HOLLIS – Wild Salamander Creative Arts Center will open in May, featuring classes and workshops in fine arts, handicrafts, children’s art, music, movement, puppetry, storytelling and media arts.

Classes will be taught by local artisans and educators to ages 2 to 99-plus in all levels from the experienced artist to art students and those who claim, “I don’t have an artistic bone in my body.”

“Everyone is artistic in some way,” co-owner KC Morgan said. “Some people tie fishing flies. Some crochet beautiful scarves. Some grow gardens, then arrange the flowers. Puppetry, polymer clay sculpting, painting, doodling and computer anime are all forms of art. When children draw their first stick figures or play with building blocks, they are expressing creativity. This center meets the need for all levels of artists – those who exhibit in our gallery, the parent who wants two hours of escape and the child who wants to try everything.”

Creative thinking and problem-solving are skills that encourage emotional and educational growth, and this philosophy is the foundation for all classes offered. Some teachers will include Christopher Volpe, Anna Birch, Rick Freed, Alene Sirott-Cope, Kristine Brock, Cindy Dahlstrom and Sue Horwitz.

In addition to structured classes and workshops, staff will collaborate with home-school, Scout and other community groups to develop specific programs. Space is available for functions and birthday parties.

“We will work with you to make your event special and unique,” KC Morgan said.

Wild Salamander is housed in a historic farmhouse dating to 1891. Owners KC and Charlie Morgan have been Hollis residents since 1990, and their continued participation in the community, the arts and education come together in Wild Salamander.

KC has an extensive background in professional theater, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater management and design from Ohio University, and a master’s of education, creative arts in special education from Lesley University.

Charlie has more than 20 years experience in theatrical and exhibit design. His work can be seen at the Peterborough Players, the Boston Museum of Science, National Park visitor centers and on NESN (New England Sports Network).

KC and Charlie said they are excited to make the arts accessible to local communities.

“Our goal is to encourage rich experiences through training, exploration and creation. We provide space, opportunity and inspiration for a variety of contemporary and traditional art forms. We have created a comfortable environment where community members can learn and develop skills and abilities with the support of local artisans and educators,” the Morgans said.

For more information about programs and registration, visit www.wildsalamander.com or call 860-3771.