Spring Courses
Arts
Expressive Acrylics and Collage for Creative Growth
Saturday, April 25th
1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Instructor: Iliana Cardona
Registration fee: NU $59, Public $69
Experience artmaking as an act of self-care in this welcoming, hands-on course. Here, acrylic painting and collage become tools for personal expression, reflection, and joy. No experience is required!
You’ll explore vibrant acrylic techniques and the tactile possibilities of collage, learning how to blend, layer, and experiment with materials in a supportive environment. My teaching is rooted in the belief that creativity flourishes when we let go of perfectionism, have fun, and bravely try new things. This session is designed to help you unwind, play, and enjoy your artistic voice, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist seeking fresh inspiration.
By the end of the workshop, students will have an original piece, a toolkit of acrylic and collage skills, and a renewed sense of creative confidence.
Beginning Cross-Stitch
Saturday, April 25th
1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Anne Howard
Registration fee: NU $69, Public $79
Knitting is a calming, creative, and portable art that lets you design things in just the right color and size. If you'd like to make useful handmade items while you watch tv, ride the bus, or listen to a lecture; if you need a creative outlet; or if you're looking for a meditative daily activity, then knitting is for you. In this two-session class, students will learn the four basic elements of knitting (plus a few extras) and will learn how to choose a pattern and yarn for their first project.
Supplies are included.
Introduction to Knitting
Saturdays, April 25th and May 2nd (2 Sessions)
1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Anne Howard
Registration fee: NU $55, Public $65
Knitting is a calming, creative, and portable art that lets you design things in just the right color and size. If you'd like to make useful handmade items while you watch tv, ride the bus, or listen to a lecture; if you need a creative outlet; or if you're looking for a meditative daily activity, then knitting is for you. In this two-session class, students will learn the four basic elements of knitting (plus a few extras) and will learn how to choose a pattern and yarn for their first project.
Supplies are included.
Wheel Throwing One Day Workshop
Section A: Saturday, April 25th - Date Night Special
3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Registration fee: NU $109, Public $119 (for 2 people)
Section B: Saturday, May 2nd
3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Registration fee: NU $55, Public $65
Instructor: Sylvia Tan
Want to dip your hands in a little clay? Come join us for a two-hour workshop where you'll learn the fundamental steps of throwing. Participants will get to throw as much as they can, but will only be choosing one piece to keep. Participants will get to choose from 4 different glaze colors to match their perfect creation. Projects will be available for pick up two weeks from the workshop's completion. No experience is required!
Supplies are included.
Mother's Day Painting Class
Saturday, May 9th
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Instructor: Iliana Cardona
Registration fee: NU $99, Public $109 (for 2 people)
Celebrate an early Mother’s Day with creativity, connection, and color! Join Chicago artist Iliana Cardona for a joyful “Mommy & Me” acrylic painting class designed for moms (or caregivers) and their children to make art side by side.
In this special session, you’ll explore vibrant acrylic paints together, learning playful techniques for blending, layering, and expressing your unique bond on canvas. No experience is needed, just a willingness to have fun, get a little messy, and make memories! Each pair will create their own keepsake artwork to take home, along with new skills and a deeper appreciation for art as a form of quality time.
*Children must be ten years or older to participate.
Supplies are included.
Movement
Women Self Defense
Wednesday, April 29th and May 6th (2 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.Instructor: Margaret Lo
Registration fee: NU $39, Public $49
Students will learn basic self-defense techniques in an encouraging environment. Instructor Margaret Lo is a Shotokan karate instructor with many years of experience who is also certified to teach self-defense by RAD Systems, http://rad-systems.com/. The classes will address the psychological underpinnings of self-defense as well as basic escapes and strikes. .
Special Interest
Dining Etiquette
Saturday, April 25th
1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Instructor: Krystal Williams
Registration fee: NU $59, Public $69
Elevate your dining skills and make a lasting impression at any business meal, social gathering, or formal event! This engaging and hands-on workshop is designed to take the mystery out of dining etiquette while keeping the experience fun, interactive, and practical.
Through live demonstrations, group activities, and real-world scenarios, you'll gain the confidence to navigate multi-course meals, handle tricky dining situations, and engage in polished table conversations. Whether you're attending a corporate dinner, networking over lunch, or simply want to refine your table manners, this workshop will ensure you dine with grace and confidence.
Expressive Writing for Emotional Healing
Saturday, May 2nd
1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Christine Wolf
Registration fee: NU $39, Public $49
Whether you’ve known periods of overwhelm, trauma, or significant difficulty, it’s important to process these experiences in healthy ways. In this course, you’ll learn the evidence-based technique of expressive writing to help process difficult emotions to help you get “unstuck”. The practice of Expressive Writing, pioneered by Dr. James Pennebaker in 1986, is a remarkably straightforward and FREE way to acknowledge your most troubling memories and create a framework of language that can help to move unresolved thoughts out of your head and onto the page (or even into the air).
Seasonal Floral Design
Saturday, May 2nd
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Instructors: Amy and Dominic Esquibel (Owners of Botanik Culture, Inc.)
Registration fee: NU $59, Public $69
Discover the joy of flower design! Join us to create stunning seasonal bouquets with the guidance of local florists. In this workshop, you’ll begin to master the basics of floral design, working with a variety of fresh, seasonal flowers and learning unique techniques to craft your beautiful bouquet.
Coffee 101: Brewing the perfect cup of coffee
Saturday, May 2nd
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Instructor: Bradley Davey
Registration fee: NU $59, Public $69
Join us as we explore the world of coffee in this hands-on tasting and brewing workshop. Over two hours, you’ll sample a lineup of special and experimental coffees, learn how flavor changes with grind, water, and brew method, and practice making your own perfect cups. No experience needed, just curiosity and a love of coffee.
A Creative Approach to Watercolor
Mondays, April 13th - May 18th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Ingrid Albrecht
Early registration fee: NU $139, Public $149
Regular registration fee: NU $149, Public $159
Have you ever wanted to create a dramatic painting in watercolor? Then this is the course for you! For 6 weeks, Ingrid will guide participants through basic learning steps of brush control, various washes, color theory, the importance of value (those light and dark shapes), and creating exciting shapes not boring ones. Added to this list are some special tips that Ingrid will share to bring excitement to watercolor painting. There will be no fear of the blank paper and students will wish that the course was longer. At the end of each session the participants learn from each other during a class critique.
Supplies are included.
Introduction to Black and White Analog Photography
Tuesdays, April 14th - May 19th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: YongSun Choi
Early registration fee: NU $139, Public $149
Regular registration fee: NU $149, Public $159
This course is an introduction to 35mm film camera operation with manual adjustments, black and white film developing, and darkroom printing. Students will experience the process of photography from image-making with film to printing their own prints as an analog process and making photograms.
Supplies are included.
More arts classes are available in the workshop tab!
All supplies included
Introduction to Handbuilding
Mondays, April 6th - May 11th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.Instructor: Patty Marfise-Patt
Early Registration fee: NU $139, Public $149
Regular registration fee: NU $149, Public $159
In this class, we will spend six weeks creating functional ceramic pieces! You will build by hand using the three main types of hand-built clay construction, pinching, coiling, and slab. We will also explore Kurinuki. We will work with the glazes available in the studio and learn proper glaze procedures. We will also look at various surface decoration techniques, such as so that your pieces will be truly one of a kind!
Wheel Throwing I (Beginner)
Section A: Mondays, April 6th - May 11th (6 Sessions)
3:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Patty Marfise-Patt
Section B : Tuesdays, April 7th - May 19th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Patty Marfise-Patt
Section C : Wednesdays, April 8th - May 20th (6 Sessions)
3:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Elizabeth Fowler
Section D : Thursdays, April 9th - May 21st (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Tomoyasu Nakano
Early Registration fee: NU $139, Public $149
Regular registration fee: NU $149, Public $159
Students will be introduced to the basic principles of making functional ceramic art. In this course, students will begin with the process of wheel throwing with detailed instruction on how to throw a cylinder, bowl, and much more. The kinesthetic process of pottery will be explored through developing technical skills on the wheel as well as understanding the function of various forms developed throughout the history of ceramics. Learn how to make functional work that you can use at home as foodware for yourself, friends, or family. This course is for students who have never worked with clay before and is the perfect introduction to wheel throwing.
Wheel Throwing II (Intermediate)
Section A: Tuesdays, April 7th - May 19th (7 Sessions)
3:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Tomoyasu Nakano
Section B: Wednesdays, April 8th - May 20th (7 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Elizabeth Fowler
Section C: Thursdays, April 9th - May 21st (7 Sessions)
3:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Instructor: Tomoyasu Nakano
Early Registration fee: NU $149, Public $159
Regular registration fee: NU $159, Public $169
Wheel Throwing II is for students who have completed at least one wheel throwing course in the past. In this course, Students will learn how to throw a large range of functional work and explore complex ways of decorating and glazing. From mugs and bowls, to large vases, plates, and coffee pour-overs, this course is perfect for those who are looking to improve their throwing techniques and aesthetics. This course aims to improve the student's confidence in their abilities and to connect the larger community within the studio.
*Prerequisites: must have taken a beginner’s wheel throwing class
More classes are available in the workshop tab!
More classes are available in the workshop tab!
American Sign Language II (Intermediate) - online course
Mondays, April 13th - June 1st (8 sessions)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.Instructor: Peter Wujcik
Early Registration: NU $89, Public $99
Regular registration: NU $99, Public $109
This course introduces the basics of American Sign Language Part II, for more intermediate learners. This class will explore basic sign vocabulary and basic grammatical structures such as English to ASL and ASL to English while expanding on higher-level skills.
Creative Writing
Tuesdays, April 14th – May 19th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 7.30 p.m.
Instructor: Steven Fischer
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
In Creative Writing, participants create their own original and personal stories. This course is ideal for anyone interested in the basics of narrative writing, improving communication skills, storytelling, and taking their writing to the next level. Along the way, we’ll explore the philosophy, metaphysics, and psychology of inspiration and creativity. We will look at how creative writing benefits mental health by using exercises that access hidden feelings and memories in ways that help us process trauma.
Memoir Writing
Thursdays, April 16th - May 21st (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Christine Wolf
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
In this six-week memoir course, you’ll learn how to shape your life experiences into a coherent, meaningful narrative while establishing a steady writing rhythm that supports real progress. We’ll explore structure, scene writing, reflection, emotional pacing, how to identify the moments that define your story, and so much more. You’ll also receive an overview of book proposals and publishing paths. This is a warm, encouraging space to begin—or return to—your memoir with intention.
This class welcomes memoirists at any stage—those exploring an idea, those already drafting, and those with prior publications seeking a space to refine their craft and reconnect with the heart of their story. We revisit foundational techniques with respect for your experience while offering new insights, emotional grounding practices, and a steady writing rhythm. If you’ve ever felt stuck, uncertain, or simply in need of community and momentum, this course meets you exactly where you are.
Introduction to Contemporary Dance
Mondays, April 6th – May 25th (6 Sessions - no class on May 20th)
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Instructor: Grace Philion
Early Registration: NU $59, Public $69
Regular registration: NU $69, Public $79
Come explore creative movement styles and find your own expression through dance! This class is geared towards beginners who want to find new ways of moving and expressing themselves. Students should be prepared to move on the floor and can wear whatever they feel comfortable dancing in.
Introduction to Salsa
Wednesdays, April 15th - May 27th (6 Sessions)
5:00 - 5:50 p.m.
Instructor: Cate Curtis
Early Registration: NU $49, Public $59
Regular registration: NU $59, Public $69
Known for its energetic and sensual movements, salsa is one of the most popular dances in the world. This class will introduce you to the history and basic movements of salsa dance. We will focus on both solo and partner dancing, with an emphasis on the social aspects of the dance. By the end of the course, you will be able to recognize the rhythms of salsa music, execute salsa’s basic steps, and dance with a partner. All levels are welcome, and no dance experience is required.
Introduction to Bachata
Wednesdays, April 15th - May 27th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 6:50 p.m.
Instructor: Cate Curtis
Early Registration: NU $49, Public $59
Regular registration: NU $59, Public $69
Learn the fundamentals of Bachata, a captivating and sensual dance style that originated in the Dominican Republic. In this class, you will be introduced to the history and basic movements of Bachata. We will focus on both solo and partner dancing, with an emphasis on the social aspects of the dance. By the end of the course, you will be able to recognize the rhythms and patterns of Bachata music, perform the essential steps and add flair, and dance with a partner. All levels are welcome, and no dance experience is required.
Introduction to Swing Dancing
Wednesdays, January 21st – February 25th (6 Sessions)
7:00 - 7:50 p.m.
Instructor: Cate Curtis
Early Registration: NU $49, Public $59
Regular registration: NU $59, Public $69
Since its earliest beginnings in 1920s Harlem, swing has been a popular social dance known for its energetic movement and upbeat tempos. This class will introduce you to the history and basic movements of swing dance. We will focus on both solo and partner dancing, with an emphasis on the social aspects of the dance. By the end of the course, you will be able to identify swing music, execute swing’s rhythmic steps, and dance with a partner. All levels are welcome, and no dance experience is required.
Tai Chi
Wednesdays, April 15th - May 27th (6 Sessions)
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Inna Melnikov
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
Come learn Tai Chi, is a non-combat martial art, that helps cultivate mental focus and builds protective energy. This course will introduce the skills and philosophy of ancient Chinese martial arts. This traditional spiritual and physical practice cultivates spirit, energy, physical and mental strength, focus, and memory. Great ideas have an opportunity to emerge during the calm meditative state it provides. Join the Tai Qi class conducted by the Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Inna Melnikov, who has taught Tai Qi at Norris for over 15 years.
More classes are available in the workshop tab!
Pocket Billiards for Beginners
Tuesdays, April 14th - May 19th (6 Sessions)
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Instructor: Larry Schwartz
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
These lessons are tailored to players who range from beginner level to advanced. You will learn topics ranging from mastering fundamentals to difficult shots and game strategies.
Public Speaking: How to Speak with Confidence and Impact
Wednesdays, April 15th – May 20th (6 Sessions)
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Instructor: Tom Rosenak
Early Registration: NU $69, Public $79
Regular registration: NU $79, Public $89
In this class, we will learn how to develop the skills and the confidence needed to make clear, professional, and persuasive presentations to audiences of any size. In addition to the emphasis on physical delivery skills, other important topics include analyzing the audience, organizing the content, using visuals to support the message, and handling questions and objections. Some topics covered include organizing your thoughts for persuasion, audience analysis, physical delivery skills congruent to your style and message, detractors and enhancers, delivering effective presentations, physical delivery skills, and overcoming resistance and Q&A.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
Thursdays, April 9th - May 28th (8 Sessions)
9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Instructor: Eric Budzynski
Early Registration: NU $89, Public $99
Regular registration: NU $99, Public $109
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a structured program designed to help you build a mindfulness practice through guided techniques like body awareness, sitting and walking meditation, and gentle movement. It supports your overall well-being by increasing emotional resilience and management of stress, anxiety, and physical pain.
Originally developed by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979, MBSR has been offered in schools, hospitals, and workplaces around the world as a down-to-earth way to bring mindfulness into everyday life.