“Experiences” has become a popular buzz word these days, and Art in the Loft is very much up on the trend.

In addition to its regularly scheduled visual and culinary arts classes, the Loft has come up with six unique experiences to offer the community from January through August.

“These isolated events are more than just a class,” said Executive Director Justin Christensen-Cooper. “We are actually partnering with other businesses so that we can create these experiences.”

The first experience on the calendar takes place later this month: Craft Beer 101 with Nick Bancroft. It will be followed by everything from self-defense, baking for kids and yoga to eating farm fresh foods and planting beautiful flower pots.

Craft Beer 101 – Jan. 18

A home brewer and beer enthusiast, Nick Bancroft has previously hosted a beer and food tasting workshop for the Loft, but this time around is expanding the subject matter to include a greater understanding of craft beers.

“This one dives into the craft beer experience,” Christensen-Cooper said. “What does it mean to go to a brewery or pub and have an IPA or English ale or stout beer? Plus there will be beer tastings.”

Participants will be able to enhance their appreciation of craft beer styles and be invited to partake. The also will learn to discern appearance, aroma and flavor profiles associated with the different styles.

Self Defense Training – Feb. 3

Spend a day with friends and master instructor Jacob Kuznicki learning practical self-defense techniques and situational awareness in a serious but controlled and friendly environment. Kuznicki has over 25 years of experience in martial arts, and has traveled as far as Memphis, Tenn., to teach at self-defense seminars. Lunch will be provided by Jimmy John’s.

Kids in the Kitchen – March 10

Denise Cooper, the culinary arts coordinator at the Loft, presents this imaginative and creative culinary experience geared towards ages 5-12.

Students will learn a series of recipes that are all themed to children’s classic books. Favorites include such titles as “If You Give a Mouse Brownie,” “Chicken Soup with Rice” and “Wednesday is Spaghetti Day.”

“This is a good introductory if parents haven’t yet signed their kids up for a culinary arts class at the Loft,” Christensen-Cooper said.

Netta’s Planting Party – May 12

This experience will be held at Netta’s Nursery in Posen, where participants will take part in a “funshop” of selecting flowers and then planting them into a beautiful pot to take home.

“This is a long-standing experience you normally can purchase through our Glamour and Gourmet fundraiser,” Christensen-Cooper said. “Now we are opening it up to the public as an experience.”

This party also includes a private tour of the nursery and a demonstration from Netta Taratuta to show the tips and techniques she employs in making her pots colorful, creative works of art.

Guests will enjoy a picnic greenhouse lunch provided by Connie Stephan of Connie’s Cafe.

The Lofty Lotus – June 16

This day begins with an introduction by Tiffany Lenau of Yoga Roots and Healing Arts on the practice of meditation to create a sense of inner peace and calm.

Yoga instruction will be provided by Lenau and Paige Trisko of Performance Locker, along with guided meditation and a sound healing session with Tibetan sound bowls and gongs.

After a break with refreshing beverages and tea, Melissa Tolan-Halleck will treat guests to an interactive cooking demonstration packed with helpful nutritional information.

Guests will share a cleansing and detoxifying meal before leaving with a refreshed spirit – as well as a gift of essential oils and tea to take home.

Presque Isle Farm – Aug. 12

Enjoy an authentic farm-to-table experience at Presque Isle Farms in Posen. This fun opportunity includes a private tour of the farm, nutritional education and a casual picnic.

“The light lunch will be prepared from everything that’s in season,” Christensen-Cooper said. “It’s a beautiful farm to see as well.”

As executive director, Christensen-Cooper encourages anyone interested in these experiences to go online at the Loft’s website, www.artintheloft.org and register. Classes are expected to fill up quickly.

For additional information on any of the classes, contact Art in the Loft at 356-4877.