Welcome from Texas. I grew up in Leavenworth. I left right after high school (LHS '65), but still love to visit when I get the chance. Will have to check out that LQS someday.
Everyone should be proud to develop talents, regardless of narrow expectations based on ... what?
There is a group of native people in the San Blas islands who are famous for their reverse applique molas (Google for images). Usually the men fish and the women sew, but they have an unusual number of albinos, and a boy like that would get dangerously burnt in the sun, so traditionally they stay home and learn to make molas.
You are wise to take a class. I re-invented the wheel, and in doing so, made every possible mistake. You'll get to the fun part much quicker and with less disappointment along the way. Enjoy!