Community education offers perfect classes for May 2026 enjoyment

A collage of May community education classes at Casper College includes Fundamentals of Backpacking, Garden Decor Ceramics, Colored Pencil Chinese Still Life, Whiskey and Western Art, and Backcountry Safety. (Casper College image)

Community education at Casper College is offering enriching classes for May enjoyment, including Fundamentals of Backpacking, Garden Decor Ceramics, Colored Pencil Chinese Still Life, Whiskey and Western Art, and Backcountry Safety.

“Let learning blossom this May and let curiosity thrive with our fun and engaging classes,” said Zhanna Gallegos, community education coordinator at Casper College.

Fundamentals of Backpacking will provide participants with the essentials of safe and enjoyable backcountry travel while experiencing the beauty of Wyoming’s wilderness firsthand as they learn the basics of trip planning, gear and food selection, responsible nature stewardship, and more. The class will include two lectures followed by a guided overnight backpacking trip into Curtis Gulch in La Bonte Canyon. Taught by Delina Dority, the two lectures will be held May 2 and 16 from 9-11 a.m. The two-day backpacking trip into Curtis Gulch will take place Saturday and Sunday, May 30-31. According to Dority, the class is ideal for beginners and anyone looking to refresh their skills.

Imagine sculpting a whimsical genome legion or cluster of petite mushroom figures to ignite a garden with a dose of charm. Students will learn how to do that in Garden Décor Ceramics, taught by Rachel Savage. The class will run on Mondays and Wednesdays, beginning May 4 through May 11, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. “Students will delve into fundamental hand-building techniques, including pinch pot, coil making, intricate assembly, and detailed carving as they unleash their creativity with colorful slips and glazes to bring their garden fantasy to life,” said Savage. All supplies will be provided, but students are encouraged to bring a sketch book, reference materials, and clay tools if desired. Garden Décor Ceramics is suitable for all levels.

Instructor Tiffany Adair will show students the art of colored pencil drawing in Colored Pencil Chinese Still Life Wednesdays, May 6-20, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Students will explore the basics of colored pencil techniques, including layering and shading, while discovering the history and symbolism of Chinese still life, according to Adair. Using reference photos, students will trace and color their chosen artwork to create a vibrant piece in what Adair calls an … “easygoing, fun class.” The class is suitable for all levels.

Whiskey and Western Art is an exciting class that combines sensory and creative adventures with the exploration of the rich worlds of whiskey and Western art. Attendees of this event, ages 21 and older, will discover how to taste and savor different varieties of whiskey while immersing themselves in the Nicolaysen Art Museum’s Western art collection, ranging from classic styles to bold modern interpretations, according to Gallegos. Light hors d’oeuvres and guided whiskey sampling are part of this unique class. Whiskey and Western Art will take place Thursday, May 14, from 6-7:30 p.m.

Finally, Backcountry Safety will show students how to plan a safe, enjoyable hike while discussing popular trails in the Casper area. The class, taught by Daniel Cooper, will review essential gear, basic first aid, and how to pack a first aid kit. Students will also learn how to avoid getting lost and find their way back by familiarizing themselves with the return route. The second class will allow students the chance to practice their skills outdoors. According to Cooper, the hiking location for the second class will be determined based on the weather. The first class will be held Friday, May 22, from 6-7:30 p.m., and the hike will take place Saturday, May 23, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Community education at Casper College offers noncredit courses for personal enrichment and lifelong learning for people 18 and older. Call 307-268-3401 or visit the community education site to learn more about community education classes.

At a Glance:

• Outdoor Adventures: Learn the essentials of wilderness travel in Fundamentals of Backpacking, with lectures on May 2 and 16, then take a backpacking trip on May 30–31; or prepare for local hikes with Backcountry Safety May 22–23.
• Creative Arts: Sculpt whimsical figures in Garden Décor Ceramics, May 4–11, or explore symbolism and technique in Colored Pencil Chinese Still Life, May 6–20.
• Cultural Experience: Sample whiskey varieties while viewing the Nicolaysen Art Museum’s Western art collection on May 14, ages 21+.
• How to Join: Registration is available by calling 307-268-3401 or by visiting the community education site.