Pilates is a unique form of mind body exercise that focuses on strengthening the core muscles, the abdominals and the back.  The class incorporates the use of ankle and hand held weights to tone the legs and arms.

Dianne Daniels is an exercise physiologist.

Trace the history of the American artisanal cheese movement, see how it has played out in Maine and sample a curated selection of delicious Maine cheeses and dairy products.

Attendees will leave the class with a new appreciation for the cheese industry right here in our state, plus a product list and information about how to continue their cheese education and exploration. The price of your registration includes a beverage of your choice in the Tasting Room immediately following the class.

Instructor Eric Rector is a cheesemaker, Maine Cheese Guild member, and owner of Monroe Cheese Studio.

Please note: The location of this class has changed from what was printed in our brochure. The new location for this class is Great Salt Bay School in Damariscotta. 

From wildlife encounters to outdoor experiences to descriptions of plants and animals, we will use writing to express the wonder and grandeur of the natural world. Using a workshop format, we will write in class and share our writing with the group. The instructor will comment on finished pieces.

Whether you wish to write detailed accounts of nature or add accurate and inviting portrayals of nature to your fiction, this course will enable you to bring your reader along with you into the natural world.

Laurel Dodge has a master’s degree in environmental studies and has worked for nature centers, land trusts and a zoo. Her book, “Nature Study for the Whole Family” is designed to connect people to the natural world.

Your instructor, Chris Toy is the author of 6 popular cookbooks, a private chef, and has taught Asian-fusion cooking for several Maine community education programs. Cooking students will learn how to prepare a variety of recipes from Asia, Europe, and the Americas incorporating traditional and local ingredients. Each meal will actively engage cooks with the tools, techniques, and stories behind the dishes being created. Step back to a time when President Franklin Roosevelt, Eleanor, and their family escaped to their “beautiful little island” in the Canadian Maritimes, Campobello Island. We will be exclusive guests of the international park, staying in historic Victorian cottages. Workshop participants will explore and paint the same coastal scenery enjoyed by the summer residents at the turn of the 20th century. All meals are included in the workshop fee as well as specially planned optional evening activities designed to extend your learning from the day’s workshops. Register for the retreat then call Sherry Mitchell at 506-752-2922 to make room reservations. Only Acadian Arts Retreats participants will be allowed to reserve overnight accommodations in the park. 

Your instructor, Mary Laury is an accomplished watercolorist and highly esteemed teacher. She encourages all her students to believe they can be successful. Painting is an exciting medium; it flows and moves and does beautiful things. If you have never painted in watercolors, we will start at the beginning. If you have painted before, you will pick up some new tips and tricks as well. We all learn together! Step back to a time when President Franklin Roosevelt, Eleanor, and their family escaped to their “beautiful little island” in the Canadian Maritimes, Campobello Island. We will be exclusive guests of the international park, staying in historic Victorian cottages. Workshop participants will explore and paint the same coastal scenery enjoyed by the summer residents at the turn of the 20th century. All meals are included in the workshop fee as well as specially planned optional evening activities designed to extend your learning from the day’s workshops. Register for the retreat then call Sherry Mitchell at 506-752-2922 to make room reservations. Only Acadian Arts Retreats participants will be allowed to reserve overnight accommodations in the park.

Time to see how the sausages are made! In this 3 hour sausage-making class, participants will go over the basics of sausage making while preparing 2 different varieties with local ingredients.

You’ll get to practice all the steps - mixing spices, cutting pork, grinding, emulsifying, stuffing and packaging. We’ll even go over cooking techniques (while cooking them) and package the remaining sausages for you to take home. Each participant will leave class with 5 lbs of sausage.

The Router is the second most important power tool in any shop. It is also the most versatile. Learn the basic techniques of using this tool, some of the shop made jigs that make it do more, and what to look for when purchasing a router. No materials needed. 

Instructor Rick Gallion has been a professional woodworker for over thirty years and has taught many students the craft of woodworking. His shop is designed as a teaching facility. All classes will be held at the Clary Lake Woodworking School at 777 Gardiner Road (Hwy 126), Jefferson. Class size is limited. Safety glasses provided for each class.

Your instructor, Chris Toy is the author of 6 popular cookbooks, a private chef, and has taught Asian-fusion cooking for several Maine community education programs. Cooking students will learn how to prepare a variety of recipes from Asia, Europe, and the Americas incorporating traditional and local ingredients. Each meal will actively engage cooks with the tools, techniques, and stories behind the dishes being created. 

Retreat to The Willows, a beautiful Victorian home with architecture that echoes the rich tradition and elegance of the 1800s. For the painters, York Beach is just a short stroll to breathtaking views of the sand, surf, and rocks.There is a spacious dining room and gracious living room with comfortable seating for all participants to relax, socialize and make new friends. All meals are included in the workshop fee as well as specially planned optional evening activities designed to extend your learning from the day’s workshops. Day students are welcome. For special weekend accommodations call Chris at 207-653-3163 or email him at christoy.net@gmail.com.  This is an in-person retreat.

Comments from recent Acadian Arts Retreats participants: 

“I learned so much that Chris taught me, and the recipes were attainable.”  “We became extended family.”

COVID note: For everyone’s comfort and safety we suggest doing a COVID test 24 hours prior to arrival. We will be following CDC guidelines according to location and dates.