In an effort to return to its artsy roots, Alexian Brothers Senior Neighbors is attempting to fill the void in its visual-arts offerings with a watercolor class taught by Lee Fritch.
An informational meeting will be held at Alexian Brothers Senior Neighbors 10th Street Arts and Culture Center Wednesday, March 16 at 10 a.m. Classes begin in April.
Signal Mountain artist Lee Fritch fills the visual-arts gap at Alexian Brothers Senior Neighbors 10th Street Arts and Culture Center with a beginning to intermediate-level watercolor course in April. An informational meeting at the center is scheduled for Wednesday, March 16 at 10 a.m.“Senior Neighbors is celebrating its 50th year, and was originally an arts, crafts and cultural hub for seniors,” said Signal Mountain resident Angela Bearisto, who became program developer for Senior Neighbors in November. “As part of our celebration and recognition of this anniversary, our mission is to revitalize our center and sort of take it back to what it used to be.”
She said she asked members which types of arts and culture-based classes and events they would like to see more of at the center.
“I heard over and over that there was a hole in the visual arts, and just about that same time I heard about Lee Fritch, who had just relocated to Chattanooga and Alexian Village on Signal Mountain,” said Bearisto.
She said she was amazed by the work shown on his website as well as his years of experience.
Fritch has been painting in watercolor since 1971 and began teaching group and private lessons in the medium in 1984. He is a former signature member of the Ohio and West Virginia watercolor societies and recently joined the Tennessee Watercolor Society.
“After listening to Lee talk about his passion for his art and his past teaching experiences and methods, I knew I had found our teacher,” said Bearisto.
During the informational meeting, Fritch said he will go over the necessary tools and materials and where to find them, as well as the focus of the class.
The class consists of 10 two-hour sessions concentrating on topics appropriate to beginning and intermediate skill levels, he said.
Fundamentals of paint application, color-mixing, correction and the seven elements and eight principles of design will be covered, said Fritch.
“It is absolutely essential that the student be equipped with good watercolor paper, brushes and paints,” he said.
Fritch said supply costs will be discussed in further detail at the informational meeting, but he estimates students will spend around $75 to $85 purchasing supplies.