Arts at the Center

Welcome to Arts at the Center! Unleash your inner artist and explore new creative passions at the Uptown JCC! Join us for engaging sessions led by experienced instructors in a welcoming and supportive environment. Classes are currently held at the JCC Uptown location. To register for a class, click on the "Register" button on each class page, or call the JCC Uptown (504-897-0143).  If you have questions about the classes, please email Creative Arts Program Coordinator Joanna Russo at joanna@nojcc.org.

 

Ceramics Workshop

Sculpting with Clay: Create Your Own Golem

Sunday | July 12
2:00 - 4:00 pm
Ages 15 and up
$50 members | $60 non-members

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In this 2-hour workshop with JCC Artist-in-Residence Ness Kent, participants will learn foundational techniques for working with clay.  They will then use them to envision and sculpt their own golems: animated humanoid figures rooted in Jewish folklore.  Through hands-on clay sculpting, we will explore the history and symbolism of golems as protective beings, as well as the role of symbolic objects in our homes, families, and communities.

Each participant will dream up, sketch, and sculpt their personal golem, or protector, bringing intention and imagination into form.  Finished pieces will be kiln-fired and available for pickup 2–3 weeks after the workshop.

Ness Kent (they/them) is a queer, non-binary artist who grew up outside of Seattle, Washington - playing in the woods, digging holes, and picking berries. They received a BFA in Sculpture from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) in 2018 and have lived and worked creatively in New Orleans since 2020.

Ness is an interdisciplinary artist whose current practice balances visual arts, community building, and teaching. Over the years, Ness has explored a wide range of mediums, including ceramics, textiles, print-making, and mosaics. Ness’ current practice isn’t tied to a single medium - it’s deeply woven into exploration, community, and collaborative relationships with people of all ages. In 2021, they founded Mess Arts, a 501(c)(3) youth arts program focused on youth leadership, self-expression, and community. 

Ness’ website: www.thingswithness.com/about

Creative Writing Workshop 

Creative Writing Workshop
*All New Prompts!*

Sunday | July 19
10:30 - 12:30 pm
Ages 18 and up
$40 members | $50 non-members

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Looking to get your creative juices flowing?  Using a variety of prompts and exercises, this class is designed to silence your inner critic and help you tap into your imagination.  From veteran writers to newcomers to the art form, this class is for you!

Joanna Russo is a theater director and writer. Originally hailing from NYC, her NY directing credits include: Dialogue at the American Theater of Actors, Alice in Bed at the Juilliard School and Sideshow at the Susan Stein Shiva Theater. Here in New Orleans, Joanna serves as Co-Artistic Director for nationally touring ensemble Mondo Bizarro, working as a writer and director for the company for many years. Her writing has been performed across the country, from Kentucky to California, North Carolina to Hawaii and has been recognized by the American Academy of Poets.

 

Photography Workshop

Take Better Photos: A Photography Workshop for Every Camera and Every Curious Eye

Sunday | July 19
1:30 - 3:30 pm
Ages 15 and up
$50 members | $60 non-members

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Great photos aren't accidents — they're the result of a few simple decisions that anyone can learn.  Whether you're shooting with a DSLR, a mirrorless camera, or the phone in your pocket, you can create great photos.  In this fun, hands-on workshop, you'll discover how your camera actually works, how to frame a shot that stops people in their tracks, how to find and use beautiful natural light, and how to work with people.  No experience required, no gear upgrades needed. You'll leave with a sharper eye and a more confident hand to take photos you love.

Bruce France

Bruce France is a New Orleans–based photographer, videographer, creative producer, theater artist and communications coach with more than two decades of experience across higher education, corporate and nonprofit sectors. His work has served clients including Tulane University, Food Network and numerous arts organizations. He is also the co-founder and executive director of Mondo Bizarro, a production company specializing in live performance.

His website is: www.brucefrance.com