Firehouse Art Center - Norman, Oklahoma

Dr M. P.

The Firehouse Art Center has been investing in the community for decades, and they offer a myriad of creative opportunities for individuals of any skill level to take some time exploring the arts.

They are beginner-friendly, where people come for one class and then come back over and over again. They make friends in class and then take other courses together – it’s a great place to network with artistic people.

Through innovative programming, the Firehouse Art Center continuously reevaluates its course offerings to meet the community's interests. Glass and jewelry classes always fill quickly. However, the subject matter varies significantly from there.

A painting class may focus on landscapes, people, multimedia, animals, or abstract designs. Other offerings include photography, pottery, drawing, crocheting, sculpting, calligraphy, and paper arts. Classes are offered in four- and eight-week courses, with additional, shorter workshops usually on weekends.

Classes may be skill-level restricted, but most offer individuals of any interest or skill level the opportunity to start and try their hand at a new art. “It’s not about perfection; it’s about the process,” said Dr. Nikki Krumwiede, Programs Coordinator for the Firehouse Art Center. “Art allows individuals to learn a new skill, but they also get to express themselves in ways they might never have previously.”

Through courses, art exhibitions, and art events, community art centers allow individuals to make new friends, explore new skills at their own pace, and positively engage in their community.

“Investing in yourself expands what you believe is possible,” said Tricia Edwards, artist and international inner flow guide. “Whether learning a skill that fuels your imagination or flexing it through creative expression, you break free from rigid thinking and open doors to new opportunities. By strengthening your capacity for curiosity, imagination, and expression, you ‘unlimit your beliefs,’ your choices, and the life you never knew was possible.”

The Firehouse Art Center offers art courses and events for children and parents/children. They haven’t forgotten Fido and Fluffy, either, hosting events that feature and benefit pets. “We are a community resource,” said Dr. Krumwiede. “We welcome anyone to come by; pop your head in and see what is happening and how you can get involved. We love meeting new people and showing them around the Firehouse.”

For anyone ready to start giving back, the Firehouse Art Center offers several community investment opportunities. Individuals can volunteer for differently abled individuals in classes, at art events, or the Healing Studio. If a person is artistically inclined, they might want to teach a workshop; if the response to their workshop is positive, they might be asked to teach a course.

Other opportunities to get involved in community arts include Art Forces, a free program for veterans and active service members; Zoo Sketch, where individuals learn about drawing through sketching animals at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens; Equality Club, dedicated to promoting equality through the creative expression of visual arts; and Art After School, which offers a delightful array of creative courses for children of all ages.

A list of events and courses is available at the Firehouse Art Center, 444 South Flood Avenue in Norman, or at normanfirehouse.com.

John L.

So very impressive, the artwork on this building. A+! I always stop n admire n just absorbe the detailer you won't catch your first ten visits. And I've not even gone in yet! Thank You Firehouse!

Jason M.

This is an amazing facility to have in Norman. My son attended class with Jane Lawson and loved it. Highly recommend both Jane & the firehouse arts center.

birdburnett

Fantastic classes. Kiln-Formed Glass, Jewelry, Ceramics, Painting, Kids and Veteran programs. They've been around for over 50 years. Great gallery and exhibits.

Karla

My 7 year old absolutely loves the art classes here, especially Ms. Jane Lawson, her favorite teacher ❤ They have a beautiful gallery and shop! A gem of a place!

Cristina M.

Great gifts. Large shield around desk. The staff wear masks properly.

The kids programs are amazing and are following covid protocols

Dawn

Adult pottery was great here once. Hence the name The Firehouse. No more adult pottery classes offered. So sad and a tremendous loss for the Norman art loving community.

Stacy O.

Please update times open. We brought group to tour Firehouse Art Center and it was closed Thursday 10:30 am.