Free Literature and Art Programs Offered in The Dalles

Mid-Columbia Senior Center to host monthly classes exploring Irish and American stories, as well as visual art movements.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Mid-Columbia Senior Center in The Dalles, Oregon is offering two free adult education courses starting in March - "Exploring the Short Story: Irish and American Literature" and "Random Art". The literature course will compare short stories from Ireland and the United States, while the art class will explore a range of artistic genres, movements and artists. Both classes are led by instructor Kerry Cobb and are open to the public.

Why it matters

These free programs provide lifelong learning opportunities for residents of The Dalles, allowing them to expand their cultural knowledge and creative thinking without the cost barriers that can sometimes limit adult education access. The classes also highlight the role that community centers can play in fostering arts and education engagement among older adults.

The details

The "Exploring the Short Story" literature course meets monthly on the second Friday at 10am and compares short stories from Ireland and the US. Participants read two stories per session and discuss how culture, landscape and history influence storytelling. The "Random Art" series also meets monthly on the second Tuesday at 10am, covering topics like Rothko & Hockney, the art of Caravaggio, Spanish painters, and early American artists. All classes are held at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center, and interested participants can sign up at the front desk.

  • The literature course begins in March and meets on the second Friday of each month.
  • The art class series begins in March and meets on the second Tuesday of each month.

The players

Kerry Cobb

An arts and education enthusiast who specializes in literature, art history and cultural studies. She is the instructor leading the free classes at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center.

Mid-Columbia Senior Center

A community center in The Dalles, Oregon that is hosting the free adult education programs on literature and art.

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What they’re saying

“Without leaving my sugawn, (an Irish chair made from wood with a straw rope seat), I learned about Irish history, it's unique cultural norms, and gained insight into the heartfelt experiences of Irish individuals.”

— Nancy Turner (Columbia Community Connection)

The takeaway

These free adult education programs at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center demonstrate how community centers can provide accessible lifelong learning opportunities, fostering cultural awareness and creative exploration among older adult residents who may have limited options for continuing education.