Unlocking Creativity in Watertown: Northern Prairie Arts Announces 2026 "CREATE" Class Lineup
- Steve Jurrens
- Feb 20
- 3 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - In a vibrant push to make the arts a regular fixture of local life, the Northern Prairie Arts (NPA) Watertown’s Art Council has officially unveiled its “CREATE 2026” spring curriculum. Representing the council in a live interview on Northeast Radio SD, Ralph Wamsher introduced a diverse slate of workshops ranging from the cutting edge of technology to time-honored manual crafts.
The announcement highlights the organization’s mission to foster creative networking and to promote regional artists in Northeast South Dakota.
AI as a “Creative Sidekick”
Leading the charge into the future is a unique course titled “A.I. ~ Your Unpredictable Writing Buddy,” scheduled for Saturday, February 28, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Hosted in the glass classroom at Lake Area Technical College (LATC), the Session will be led by prolific author Katie (KT) Webb.
Wamsher was quick to clarify that the course isn’t about letting software do the work. “It’s not having AI do your work for you,” Wamsher explained. “It’s how AI can be used as a tool—just another tool in your writing box.”
The hands-on class aims to show writers how to use artificial intelligence for brainstorming and promotional writing while keeping the author’s unique voice front and center. Participants are encouraged to bring their laptops to take advantage of the venue’s Wi-Fi.
Hands-On Tradition: Wood Carving 101
For those looking to step away from screens, the council is offering “Wood Carving 101” over three consecutive Tuesday nights: March 3, 10, and 17. Taught by Toronto-based artisan Steve Hunter, who has been carving since 1998, the course focuses on the “therapeutic” nature of the hobby.
“With all the crazy stuff going on in the world today, if you sit down with a piece of wood and a knife, everything goes away,” Wamsher noted, quoting the instructor. The class is beginner-friendly and includes a full personal carving kit for students to keep, featuring a high-quality knife and, crucially, a cut-resistant glove.“
"Bento” Twist on Spring Treats
The newest addition to the schedule is a Cake Decorating class on Saturday, March 28. The Session, titled “A Little Basket of Spring,” focuses on the “Bento Cake” trend—small, 4-inch vanilla cakes.
Designed for absolute beginners, the class covers:
· Filling, stacking, and crumb coating.
· Piping techniques to create a “basket weave” on the sides.
· Creating grass textures and chocolate egg nests on top.
“The only thing you need to bring is a smile and a positive attitude,” Wamsher said. “If you’re not a baker, don’t worry about it—we furnish the cake for each person.”
Community Support and Membership
The Northern Prairie Arts Council remains a community-funded entity, relying on memberships and donations to keep its programs accessible. Wamsher highlighted a two-tier pricing system where NPA members receive significant discounts on class fees.
Interested residents can find more information or register at northernprairiearts.org.
