From Persian language classes to knitting for all, you can hone your skills and get a whole new set with free classes and workshops around town. Some of them cater specifically to people between 18 and 30 but some are open for all. Here’s where to start:
Hermitage Youth Center
Where else to study art than at one of the world’s top museums, the Hermitage? The Center offers free lectures and events about modern and classical art and architecture around the world. Want to make art? Check out their creative projects in the Art Lab.
LanguageFree
Native speakers and pros in a foreign language volunteer their time to share their skills. LanguageFree is a fun community as much as it is a learning environment. German, Norwegian, Japanese, and French are just some of the courses on tap for this spring.
Gogol Library
“How to Write Everything” and art quest “Female Eye” are just some of the free classes offered at Gogol Library. Also, keep it in mind for self-care workshops with psychologists and an English conversation club.
Polyarnik Creative Space
Geared specifically to 14 - 30 year olds, Polyarnik offers free classes on graphic design, digital arts and animation, sketching and experimental graphics, to name a few. Always wanted to ask an art director your five burning questions? Want to know about ancient trilobites you can still find in St. Petersburg? This is the place.
Open Workshops at the Lermontov Library
Local artisans share their expertise in ceramics woodworking, photography, working with leather, flower arranging, and graphic storytelling, just to name a few. It’s super hands-on, tangible and just perfect for those used to working with their head.
A local artist Darina Biryulina recently made an entire map of nonprofit organizations that offer free classes. You can also hone your skills and make new friends at ITMO University clubs.
