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When winter settles in and the days feel a little shorter, one of the best ways to lift your spirits is to stay active, stay creative and stay connected. Across Morristown and the Lakeway area, local instructors are offering classes that invite people of all ages to move, make and learn together. From painting and drawing to dance, fitness and even fencing, these programs offer more than instruction. They offer a reason to get out of the house and try something new.

Local artist Dan Gibson continues to bring his popular acrylic painting workshops to the community. These hands-on classes are designed for beginners and experienced painters alike, guiding students through the process of completing an 11-by-14-inch acrylic painting in a single session. Each workshop takes place on the fourth Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon in Classroom 3. All materials are provided, making it easy for participants to simply show up and create. The cost is $45 per workshop, and pre-registration is required directly through the instructor. Dan Gibson can be reached at dangibsonart@gmail.com or by phone at 423-312-4972.

For those who enjoy drawing, graphite classes led by instructor Mile Everidge are offered on the first and third Tuesday of each month, also at the Rose Center. These workshops focus on foundational drawing techniques using graphite and are well suited for anyone wanting to strengthen their skills or explore drawing for the first time. Each session costs $40 and includes all materials. Classes meet in Classroom 3, and pre-registration is required. More information is available by contacting Shaggeys.Art@gmail.com or through the instructor’s Facebook page.

Movement and performance also play a big role in shaking off the winter slump. The Morristown School of Dance Arts has been a cornerstone of the Lakeway arts community since 1973 and continues to offer a wide range of dance classes for ages three and up at Rose Center. Students can explore ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, lyrical and modern styles in a welcoming and encouraging environment. Over the years, the school has been a trailblazer in the region, becoming the first in the Lakeway Area to present a full-length production of The Nutcracker and later introducing audiences to Dracula: A Ballet with a Bite. Classes culminate each spring with a performance that showcases students’ growth and hard work throughout the year. Tuition varies based on class length, and performance fees are assessed per family. Instructor Roxanne Shepard leads the program, and detailed schedules and registration information can be found through the school’s website and social media platforms.

Traditional Appalachian culture comes alive through clogging classes offered by the Mo’Town Cloggers. Open to ages eight through adult, these classes provide a fun, energetic way to stay active while learning a beloved regional dance style. Pre-clog classes are also available for beginners. Sessions are held on Thursdays with multiple class levels offered throughout the evening. The cost is $40 for four weeks. More information is available at motowncloggers.com or by contacting instructor Heather Ehret at 423-967-8800 or motowncloggers@yahoo.com.

For something a little different, fencing classes meet weekly on Mondays at Prater Hall. Taught by instructor Bobby Messer, these sessions introduce students to the fundamentals of footwork, defense and swordplay rooted in English and Scottish traditions of the late 18th century. Classes begin at 6 p.m. and cost $10 per session. Interested participants can reach out at Freecompanyfencing@gmail.com for details.

Those looking to focus on fitness can also find weekly Sculpt and Tone classes led by Connie Ailey. These full-body workouts use repetition to improve strength, tone and overall muscle engagement. Classes meet on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 1 and cost $10 per session. Connie Ailey can be contacted at connieailey@gmail.com or 423-312-5777.

As winter lingers, these classes offer a reminder that creativity and movement are powerful tools for well-being. Whether you pick up a paintbrush, lace up dance shoes or try something completely new, Rose Center provides plenty of opportunities to stay inspired, energized and connected through the colder months.