Discover the liberating world of abstract art in this hands-on workshop designed for artists of all levels who are ready to move beyond literal representation and explore pure color, form, and emotion.

In this two-hour immersive session, you'll learn to let go of the need to depict recognizable subjects and instead create compelling compositions through intuitive mark-making, bold color choices, and dynamic shapes. We'll explore the fundamental principles that make abstract art work—including balance, movement, tension, and visual rhythm—while drawing inspiration from pioneers like Kandinsky, Rothko, and Joan Mitchell.

The workshop begins with a brief overview of abstract art history and key concepts, followed by guided exercises that will help you break through creative blocks and silence your inner critic. You'll experiment with various techniques including gestural painting, color field exploration, and layering, using acrylic paints and mixed media materials.

Whether you're a beginner curious about abstract expression or an experienced artist looking to push beyond your comfort zone, you'll leave with newfound confidence, at least one completed abstract piece, and practical tools for continued exploration. All materials provided.

All materials provided. No experience needed.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1978854612415?aff=oddtdtcreator

Coffee lovers, tea enthusiasts, or perhaps a morning smoothie devotee? Bring whatever fuels your creativity! We provide the art supplies, you provide the perfect sip to accompany your artistic flow at our CREATE & CONNECT: Paint & Sip event.....

Your journey begins with selecting the perfect design that speaks to YOU. Using traditional tracing techniques, you'll transfer your chosen design onto canvas – no artistic experience or drawing skills are required!

Choose your mini canvas template from our curated collection of inspiring designs:

• Dreamy landscapes that transport you to serene mountainsides and rolling meadows
• Vibrant abstracts bursting with energy and emotion
• Botanical beauties featuring lush florals and organic forms
• Adorable cat & dog imagery
• And so much more to spark your imagination!

Once you have transfered your design onto canvas, you can enjoy the pure joy of painting!!

While you'll have the freedom to paint at your own pace and follow your creative instincts, our professional artists will be your creative companions throughout the morning. They're here to whisper color secrets, share finishing flourishes, and celebrate every brushstroke with you.

Each participant will leave with more than just a painting – you will get to take home a piece of your creative spirit, beautifully captured on canvas and ready to grace your walls with pride.

All supplies provided. $20 per person.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1979886845853?aff=oddtdtcreator

Transform raw materials into stunning, wearable art in this hands-on jewelry making experience. You'll master the techniques for creating elegant drop-style earrings using a blend of natural wood and metal elements.

What You'll Create

Walk away with three unique pairs of custom drop earrings that reflect your personal style. Each pair will showcase different material combinations and finishing techniques you'll learn during the workshop.

Materials & Tools Included

*Your workshop fee covers everything you need:

*Metal blanks (1 set) for contemporary metalwork pieces

*Wood shapes (2 sets) in various forms for organic, natural designs

*Hardware essentials: jewelry wires, O-rings, and professional adhesives

*Professional tools: precision cutting implements and jewelry pliers

*Finishing options: multiple finishes to customize your pieces

Embellishment collection: metallic leafing and shimmering mica flakes for added elegance

$50 per person

Class Size- 6

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1976345742317

Join us on #nationalpuzzleday for a family-friendly workshop where everyone can color and create their own puzzle designs to take home.

While you are in the gallery, you are also invited to add pieces to our community puzzle station AND to complete our scavenger hunt to be entered into our raffle for art prints by Bissi Cruz.

Pre-paid participants will choose either 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. to begin their designs. $5pp.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1978935916598?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join us for an elegant evening where exceptional wines meet artisan chocolates in the inspiring setting of Ardest Gallery.

Savor four carefully selected wines, each paired with a complementary chocolate bite handcrafted by a local chocolatier. Between tastings, wander through our current exhibition and discover works by talented local artists available for purchase.

This intimate event offers the perfect blend of sophisticated flavors and visual artistry. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, chocolate lover, or art collector, you'll enjoy an evening of refined indulgence and creative discovery.

What to Expect:

• Four wine and chocolate pairings designed to delight your palate
• Curated chocolates from a local chocolatier
• Time to explore and appreciate our featured art exhibition
• An intimate, gallery setting perfect for conversation and connection

Limited spaces available. We look forward to sharing this sensory experience with you at Ardest Gallery. $30pp.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1978935916598?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join us for a serene morning practice that combines ancient contemplative tradition with contemporary art-making. In this morning workshop, you'll slow down, breathe deeply, and create your own mandala design using vibrant watercolor pens in the tranquil setting of our gallery.

What to Expect

No artistic experience is necessary—this workshop is about process, not perfection. You'll be guided through gentle breathing exercises before beginning your mandala, working from the center outward in a rhythm that encourages focus and flow. The repetitive, circular motion of creating patterns within the mandala's structure naturally quiets mental chatter and brings your attention fully into the present moment.

The Power of Circles

Mandalas—meaning "circle" in Sanskrit—have been used across cultures for centuries as tools for meditation and self-reflection. The circular form itself holds profound psychological significance: it represents wholeness, unity, and the cycles of life. Creating within a circle provides natural boundaries that can feel both containing and liberating, offering a safe space for exploration while gently directing your creative energy inward.

Research suggests that the act of creating mandalas can reduce anxiety, improve concentration, and promote a sense of calm and centeredness. The symmetrical patterns engage both hemispheres of the brain, while the meditative repetition activates the same neural pathways as traditional seated meditation—making this an ideal practice for those who find stillness challenging.

Leave with your own unique mandala creation and renewed sense of presence to carry into your day.

All materials provided. Beginners warmly welcomed. $15pp.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980332304231?aff=oddtdtcreator

Celebrate Valentine's Day with creativity and connection! Join us for a family-friendly art workshop where students ages 6 and up, accompanied by a guiding family member, will explore the colorful world of Cubism while crafting a Valentine's Day creation AND 2 greeting card projects.

In this hands-on session, participants will design a unique Cubist-inspired heart artwork, breaking away from traditional shapes to create something bold and geometric. We'll then craft two special Valentine's Day cards to share with loved ones, combining creative techniques with personal messages of appreciation.

This workshop is designed for families to work together, with older family members providing support and encouragement as young artists explore new artistic styles. All materials will be provided, and no prior art experience is necessary—just bring your imagination and enthusiasm!

Perfect for ages 6 and up. Each child must be accompanied by a participating family member (parent, grandparent, older sibling, etc.).

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980332304231?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join us for the Opening Reception of "Material Matters," showcasing 20+ mixed media works as selected by our Guest Juror Benji Stiles. Presentation by the Juror, including the presentation of awards at 7 p.m.

"Material Matters" strives to explore the dynamic nature of mixed media, bringing together artists from across mediums and disciplines to weave together a cohesive show celebrating materials. This group show will serve as a tribute to innovative methods that push boundaries of what art can be, and the stories that can be found within the materials themselves.

Participating Artists:Barry KrammesDavid BartellJackie Claudet MittererJamie FrontieraJamie LadyshJanet HaynesJanice Paine-DawesJen BowlesJohn BishopJorge CanulJulie WrightLynne BuchananMarela DominguezMargaret SchermerhornMaria RuenesPatricia BurroughsRamon GamboaShauna Marie MartinValerie GudellZita Masley

Get ready to design and create your own unique accessories! In this fun, hands-on workshop, you'll make three (3) custom keychains that express your personal style.

Choose from a vibrant selection of colorful beads, trendy charms, and fun embellishments to bring your vision to life. Want to add some extra flair? Each keychain can include an optional lip gloss holder attachment—perfect for keeping your favorite gloss right at your fingertips!

Whether you're making matching keychains for you and a friend, creating coordinating designs, or going in completely different directions, the possibilities are endless. These keychains make great accessories for backpacks, purse zippers, or thoughtful handmade gifts.

All supplies are included, and no experience is necessary. Just bring your creativity and get ready to craft something uniquely you! $25pp.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980265509446?aff=oddtdtcreator

ART & LIT is a guided art lesson based on literature for preschool and young elementary aged students and their parent(s) or guardian(s).

Each 45 minute class includes a read-a-loud session, followed by a related art activity or craft. Supplies included. Space is limited and pre-registration is requested. $10 per child. Ages 3-9.

Students will create 3 different postcard designs to spread kindness, inspired by the Book "The Postcard Project".

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980265509446?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join us for this special paint-your-pet workshop with Jeff Lung!

After registering for the workshop, Lung will sketch your pet on an 8x10 canvas panel prior to the event.

During the workshop, enjoy bringing your sketch to life with colorful acrylic paint pens using color tips and tricks, along with guidance from the artist.

Supplies included. No experience needed. All ages welcome (children under 12 with a parent/guardian). $65 pp.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980194304470?aff=oddtdtcreator

Turn your own photos into encaustic works of art with Shauna Martin! In this workshop, participants will create (2), 5x5 encaustic photos on wood panels.

In this specialty workshop, you’ll be using your own photos, turned black & white, and oil sticks of all colors to create beautifully layered compositions! The end result will remind you of the timeless hand-painted photographs of the late 1800's but with a modern twist! We offer an assortment of supplies, but you are welcome to bring more; your favorite tissue paper (plain or pattern); favorite writings, quotes, poems, magazine cutouts, hand-made papers, fabric, etc. Essentially, if you like scrapbooking or journaling, this workshop is for you! Make sure to check your email after registration for a photo request from Shauna. Once she receives your images she will edit and get them printed for the event.

This 2 hour workshop is designed for artists of all levels, even those new to encaustic painting. All supplies included.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980883994351?aff=oddtdtcreator

Turn your own photos into encaustic works of art with Shauna Martin! In this workshop, participants will create (2), 5x5 encaustic photos on wood panels.

In this specialty workshop, you’ll be using your own photos, turned black & white, and oil sticks of all colors to create beautifully layered compositions! The end result will remind you of the timeless hand-painted photographs of the late 1800's but with a modern twist! We offer an assortment of supplies, but you are welcome to bring more; your favorite tissue paper (plain or pattern); favorite writings, quotes, poems, magazine cutouts, hand-made papers, fabric, etc. Essentially, if you like scrapbooking or journaling, this workshop is for you! Make sure to check your email after registration for a photo request from Shauna. Once she receives your images she will edit and get them printed for the event.

This 2 hour workshop is designed for artists of all levels, even those new to encaustic painting. All supplies included.

To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980883994351?aff=oddtdtcreator