Skip Navigation or Skip to Content
Return to Course Catalog

Lifelong Learning Experiences for the Curious Mind > Sort Classes by Category > View by Topic > Arts & Humanities

Arts & Humanities   

  • 012 | Encountering Extra-Terrestrials in Science Fiction Films  | Zoom
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Sep. 10, 17
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Butch Epps

    From Red Scare-inspired alien invasion movies of the 1950s to more friendly and sophisticated encounters in later years, this course will explore meditations on science and technology, religion and faith, alien and artificial intelligence, and more. Led by Butch Epps, film studies instructor with an MFA from UCLA's School of Film and Television, we navigate this subject at warp speed with the aid of pre-class film viewing, in-class PowerPoint analysis, lectures, and discussions of the following case studies. On week one, we will cover "The Day the Earth Stood Still" (the 1951 version) and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind"; week two covers "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "Contact." Rental streaming sources for the above pre-class viewing will be provided one week before the first class.

 

  • 013 | Awesome Sauces: A World of Flavors | In-Person
  • Fee: $40.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Sep. 11
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Chandler Innovation Center
    Room: Room 136
    Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa

    THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

    Sauces are often considered the pinnacle of a chef’s achievement, requiring study and practice to master. A great saucier must possess a discerning palate and the ability to build depth and harmony into each sauce. Today, global influences from Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the Mediterranean—combined with the public’s appetite for bold, diverse flavors—have taken sauces in many exciting directions, offering endless possibilities for preparation and pairing. In this class, explore the history of the world’s greatest sauces, learn the fundamentals of sauce making, and discover practical, everyday applications.

 

  • 014 | ASU Chandler Innovation Center Presents: Laser Cutting for Quilters  | In-Person
  • Fee: $35.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Sep. 11
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Chandler Innovation Center
    Room: Workshop
    Instructor: Brett Kennedy

    Learn the basics of operating a computer-controlled laser cutting machine to create geometric fabric quilting blocks. These machines use computer designs to precisely cut shapes that participants can sew together into a quilt. This class includes one hour of design and machine operation instruction, followed by 30 minutes of open cutting time to cut your fabric. Designs will be limited to basic geometric shapes—such as squares, rectangles, triangles, and other polygons—no larger than 18” x 24” per individual shape. Participants will leave with several laser-cut fabric pieces, each cut to the geometric design and size of their choice.

 

  • 015 | The Secrets of Stradivari & Other Great Makers  | In-Person
  • Fee: $40.00
    Day of Week: F
    Dates: Sep. 12
    Times: 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Musical Instrument Museum
    Room:
    Instructor: Dr. Matthew Zeller

    The violins of Antonio Stradivari and the guitars of Matteo Sellas have achieved near-mythological status. Join Dr. Matthew Zeller, MIM’s Curator for Europe, to explore what makes historical string instruments from the late Renaissance through the Baroque period so extraordinary. We’ll examine historical documents ranging from 15th-century lute-making instructions to architectural treatises by Italian masters. Diving into the technical aspects of violins and guitars, we’ll study the craftsmanship of Andrea Amati, Stradivari, and others. Students will even design their own string instruments in the style of the great masters. This 2.5-hour class includes a curator-led tour of MIM’s special exhibition "Stradivarius and the Golden Age of Violins and Guitars," along with a lecture and hands-on workshop.

 

  • 016 | The Nash Presents: The Life & Times of Miles Davis  | In-Person
  • Fee: $40.00
    Day of Week: Su M
    Dates: Sep. 15 (class) Sep. 21 (performance)
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: The Nash Jazz Club
    Room:
    Instructor: Clark Gibson

    Join jazz musician Clark Gibson for an unforgettable journey through the life and music of one of the most revolutionary figures in American music history—Miles Davis. Born in St. Louis, Miles wasn’t just a participant in the evolution of jazz—he led it. From the fiery complexity of bebop to the cool sophistication of West Coast jazz, and from the spacious beauty of modal jazz to the electric pulse of jazz fusion, Davis continually reshaped the sound of modern music over nearly five decades. Discover the genius behind the horn at the John Dawson Center for Jazz Education at The Nash, and experience the artistry that forever changed the face—and sound—of music. Then, on Sunday, Sep. 21 we will go to The Nash Jazz Club (110 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix) to see how these fundamentals in jazz improvisation work together at a live jam session featuring some of the top jazz musicians in the valley.

 

  • 017 | Exploring the Archaeology & Geography of the Hebrew Bible  | In-Person
  • Fee: $57.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Sep. 15, 22, 29
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sessions: 3
    Building: Tempe Public Library
    Room: Connections Program Room
    Instructor: Pastor Matthew Knopf

    Unroll a map, grab a pickaxe, and explore the land that set the stage for the Hebrew Bible. Come discover the physical remains—both natural and human-made—that correspond with the epic ancient stories of the Levant. We will examine archaeological sites and key artifacts that illuminate the world behind the Hebrew Bible.

 

  • 019 | Alexandre Dumas: The Real Count of Monte Cristo?  | In-Person
  • Fee: $14.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Sep. 16
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: ASU Health Futures Center
    Room: Conference Center - 169
    Instructor: Ken Sorensen

    For someone who wrote such extraordinary stories, how closely did fiction mirror reality? Alexandre Dumas lost his father at the age of four—a father who had been a celebrated, yet later forgotten, hero of the Napoleonic Wars. In many ways, the son’s vivid tales of adventure drew inspiration from his father's remarkable life. Join us as we explore the true identity behind "The Count of Monte Cristo." Discover the real figures who inspired "The Three Musketeers," and how their camaraderie came to embody the ideal of heroism. What kind of man was Dumas, who gave us some of the most enduring characters in literary history?

 

  • 021 | Here’s Looking at You: The Best of Alfred Hitchcock, Part Two  | Zoom
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: F
    Dates: Sep. 19, 26
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Jay Sherwin

    Alfred Hitchcock was always fascinated by voyeurism and the interplay between voyeurism and film watching. In this two-week online course—a follow-up to last spring's “Best of Hitchcock” course—we’ll consider four of Hitchcock’s best films and explore his obsession with people watching other people. Students should watch the films on their own; in class, we’ll view brief film clips and discuss key themes. Expect another lively trip into the mind of a brilliant, complicated man and the strange, disturbing world he created on film. (If you didn’t attend Part One, no worries—it’s not required for this course!)

 

  • 027 | Piper Distinguished Visiting Writers Series: Andrew Porter & Sally Wen Mao at Changing Hands  | In-Person
  • Fee: $0.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Sep. 25
    Times: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Changing Hands Bookstore
    Room:
    Instructor: Community Partner

    Presented by the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing at Arizona State University at Changing Hands Bookstore, OLLI members are invited to a special reading and conversation with noted novelist Andrew Porter and renowned poet and writer Sally Wen Mao. A recent review of Andrew Porter’s work appeared in The New York Times (“A Novel That Takes On Life’s Greatest Mystery: Our Parents,” April 15, 2025). Sally Wen Mao’s debut novel was recently featured in The Washington Post’s “11 Best Science Fiction and Fantasy Books of 2024.” Please join us for this special event to hear from these outstanding writers.

 

  • 030 | Fortunato Film School: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest  | Zoom
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: M Tu
    Dates: Sep. 29, 30
    Times: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Joe Fortunato

    Join “Fortunato Film School" where ASU film professor Joe Fortunato will screen, discuss, and provide live commentary on the 1970’s cinematic classic "One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest" – a Best Picture winner and one of the most honored films of all time! We will begin with a brief introduction on the background and making of the film. Then we will screen the film together with live commentary provided, giving you insights into the filmmaking process, fun facts, and some guidance on how to "read" a film creatively. After the film, we will discuss what we've learned and debate if it lives up to its "great film" reputation (and even discuss what that designation means in the subjective world of creative art).

 

  • 031 | Gen Z Speaks: Literature’s Newest Stars  | Zoom
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Oct. 1, 8
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Heather Ackerman

    Now entering their mid-twenties, many talented Gen Z authors are lifting their voices and carving out strong stances regarding their novel experiences and perspectives. As digital natives, they are acutely aware of how identity is negotiated between real circumstances and incomplete virtual performances. Gen Z authors often speak passionately about 21st-century crises, bringing their verve to issues like climate volatility and untenable social and economic systems. They have impressed audiences not only with what they say but also with how they say it: with clarity, conviction, freshness, and hypnotic beauty. In this two-week seminar, we will explore works by notable Gen Z authors—Amanda Gorman, Chloe Gong, Fatimah Asghar, among others—to examine the cultural provenance of this newest literary generation.

 

  • 037 | Global Middle Ages at the Metropolitan Museum of Art  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Oct. 6
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Chandler Innovation Center
    Room: 102
    Instructor: Dr. Markus Cruse

    The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York holds one of the world's greatest collections of art from the Middle Ages. These objects come from across the globe and tell the story of international trade and travel networks that shaped beliefs, cultures, and artistic practices wherever they reached. This course will examine some of the most spectacular examples of global contact, including a seventh-century Chinese vase in the shape of a Greco-Roman amphora, Chinese lions carved on a twelfth-century capital in a Catalonian monastery, and a Chinese sword depicted on the thirteenth-century tomb of a French knight. Through these and other works, we will explore the often surprising long-distance contacts of the Middle Ages—and how they shaped both art and history.

 

  • 038 | Media, Music & Counterculture in 20th Century America  | Zoom
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Oct. 6, 13
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: James Pagliasotti

    We went from Top 40 rock ’n’ roll as kids to the Classic Era of Rock Music as we were coming of age. Society was in upheaval, and the counterculture was becoming the dominant popular culture of the time. How did it happen, and why did it matter? Join music and culture author James Pagliasotti, who previously worked as the first ever rock music critic for The Denver Post, as we encounter Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, and many other great artists, and tour twice with the Rolling Stones. We experienced a fascinating, intensely creative period that permanently changed the music business and shaped a generation.

 

  • 045 | Color, Color Schemes, & Composition with Fruit  | In-Person
  • Fee: $76.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sessions: 4
    Building: Tempe Public Library
    Room: Connections Program Room
    Instructor: Allen Reamer

    Create a successful painting every time! Art tells a story, expresses an emotion—or both. By using a variety of compositional elements, colors, and color schemes, you can express any feeling with any subject. In this class, taught by Allen Reamer, a longtime art history and art studio teacher, we will work with a variety of pieces of fruit. We'll take a step-by-step approach, exploring the options and decisions involved in planning and producing a successful work of art. You may use acrylics, watercolor, gouache, pastel, and/or colored pencils.

 

  • 046 | The Clay Connection Project: Foundations, Clay, & Connection  | In-Person
  • Fee: $10.00
    Day of Week: Sa
    Dates: Oct. 11
    Times: 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: ASU Tempe - School of Art
    Room: 426
    Instructor: Allie Thurgood

    Join OLLI Intergenerational Scholar Allie Thurgood, ASU School of Art MA candidate, for a hands-on, heart-centered workshop where creativity and connection come together. This intergenerational class introduces participants to the basic techniques of hand-building with clay, pinching, coiling, and slab work, while weaving in meaningful dialogue and storytelling. Each participant will create a symbolic clay object that represents a personal value or memory. Then, paired with a partner, they'll work together to co-create a second piece to reflect their conversation and themes that emerge. Rooted in community building and intergenerational exchange, this workshop emphasizes both the technical fundamentals of ceramics and the power of shared experiences. No prior clay experience necessary! Just bring your hands, your stories, and your curiosity.

 

  • 052 | Contemporary Art Adventures: From Helsinki to Tallinn  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Oct. 16
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Tempe Public Library
    Room: Connections Program Room
    Instructor: Dr. Kelly Nelson

    Join Dr. Kelly Nelson—proudly 50% Finnish-American—for a lively, illustrated exploration of the vibrant contemporary art scene in Helsinki. This 2025 tour includes highlights from the Helsinki Biennial, visits to three standout art museums, and a look at some of the city’s striking new architecture that blends innovation with Nordic design traditions. From there, Dr. Nelson hops across the Gulf of Finland to Tallinn, Estonia, where she covers a few contemporary art gems tucked within this historic Baltic capital.

 

  • 054 | The Essence of Ballet & "Sleeping Beauty" | In-Person
  • Fee: $95.00
    Day of Week: F Sa
    Dates: Oct. 17 (class), Oct. 25 (performance)
    Times: 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Ballet Arizona
    Room:
    Instructor: Claire Schmaltz

    THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

    Join us for a look behind the seemingly perfect world of a ballet dancer. Discover the latest evolution of this 400-year-old art form and witness the sweat, joy, and frustration of in-studio rehearsals. Then, reconnect with the dancers a week later and see the fruits of their perseverance and determination when they perform live at Symphony Hall in Downtown Phoenix: Sleeping Beauty. The cost of the class includes tickets to the show on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Accessible seating and other seating requests can be arranged in advance with Claire and our OLLI coordinator.

 

  • 058 | Graceful Exits: Exploring the Economics, Ethics, & Ethos of Death with Dignity | Osher Online  | Zoom
  • Fee: $95.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Oct. 20, 27 & Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24
    Times: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Aleen Bayard

    This course explores the complex issue of Death with Dignity, also known as assisted suicide, through its historical development, ethical debates, legal frameworks, and cultural perspectives. The movement gained national attention through the advocacy of Dr. Jack Kevorkian, sparking widespread discussion on end-of-life choices. Participants will critically examine evolving policies on physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia while engaging in thoughtful discussions on this sensitive and often controversial topic. Designed to educate and foster awareness, this course provides a comprehensive look at the ethical and legal dimensions of end-of-life decision-making. Please note that you will need to create a free account with NRC to access the meeting link and any course materials.

 

  • 061 | Diego Rivera & Frieda Kahlo: Their Art & Lives  | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Oct. 21, 28
    Times: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Mesa Arts Center
    Room: Dobson Lecture Hall
    Instructor: Allen Reamer

    Diego Rivera is often best known today as the husband of Frida Kahlo. However, during his life, he was an internationally famous artist born and raised in Mexico. You will learn how he and his friends developed a new art style, with examples provided. Rivera was especially renowned for his murals and had tumultuous relationships with several women. We will begin with his birth and early art and continue until we run out of time, discussing some of his works in detail. Frida Kahlo was born in Mexico and endured many difficult events in her life, including childhood polio, a serious bus accident, a long recovery, and several miscarriages. She used these experiences, along with personal symbolism and Surrealism, to express her suffering through her work.

 

  • 068 | Travel & Pop Culture: Places Featured in Your Favorite Movies & TV Shows  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Oct. 27
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: ASU Health Futures Center
    Room: Conference Center - 173B
    Instructor: Dan Fellner

    From "Jaws" to "The Graduate," "James Bond" to "The Birds," "Midnight Express" to "Breaking Bad," take a journey with a leading travel journalist to explore the places around the world where some of the most iconic movies and TV series were filmed. We’ll also visit the childhood haunts of Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Buddy Holly, and learn about a British pop star’s surprising connection to the Alamo.

 

  • 069 | The Magic of Motown | Osher Online | Zoom
  • Fee: $95.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Oct. 28 & Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25 & Dec. 2
    Times: 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Michael Agron

    THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

    Explore Motown’s golden era from the late 1950s to the 1970s, a period marked by groundbreaking songwriting, iconic artists, and profound social influence. Discover how Motown’s innovative production methods shaped its timeless sound, broke racial barriers, and adapted to shifting cultural landscapes to achieve worldwide acclaim. Featuring legendary artists and curated tracks and videos, this course concludes with a celebration of Motown’s transformative first 25 years. Join us to experience the enduring magic of Motown and its lasting impact on music and culture. Please note that you will need to create a free account with NRC to access the meeting link and any course materials.

 

  • 072 | When Ideas Became Art: The Revolution in Modern Art & Music  | Zoom
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Oct. 30, Nov. 6
    Times: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Deborah Robin

    When photography arrived in the 1800s, artists faced a challenge: cameras could capture realistic images faster than paint. This technological revolution freed artists to pursue questions beyond mere representation, ultimately challenging the very idea of “What is art?” We will examine how both visual artists and musicians throughout the 20th century responded by creating revolutionary works in which ideas became more important than traditional techniques or finished products. From Duchamp’s ready-mades to John Cage’s experimental compositions, these conceptual works once puzzled audiences but now fill our most prestigious museums and concert halls. Join us to discover these fascinating ideas that have transformed modern art and music.

 

  • 073 | Exploring the Masters of Jazz: Bossa Nova  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Oct. 30
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: ASU Health Futures Center
    Room: Conference Center - 173B
    Instructor: Jeffrey Libman

    Emerging in Brazil in the 1950s and garnering worldwide fame in the 1960s, bossa nova combined samba and American jazz to become a style all its own. Replete with poetic lyrics, memorable melodies, rich harmonies, and quiet intimacy, bossa nova songs possess both beauty and depth. Come learn about the music of Luiz Bonfá, Antônio Carlos Jobim, Astrud and João Gilberto, and more. This class, taught by ASU's Dr. Jeffrey Libman, is intended for jazz aficionados as well as those who simply want to learn more about jazz—no instruments required! The class will consist primarily of active listening to exemplary recordings, with guided discussion interspersed throughout.

 

  • 075 | Scandals & Controversies in Rock & Pop Music  | Zoom
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Oct. 30 & Nov. 6
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Emanuel Abramovits

    Music has always been a source of controversy and scandal. In the search for originality, some artists push the envelope too far—sometimes paying the price, other times using the backlash for self-promotion. There have been fascinating episodes of plagiarism, cultural appropriation, and clashes involving race and sexuality. New technologies are increasingly isolating listeners from the world around them, and artificial intelligence is arriving with a host of tough challenges. This class is full of stories and anecdotes involving The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Peter Frampton, The Rolling Stones, Coldplay, and more!

 

  • 079 | ASU Chandler Innovation Center Presents: Laser Cutting for Quilters  | In-Person
  • Fee: $35.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Nov. 4
    Times: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Chandler Innovation Center
    Room: Workshop
    Instructor: Brett Kennedy

    Learn the basics of operating a computer-controlled laser cutting machine to create geometric fabric quilting blocks. These machines use computer designs to precisely cut shapes that participants can sew together into a quilt. This class includes one hour of design and machine operation instruction, followed by 30 minutes of open cutting time to cut your fabric. Designs will be limited to basic geometric shapes—such as squares, rectangles, triangles, and other polygons—no larger than 18” x 24” per individual shape. Participants will leave with several laser-cut fabric pieces, each cut to the geometric design and size of their choice.

 

  • 082 | Dutch Masters: Realism & Republic in the Golden Age  | In-Person
  • Fee: $57.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Nov. 5, 12, 19
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sessions: 3
    Building: ASU Health Futures Center
    Room: Conference Center - 173B
    Instructor: Allen Reamer

    This class will explore the Dutch ‘Golden Age’ of painting, spanning from 1585 to 1717. We will examine how Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals, Steen, and other Dutch painters portrayed their land and society with a strong concern for realism. OLLI at ASU Legacy instructor Allen Reamer will highlight how artists and buyers preferred specific themes or subjects, and how these choices reflect the values of the Dutch Republic and its people.

 

  • 085 | "Aunty Lee’s Delights": Cozy Mysteries in Modern-Day Singapore  | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Nov. 10, 17
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Tempe Public Library
    Room: Connections Program Room
    Instructor: Dr. Derek Pacheco

    First in a series of cozy mysteries set in modern-day Singapore, this fun and accessible book follows “Aunty” Rosy Lee—a “kaypoh” (busybody) widow, restaurateur, and amateur detective—who serves up mouth-watering dishes in her café while solving local crimes on the side. When a tourist’s body washes up on the beautiful beach of Sentosa, Aunty Lee is on the case, doling out advice alongside the secrets of Peranakan cooking in equal measure. Yu’s novel tackles important themes such as family, aging, love, and tolerance while providing a complex portrayal of the Southeast Asian island nation, where “money flows freely and people of many religions and ethnicities co-exist peacefully, but where tensions lurk just below the surface.” Students will obtain their own copy of Aunty Lee’s Delights (2013) by Ovidia Yu, available in paperback, Kindle, and Audible editions.

 

  • 087 | Imprisoned Minds: Lost Boys, Trapped Men & Solutions from Within the Prison  | Zoom
  • Fee: $30.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Nov. 12
    Times: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Kevin Wright, Erik Maloney

    Imprisoned Minds tells the stories of men in prison—stories few people ever hear. Authors Erik Maloney and Kevin Wright, through personal narratives and expert analysis, reveal how unimaginable childhood trauma and neglect can set young men on a path toward prison or even death. Erik is currently incarcerated, serving a life sentence, and Kevin is a criminologist at Arizona State University. Together, their goal in writing this book is to humanize people behind bars, offer practical solutions, and show that a more effective approach to criminal justice is possible. Join them as they lead this class virtually—from prison—and explore the thought-provoking question: might there be an imprisoned mind in all of us?

 

  • 089 | The Westerns of Clint Eastwood  | In-Person
  • Fee: $35.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Nov. 13
    Times: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West
    Room:
    Instructor: Dr. Andrew Nelson

    Clint Eastwood is one of the most iconic figures in American film—and one of the Western genre’s most influential artists. Over a remarkable seven-decade career, Eastwood has brought to life some of the Western’s most memorable characters, from the mysterious “Man with No Name” in Sergio Leone’s Dollars Trilogy to his Oscar-winning role in Unforgiven. Join Western Spirit Chief Curator and film historian Andrew Patrick Nelson for an exploration of Eastwood’s Westerns—from "Rawhide" to "Cry Macho," including "Hang 'Em High," "High Plains Drifter," "The Outlaw Josey Wales," "Pale Rider," and more. Through selected clips and expert commentary, we’ll trace Eastwood’s evolving relationship with the genre and uncover new insights into his enduring legacy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this class offers a rich look at how Eastwood kept the Western alive—and how the Western helped shape Clint Eastwood.

 

  • 090 | Inside Arcosanti: Architecture, Archives, & Ecological Vision  | In-Person
  • Fee: $75.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Nov. 13
    Times: 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Arcosanti
    Room:
    Instructor: Sue Kirsch

    In this class, participants will take two guided tours offering a deeper understanding of Arcosanti’s unique fusion of architecture and ecology. The first tour explores the property’s key structures—including the Vaults, Ceramics Apse, and Bronze Foundry—while introducing Paolo Soleri’s concept of “Arcology,” which blends sustainable design with community living. The second tour dives into the creative mind of Soleri through a close look at original models, drawings, sketchbooks, and photographs. This behind-the-scenes visit to the Archives offers rare insight into the evolution of Soleri’s ideas and the history of the project. Together, these tours provide a rich and engaging overview of Arcosanti’s architectural vision, historical roots, and ongoing cultural significance. Please note that the property tour route includes some stairs/uneven pathways. It can be made somewhat more accessible, but not completely. There will be a lot of walking. Lunch can be ordered in advance from Arcosanti or you can bring your own! Museum Admission is included for the day.

 

  • 091 | Viva Italia! The Culture, History, & Heart of Italy  | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: F
    Dates: Nov. 14, 21
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Jennifer Adams

    This class offers an engaging introduction to Italy’s fascinating history, culture, art, and food. Led by Jennifer Adams, Ph.D., Instructor of Italian in ASU’s School of International Letters and Cultures, we will tour the country’s regions and highlight their exceptional culinary traditions, explore the basics of Italian art and architecture, and discover how to live the dolce vita like a true Italian. The course also includes short, practical lessons in basic Italian words and phrases useful for travel, dining, and cultural interaction.

 

  • 095 | The Tracks of My Tears: A Music-Based Memoir  | In-Person
  • Fee: $24.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Nov. 18
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Peoria Sports Complex
    Room: Colonnade
    Instructor: Doug Bradley

    Doug Bradley played basketball with the Miracles, shared a joint with Grace Slick, and held Dionne Warwick’s hand as he told her that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had been assassinated. He watched his doo-wop–singing brother and World War II veteran father clash over the birth of rock and roll, brought the music of Stax and Motown to a small college in the hills of West Virginia, and soaked in the sounds of CCR, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix as an Army journalist in the “air-conditioned jungle” of Vietnam. In his latest book, "The Tracks of My Years: A Music-Based Memoir," the acclaimed co-author of Rolling Stone’s 2015 music book of the year tells the story of a life lived through—and shaped by—music. The Tracks of My Years is for anyone who grew up in post–World War II America, and for their children and grandchildren trying to see beyond the haze of myths surrounding the Baby Boomer generation.

 

  • 097 | A Popular Music Fan's Guide to Classical Music  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Nov. 20
    Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Surprise Regional Library
    Room: Program Room
    Instructor: John Yaeger

    Join us for an engaging session with retired music educator John Yaeger, where you’ll explore various periods in music history and develop a greater appreciation for classical music—without the pretentiousness! You’ll discover that classical music is much more than just long violin pieces or three-hour operas in foreign languages. We'll focus on works that are closer in length to popular songs, featuring catchy melodies—both instrumental and vocal—composed by the great masters.

 

  • 101 | Science in Shakespeare's World  | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Nov. 25 & Dec. 2
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Friendship Village
    Room: Skirm Room
    Instructor: Dr. Johnnie Hendrickson

    Shakespeare lived during the Scientific Revolution, a time of rapid advancement in scientific understanding. For the first time, academics were writing in English rather than Latin, making these revolutionary ideas accessible to the average educated person—Shakespeare among them. From hidden praise for Galileo in Cymbeline to the possibility that one of his plays serves as an allegory for the shift toward heliocentrism, Shakespeare’s work reveals a deep awareness of contemporary science. This class is designed for lovers of both literature and science!

 

  • 102 | Fortunato Film School: "Casablanca"  | Zoom
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: M Tu
    Dates: Dec. 1, 2
    Times: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Joe Fortunato

    Why is Casablanca considered one of the most iconic films of all time—and does it still deserve that title? Join ASU film professor Joe Fortunato for an in-depth exploration of the 1942 classic starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. We will begin with a brief introduction to the film’s historical and production background, followed by a screening of the film accompanied by live commentary from Professor Fortunato. As you watch, you’ll gain behind-the-scenes insights, learn about cinematic techniques, and discover how to interpret film like a critic or scholar. After the screening, the discussion continues: what makes a film “beloved,” and does Casablanca hold up through a modern lens? Like a book club for movie lovers, this class invites you to watch and reflect!

 

  • 105 | Poetry as Medicine: An Undergraduate-Led Dialogue on Aging & Healing  | In-Person
  • Fee: $0.00
    Day of Week: Tu Th
    Dates: Dec. 2, 4
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Tempe Public Library
    Room: Connections Program Room
    Instructor: Dr. Rosemarie Dombrowski

    Current students from Dr. Rosemarie Dombrowski’s Medical Humanities course at ASU (HON 394 Poetry & Medicine) will lead this intergenerational session exploring the efficacy of reading and writing poetry as a means of navigating aging, illness, and loss, while promoting wellness and healing. Students will share excerpts from studies, lead discussions of selected poems, and engage attendees in short reflective writing exercises.

 

  • 106 | Celebrating the Music & Magic of Jimmy Buffett  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Dec. 2
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Peoria Rio Vista
    Room: East & West Brook Room
    Instructor: Dr. Suzanne Hetts

    Jimmy Buffett has been called a modern-day Mark Twain and a self-proclaimed “cultural infidel.” His legions of dedicated fans—aka Parrotheads—were devastated by his death on September 1, 2023. His final message to fans and family was to “keep the party going,” and his Coral Reefer Band, joined by other well-known musician friends, is doing exactly that. This presentation will explore Buffett’s life and 50-plus-year career, highlight key milestones, examine the reasons behind his enduring popularity, and have some fun along the way—listening and even dancing to the music. Buffett often said he was selling escapism and likened himself to a court jester, but we would argue that his appeal is much broader and more profound. Come prepared to share your thoughts, experiences, and questions. If you have content you’d like to see included in the presentation, send links to: kschne20@asu.edu. Parrothead attire is encouraged, but not required!

 

  • 108 | The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair & the Birth of Modern American Culture  | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Dec. 2, 9
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Mesa Arts Center
    Room: Dobson Lecture Hall
    Instructor: Dr. Stephen Siek

    Some 27 million visitors prepared for the twentieth century by attending the World’s Columbian Exposition, which once occupied nearly 700 acres on Chicago’s South Side. Most had never even seen a light bulb, yet they were suddenly greeted with more electric lights than were then in use in the entire city of Chicago. The Fair was a striking blend of the palatial and the modern: its Greco-Roman buildings evoked Renaissance grandeur, while the visionary architecture of Louis Sullivan hinted at the future. Elegant concert halls—where thousands heard Handel’s Messiah—were complemented by the music of John Philip Sousa and Scott Joplin. This course will revisit the architecture, art, and music of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

 

  • 109 | Painting in the Style of Dutch Baroque Still-Life Painters  | In-Person
  • Fee: $48.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Dec. 3, 10
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: ASU Health Futures Center
    Room: Conference Center - 169
    Instructor: Allen Reamer

    Dutch still-life painters were renowned for showcasing their skill in rendering textures and surfaces with detailed, realistic light effects. Their still-life paintings often featured various types of food artfully arranged on tables alongside silverware, pots, and dishes. They employed specific paints, pigments, and techniques to achieve these effects. In this class, we will explore these techniques and study the work of notable Dutch Baroque still-life painters. You will also have the opportunity to create one or more paintings reflecting the style and characteristics of these artists. This is a studio art class. A materials list will be provided before the start of class.

 

  • 112 | Dickens & His Ghosts  | In-Person
  • Fee: $50.00
    Day of Week: Su Th
    Dates: Dec. 4 (class)
    Dec. 7 (show)
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: TheaterWorks
    Room:
    Instructor: Community Partner

    This lecture offers an in-depth exploration of Charles Dickens’ beloved novella A Christmas Carol, with a particular focus on the symbolic roles of the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, and how they contribute to Ebenezer Scrooge’s personal transformation. The lecture also examines the theatrical interpretation of the story, highlighting the TheatreWorks stage production through discussion of set and costume design, thematic emphasis, and the creative elements that bring the magic of Dickens' world to life. This session is ideal for those interested in literature, theatre, and the ways classic texts are adapted for the stage. Class includes a ticket to the 2:00 p.m. showing of A Christmas Carol on Sunday, December 7.

 

  • Let’s ‘Listen to the Music’ Together - SIG  | In-Person
  • Dates: Sep. 25
    Times: 4:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    Facilitator: Jo Ellen Alberhasky

    Calling all music lovers! Like to hear live music in all kinds of venues – big, small, local talent, world acclaimed, club or MIM acoustic; interested in all kinds of music or maybe jazz is your groove; craving a little education or trivia on your favorite vocalist – this SIG is for you. We will meet 1-2 times a month to find some music activity that ‘rocks’ your soul. This SIG is for those folks who are tired of going to concerts alone, love to swap tips on where to find great music, or just want more music in their life! he first meeting will start at 4:30 at the Vig, 10199 E Bell Road, at the SW corner of Bell and Thompson Peak Road, to plan a schedule. The music begins at 6:30!

    Fees for this SIG will vary based on event. All fees to be paid by member at event.

 

  • OLLI Share 02 | Women Artists Who Challenged Norms  | Zoom
  • Fee: $60.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Sep. 10, 17, 24 & Oct. 1
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 4
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Dolores Mitchell, Chico State OLLI

    Through lectures, videos, and discussions, we will focus on four women artists who challenged expectations of their time about their behavior and approach to subjects: Artemisia Gentileschi, Rosa Bonheur, Kathe Kollwitz, and Frida Kahlo. Additional artists will be included. Participants will receive emails with something to read, something to watch, and something to do in advance of each class meeting.

 

  • OLLI Share 03 | Arts of Zen Buddhism  | Zoom
  • Fee: $135.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Sep. 11, 18, 25, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 9
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Chico State OLLI, Dr. Katherine Harper

    This class examines the precepts of Buddhism in general and of the Chan/Zen branch of Buddhism specifically. We will explore major examples of art and architecture related to Zen. A primary goal of the class is to examine the historical context for the development of the Zen arts; therefore, an examination of the social, religious, political, and cultural influences on the production of art and architecture will be important. In addition, we will consider the fundamental teachings of Buddhism and meditation as a means for developing thoughtful and humane interactions in contemporary life. Please take care of time zone changes towards the end of this course due to shifts in Daylight Saving time as this class meets from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. in PST.

 

  • OLLI Share 04 | Intro to Drawing & Painting on the iPad  | Zoom
  • Fee: $60.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Sep. 30, Oct. 7, 14, 21
    Times: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    Sessions: 4
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Chico State OLLI, Dr. Cris Guenter

    This class will provide basic skills for drawing and painting on the iPad. We will navigate three digital art apps, explore techniques for creating digital drawings and paintings, practice using layers, and experience how to export completed digital images for printing. The apps featured in this class are Freeform, Sketchbook, and ArtRage Vitae Mobile Painting.

 

  • OLLI Share 05 | Chico State Faculty Lecture Series  | Zoom
  • Fee: $90.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Chico State OLLI, Dr. Sandra Flake

    Chico State's tradition of academic excellence goes back more than 130 years. With over 850 faculty members and 13,000 students, the University's teaching and learning community is thriving. Discover the imagination, cutting-edge research, and expertise that flourishes in our own backyard! Please take care of time zone changes towards the end of this course due to shifts in Daylight Saving time as this class meets from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. in PST.

 

  • OLLI Share 06 | Intro to One-Point & Two-Point Perspective Drawing  | Zoom
  • Fee: $30.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Oct. 28, Nov. 4
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Chico State OLLI, Dr. Cris Guenter

    This class offers a hands-on introduction to one-point and two-point perspective drawing, techniques that create the illusion of depth on a flat surface by using converging lines. The first session focuses on one-point perspective, while the second session covers two-point perspective. Please take care of time zone changes towards the end of this course due to shifts in Daylight Saving time as this class meets from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. in PST.

 

  • OLLI Share 07 | The Music of J.S. Bach: The Christmas Oratorio  | Zoom
  • Fee: $90.00
    Day of Week: F
    Dates: Sep. 19, 26, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24
    Times: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Peggy Evans

    This is the fourth in a series of courses on the music of J.S. Bach, this time focusing on the Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248, which is made up of six cantatas originally meant to be performed on six feast days in the Christmas season. The class will examine Bach’s church music and the cantata form as well as general characteristics of the Baroque period. We’ll watch a recording of each cantata. No previous musical experience is necessary. PowerPoint with YouTube examples will be used.

 

  • OLLI Share 16 | Life & Music of Pyotr Tchaikovsky  | Zoom
  • Fee: $120.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Sep. 18, 25 & Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 & Nov. 6
    Times: 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Lee Kaufman

    Tchaikovsky is one of the best-known classical music composers in the world. In western cultures, his name is known not only by classical music aficionados, but also by people who are not as familiar with the genre. He excelled in the business of entertaining people. Even he was tickled with his own catalog of work. While Tchaikovsky was admittedly a psychologically troubled individual, he did not let it get in the way of his amazing output. His music was genuine and unique. There is much to be learned about him, not to mention the wide scope of his music.

 

  • Pen & Paper Writer's Circle - SIG  | In-Person
  • Dates: Sep. 2
    Times: 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
    Facilitator: Carol Kubota

    If you’re passionate about creating fiction, memoirs, journalism, travel writing, poetry, or nonfiction, this is the group for you! Open to all writers from beginner to experienced, we’ll offer a platform for growth, discussion, collaboration, and connection with other OLLI students. The group will meet via Zoom, once a month through the end of the semester. Additional information about our first meeting will be sent to registered members. Subsequent meeting dates/times/places to be discussed at first meeting.

    There is no fee for this SIG

 

Some Title



Your Cart

×