The Winkler Center is dedicated to the proposition that learning is important for adults as it is for young people. Through seminars, lectures, arts workshops and Foundation Studies in Anthroposophy, the Center works to foster a deeper understanding of the human being and the deeper meanings of human existence.
 

Class of 2009 and Faculty

The Center’s mission is to sponsor learning that comes from activities of the artistic and moral nature of the human being. Through cooperative learning and social consciousness, ideas become the ideals and catalysts for change, on personal, familial and societal levels. The Center provides a meeting place for new relationships founded on interest in spiritual values.

We offer Foundation Studies, a program which includes study of the philosophical and pedagogical works of Rudolf Steiner, the founder of Waldorf education, combined with work in the arts: eurythmy, painting, speech, and music. The two-year program began in collaboration with The Center for Anthroposophy in Wilton N.H. that sponsors similar programs around the country, as well as a high school teacher training program and renewal courses for teachers. Since 2006 the Garden City program has continued to expand locally and the Winkler Center for Adult Learning was independently established. It continues to provide Foundation Studies, a solid basis for Waldorf teacher training as well as art courses, seminars, and lectures that encourage self-actualization and a spiritual view of life.

Franz E. Winkler, M.D. (1907-1972) was a strong advocate for adult education, and his writings and public talks often emphasized the need for seminars and programs through which adults could meet for intellectual study, artistic work and friendship. Dr. Winkler as the school doctor for the Waldorf School in Garden City in the 1950’s and 60’s and sought for the spiritual causes behind the physical symptoms of illness. It is in honor of his work with children, adults and families that the Center is dedicated.

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Student work from the
"History of Consciousness Through Art" course.