The North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement will offer a series of hands-on winter workshops on topics ranging from photography to cartooning. The courses, which are open to students of all ages and skills, will take place January through March at UNC Asheville's Reuter Center.

Professional photographer Wendy Newman will lead the “Family Photo Portrait” workshop from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23 and from 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 30. The workshop will focus on how to pose children and families for the ultimate portrait. Students will participate in demonstrations and photo shoots using live models. The second class will address the photos taken and challenges encountered during the shoot. Students should bring their own digital camera with which they have a basic familiarity. Cost for the workshop is $135.

Artist Jane Snyder will teach “Animal Portraits” from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5 and from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 6-7. The workshop will address the development of accurate drawing skills and rendering facial features, fur and feathers. Students will use a combination of mediums such as graphite, colored pencil, pen and ink, crayon and watercolor. All skill levels are welcome. Cost for the workshop is $175.

Professional cartoonist Bill LaRocque will teach “Cartooning Art for Children” for students ages 8-12. Participants may choose one of three offered class times, including 9:30-11 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20. This workshop will channel children’s natural interest and enjoyment into greater confidence in their abilities to express themselves through graphic arts. Art and drawing fundamentals are covered, and all skill levels are welcome. Students should bring a 5-by-9-inch white paper pad and a pencil with an eraser. Cost for the workshop is $25.

Writer and yoga instructor Fran Ross will lead “Writing from the Body” from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, March 6. The workshop will explore the connection between simple yoga and creative expression. Students will gain insight into how stretching and meditation can enhance the writing process. Previous writing experience is helpful, but not necessary. Students should bring writing materials, a yoga mat and comfortable workout clothes. Cost for the workshop is $50.

For more information, to register for the workshops, or to pay with credit card, call the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement at 828/251-6140.