Classes in Decorah
Lifelong Learning Class Information
Most classes and programs are held at Vesterheim’s Westby-Torgerson Education Center, 502 W. Water Street, in Decorah. The center houses classrooms, a workshop, the Folk-art Supply Shop, a student lounge, the Fladager Reference Library, an exhibition gallery, and offices. Most classrooms and other facilities in this building are accessible by elevator or ramp. If you have questions or concerns about accessibility, please ask.
Students are invited to study the museum’s collection and make use of the Fladager Reference Library. Classes may arrange for specialized tours given by the museum’s curatorial staff of collections storage and the Bauder-Landsgard Collections Study Center. People enrolled in a class are welcome to tour the museum at no cost during the time their class is in session. All of these services are included in the tuition price.
Before each class begins, all students will receive supply lists and handouts from the instructor, a detailed class schedule, and a list of any special equipment needed for the class. The supply list may include a materials fee for specific items required for the class. Some tools are available for rent. Students might want to bring additional equipment for their own personal needs, such as a swinging corner lamp for extra lighting, or a small seat cushion. Class instruction is typically held throughout the mornings and afternoons, unless otherwise noted in the class description. Some classes allow for extra work time in the evenings.
All Vesterheim classes are
limited in size to assure a quality learning experience. All classes,
except mini-classes and special programs, require
a $50 deposit to register. Full tuition is due 30 days prior to the
class starting date. A minimum number of registered students is required
for
a class to be held. We must meet our minimum number 30 days before
class. If Vesterheim cancels a class due to insufficient registration, a
full
refund
will be made, or students may transfer funds to another class offered
the same year. If a student wishes to cancel enrollment, a 30-day
notice in
writing (e-mail is acceptable) is required for a full refund, less
a $25 handling fee. Students withdrawing 29 days or less prior to the
start
date of a class will receive no refund.
Payment can be made by VISA, MasterCard, Discover, American Express,
personal check, cash, or postal money order. Payments from outside
the United States
must be made in U. S. funds. Make all checks payable to Vesterheim.
All restrictions apply.
Vesterheim does not allow videotaping during classes. Vesterheim is not responsible for the security of property belonging to students and instructors. Smoking is not permitted inside any building at Vesterheim Museum. Alcohol is not permitted in classrooms and workshops. The use of illegal drugs is prohibited.
Housing and Food
Students must make their own housing and dining arrangements.
For information about Decorah's housing and food options check with the Decorah Area Chamber.
If you have trouble finding housing, please call Vesterheim at (563) 382-9681 for assistance. There may be other options for accommodations in the area, including private housing. A variety of moderately priced restaurants are within walking distance. The Westby-Torgerson Education Center has a student lounge located on the third floor. Facilities include a refrigerator, microwave, stove, sink, coffee maker, pop machine, and tables and chairs.