The next wave of creative arts and wellness classes for older adults are starting
soon at SBCC School of Extended Learning (photo: David Kafer)
October 16, 2025
Rediscover Your Creative Spark: Free Art Classes Connect Older Adults Through Shared Passion and Learning
SANTA BARBARA, CALIF. (Oct. 16, 2025) — This fall, SBCC School of Extended Learning invites older adults to discover or
rediscover their creative potential. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced
artist looking to refine your skills, the Older Adults Program offers expert instruction
in a welcoming environment, with free art classes designed specifically for adults
age 55 and over.
Two of the program’s exceptional eight-week courses are launching the week of October
20, with spots still available:
Painting in Acrylic for Older Adults (CRN #45692) begins Tuesday afternoon, October 21, at the Wake Campus. Led by Aaron
Baldon, who holds a Master of Fine Arts from Claremont Graduate University and professional
experience as an Art Director for Mattel, students will explore color theory, composition,
and design principles while creating vibrant individual paintings. The class runs
through December 9.
Printmaking like a Pro for Older Adults (CRN #4571) starts Wednesday evening, October 22, at the Schott Campus. Instructor
Curtis Taylor, who holds an MFA from California State University, Northridge, and
teaches printmaking at the university level, will guide students through various drypoint
printmaking processes in both intaglio and relief formats. This class continues through
December 10.
"Art classes offer older adults much more than technical skills," said Carola Smith,
Assistant Superintendent/Vice President, School of Extended Learning. "Every session
provides an opportunity for creative expression, social connection, and well-being.”
Beyond painting and printmaking, the Older Adults Program offers a rich variety of
creative and supportive classes in creative art, creative English, creative music,
creative theatre, wellness, and self-management.
With hundreds of free classes offered year-round, SBCC School of Extended Learning
provides opportunities for everyone in the community, from career development to parent
education to personal enrichment for the mind and body. The Older Adults Program is
the largest of the School of Extended Learning’s five noncredit programs.
Registration Information:
To register for classes, visit https://sel.sbcc.edu.
For help with registration, visit Schott or Wake Campus Welcome Centers during walk-in hours, or call (805) 683-8201.
For hours and more resources, go to https://sbcc.edu/extendedlearning/get-help.php.
Hablamos Español.
To register for classes, visit https://sel.sbcc.edu.
For help with registration, visit Schott or Wake Campus Welcome Centers during walk-in hours, or call (805) 683-8201.
For hours and more resources, go to https://sbcc.edu/extendedlearning/get-help.php.
Hablamos Español.