The Art of the Bow: A Beginner’s Guide to Traditional Archery

The Art of the Bow:

A Beginner’s Guide to Traditional Archery 

Are you looking to learn a brand new skill to add another arrow to your quiver? Why not choose to take that literally and come discover the timeless skill of traditional archery!? Channel your inner Robin Hood, Legolas, or Hawkeye (Kate Bishop > Clint Barton, incidentally) and become better acquainted with the form, function and history of longbows and recurve bows - from traditional to modern.

The Art Of The Bow is your crash course in archery, body awareness, focus, and getting to appreciate the deeply satisfying "thwip" (that's the scientific name for the sound of arrow meeting target) that you can only truly experience when letting an arrow fly by your own hand. Come as you are, leave feeling like a woodland warrior. Hooded cloak optional but not at all discouraged.

About the Educator:

Tony "The Captain" Ballard-Smoot

Experienced archer, historical educator and movement artist, Tony Ballard-Smoot leads a hands-on archery class including demonstrations of proper form, aiming and release techniques, tips on gear, resources and communities, and opportunities to practice using provided bows.

DETAILS

📅 Date: August 21st

⏰ Time: Class 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm, Doors Open 7:00 pm

📍 Location: Wicked Eden, 2912 South High ST, Columbus Ohio 43207

Tickets must be purchased in advance, no ticket sales at the door.

WHAT WE’LL HAVE FOR YOU!

• Drinks! The bar will be open with a variety of sodas and mocktails to quench your thirst!

• Snacks! When the urge to snack hits you, we've got you covered! As always, our signature merch is always available!

• Comfy Spots! Places to sit and chill! Floor Pillows! Relaxing chairs. No shoes required (but you do you, boo)

• New friends! We're the coolest spot in the city and it's all because of the cool folks that call this place home.

• Empowerment in education! We provide educational offerings that are fundamentally anti-racist, anti-colonial, and aimed to provide knowledge that arms you for living.

DRESS CODE

For safety and comfort, we ask that all attendees wear close-fitting tops, closed-toe shoes, and avoid anything that could snag or dangle—think flowy sleeves, long necklaces, or loose scarves. Long hair should be tied back, and we recommend layers you can move in. You don’t need fancy gear—just clothes that let you feel grounded, steady, and safe. Come as you are, just make sure you can pull a bowstring without your hoodie trying to sabotage you.

VOLUNTEERS

We LOVE volunteers! Join our team of community volunteers, and you will find new friends, a support system, and a tight-knit center of empowerment. 

By volunteering with us, you can make a meaningful impact on people's lives. Still, you will also get perks such as discounted or free access to our events and classes and, most importantly, collaborative input into what we do here. Your ideas are important to us, and as a volunteer, we want you to feel like you're part of our community: one that celebrates who you are and supports your journey.

VOLUNTEER WITH US

INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY

We're committed to inclusivity. Our community is a tapestry of individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and social backgrounds, including all gender identities and expressions. We encourage everyone to engage with empathy and curiosity, always asking rather than assuming someone's identity or preferences. Our space is and always will be wheelchair accessible, with multiple spaces for varying sensory needs.

Read more about our Rules and Community Agreements and check the FAQ too.

PLEASE NOTE: No refunds will be given on ticket purchases. The address is provided to confirmed ticket holders after purchase. Wicked Eden is located on the south side of Columbus, approximately 10 minutes from downtown, and is one block away from a COTA bus stop.

ABOUT US

The Autonomy Project is a 501(c)(3) public charity providing resources, education, advocacy, and connection for sex workers, LGBTQIA+ folks, BIPOC, and other marginalized communities. EIN 92-1587440