Haystack Mountain School of Crafts will open its fall season at the new Center for Community Programs in Deer Isle village with an exhibition called “Beaded Blessings.” The traveling exhibit was developed by artist Sonya Clark and includes more than 4,000 “beaded prayers” inspired by African amulet traditions. This weekend, Clark will lead two half-day workshops with Deer Isle residents who will create two pieces: One to keep and one to be included in the touring exhibition.

The workshops are free, but participants must register in advance. On Saturday evening, Clark will give a gallery talk about the project. She is the chairwoman of the Craft and Material Studies Department at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va, and is also vice president of Haystack’s board of trustees.

Haystack’s Center for Community Programs is the school’s new office and exhibition-workshop space. It is located at 22 Church St. in Deer Isle. For more information or to register for a workshop, contact Susan Webster at community@haystack-mtn.org or 348-2306.