Partnerships and Special Programs
2024 Partnerships
Arbutus Folk School partners with local agencies and nonprofits to offer hands-on art experiences for their clients and residents. Contributions by the agencies, community donations, sponsorships, and grants make these special programs possible, and ensure greater access to the arts for all.
Starting in the summer of 2024, public funding through Inspire Olympia has allowed us to subsidize the cost of partner workshops to a much greater extent than ever before! This funding makes programming more accessible to partnering agencies while paying our artists fairly for their work and providing participants with all needed supplies and materials for an in-depth craft experience.
Sample classes currently available to partners include ceramics, needle felting, knitting, and other crafts. If your clients are not able to attend a workshop on-site in our facilities, we will match you with programs that will work well in your own facilities.
If your agency is interested in partnering for a workshop in ceramics or fiber arts, complete this form and write “Partnership Request” in the section called “Additional Info.” For any questions about this program or to receive support in completing the form, please email us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org.
2023 Partnerships and Special Programs
BIPOC Ceramics Community supported by City of Olympia
Reduced-Cost Traditional Arts Workshops supported by Northwest Heritage Resources: Sámi Natural Dyes, Mariachi Music, and Haitian Cuisine
Spanish-Language Ceramics Classes supported by City of Olympia and Olympia Federal Savings
Free Community Arts Activity in partnership with the Puget Sound Estuarium
Ceramics Activity with the Low Income Housing Institute at Billy Frank Jr. Place
Cajun Fiddling for Families with Financial Need supported by City of Olympia
Free Arts Walk, Olympia Harbor Days, & South Sound Studio Tour Activities, Demos, and Displays
Woodworking Activity with Youth Delegates of the Kato Japan Sister City Program
Youth Craft Classes with Rosie’s Place and Haven House supported by City of Olympia
Free Music Workshops: Olympia Old-Time Music Festival
LGBTQ Woodworking Community supported by City of Olympia
Artist Talk and Ceramics Activity with Big Brothers Big Sisters
Free and Reduced-Cost Programs in partnership with Washington State Parks Folk & Traditional Arts Program: Quinault Legends and Cedar Bark Weaving, Warm Springs Wasco Beaded Buckskin Chokers, and Danish Folk Music
Reduced-Cost Boatbuilding Skills Class supported by Port of Olympia
Scholarships available on a rolling basis supported by community donors
