broad range of talent in a variety of mediums. DCA is open Tuesday – Sunday, and admission is always free to the public!

November Bounty for Classroom and Stage

Nov. 4, Elissa Crouch presents a Yarn Dyeing Workshop from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn how to custom color your own yarn. If you love color, this class is for you! Call DCA for details.

Nov. 11 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Sheryl Southwick will present “Intro to Linoleum Block Printing.” Students will learn the basics, and make multi-block, multicolor images. No experience necessary! The workshop will repeat on Dec. 2. To learn more about the instructor, visit www.sherylsouthwick.com.

Also on Nov. 11, and continuing on Nov. 18, DCA will offer a seasonal workshop “Learn to Knit Socks,” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Advanced needle artist and instructor Windy Karpavage teams up with DCA newcomer Theo Ewers to present this two-day workshop sure to put some twinkle in your toes!

With homework, students will be able to complete a pair of custom socks in the workshop. Some prior knitting experience is necessary. Theo’s goals for teaching are to share her experiences and strategies to help others continue to learn and enjoy fiber arts. Call DCA for materials list and registration details: 410-228-7782.

“Classical Guitar for Young People and Adults” is being offered by Victoria Tarbutton. Students will learn on a nylon string classical guitar sometimes called a Spanish guitar. Lessons will include learning to read notes on the staff, scales, chords, theory and technique. Students should be ages six and older in order to read the music. Sessions are held on Wednesdays.

“An Evening with Paul, Liz, and Randy” returns to the Gallery Stage Nov. 18, 7-9 p.m. Paul Harrison, Liz Fisher, and Randy Welch share original and familiar songs featuring vocal harmonies and multiple instruments; guitar, mandolin, harmonica, and wood flute. Relax and enjoy their unique blend of musical styles including folk, blues, pop and light jazz. Tickets are $10 for DCA members, $12 future members. Refreshments available for purchase.

For more information on programs and events at DCA, call 410-228-7782, stop by Tuesday through Sunday at 321 High St. in Cambridge, or visit online at dorchesterarts.org. Programs at DCA are supported by the Maryland State Arts Council, now celebrating 50 years of service to the arts.

Editor’s note: Spectrum is the weekly column of the Dorchester Arts Center. It is written by Barbara J. Seese, executive director.