Friday, January 18, 2008

Columbus Vistitors Enjoy Unforgettable Hands-On Creative Experiences

Travelers who visit Columbus now have unprecedented opportunities to tap into their inner artist through hands-on experiences in everything from fashion design to glass blowing. Columbus is rapidly gaining a reputation for arts, culinary and garden scenes that are ranked among the nation’s best. The city’s creative vibe has given rise to a new crop of entrepreneurs who offer visitors unique opportunities to become involved in the creative process. Participants will not only craft extraordinary memories; they also will leave with one-of-a-kind artistic reminders of their trip.

Blow glass: Glass Axis offers Columbus visitors an unusual opportunity to do much more than just observe the spectacular process of glassblowing. The non-profit organization’s “First Experience Workshops” allow even those with no experience to design and create their own unique piece of art. Gifted glass artists guide participants through the fascinating process of making everything from intricate ornaments to stunning vases and dazzling sculptures. Classes in hot, warm and cold glass processes are offered most Saturdays and should be scheduled at least one week in advance. Costs vary, depending on the project, but range from $25 to $125. Visitors can register by calling (614) 291-4250. Class schedules are found at glassaxis.org.

Design your own fashion T: Located in the Short North Arts District, the fashion-forward Columbus boutique, Substance, helps visitors put their own creative signature on a top-quality t-shirt. For just $29 per person, Substance offers monthly Design Lab Workshops, as well as custom sessions for any group of five or more -- offering the perfect addition to any girlfriends getaway. Travelers select a t-shirt from the wide Substance collection and then either embellish or batik their own designs with the guidance of Substance fashion designers. Visitors can schedule their fashion workshop by calling (614) 299-2910.

Make and label wine: Whether they’re into red wines or white, couples, groups of friends or even individuals can visit Camelot Cellars winery in the Short North to create their own wine reserve. Not only can visitors make several varieties of wine, but they can also design their very own wine label, featuring a favorite name, design, work of art or family photo. In addition, Camelot offers parties, wine tasting and retail sales of wine and wine-related gifts and accessories. Details are available at (614) 441-8860 or camelotcellars.com.

Create a container garden: The secret to a successful container garden is selecting the right collection of plants that not only look good together, but also will thrive together. The gardening specialists at Foertmeyer & Sons Greenhouse provide expert guidance while the visitor creates a container garden that is perfectly designed for the conditions at their home – inside or out-of-doors. Travelers can schedule a workshop by calling (740) 881-4237.

Vibrant and alive, Ohio’s capital city is known for its unique style: an uncommon blend of neighborhoods, events, attractions and accommodations. Free visitors guides, maps and complete information about visiting Columbus are available from Experience Columbus, the region’s convention and visitors bureau, by calling 1-866-EXP-COLS or ExperienceColumbus.com.

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