EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
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.
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.
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.To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1981799182704?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.
Step inside "Concrete & Clay," a group exhibition where nine Texas artists converge to challenge, inspire, and reimagine the world around us.
This Opening Reception is your invitation to go beyond the canvas — wander the gallery, hear the stories behind the work straight from the hands that made it, and discover what happens when raw vision meets raw material. Come for the art. Stay for the conversation.
Participating artists include:April DeConickDamon ThomasDoni LangloisEileen McClellanEmily RensinkJessica PhillipsJodi WalshNatasha KanevskiSuzettte Schutze
Transform blank watercolor paper into three (3) enchanting botanical bookmarks that will dance between the pages of your favorite reads. Whether you're drawn to delicate ferns, wild meadow flowers, or cascading ivy, you'll bring nature's poetry to life with gentle brushstrokes and flowing watercolors.
What awaits you:
Perfect for dreamers, book lovers, and anyone who's ever wanted to paint but thought they couldn't. No artistic background required—just bring your curiosity and leave with three handcrafted treasures that make every reading session a little more beautiful.
Your books will thank you. Your shelves will never look the same.
Ever wish you could build the puzzle before you solve it? Now you can! Using vibrant gel crayons and washable markers, you'll design and color your very own 48-piece puzzle — whether you draw inspiration from our sample designs or dream something up straight from your imagination. From doodles to masterpieces, every creation is one-of-a-kind (just like you!). Once it's finished, the real fun begins — mix up the pieces and put your own artwork back together again.
Perfect for budding artists and creative minds ages 7 to adult. No experience necessary — only imagination required!
**Plan to spend an hour or two creating your stones in this self-guided event. Each participant will paint (3), 2-3" stones per ticket. **
This kindness stones project is an uplifting, creative activity designed to promote random acts of kindness in the shape of painted rocks with inspirational words. This drop-in event combines art, mindfulness, and community building into a meaningful hands-on experience suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Create your own stones utilizing paint pens, inspirational examples and flat river stones. Spread them around town to bring smiles to the community, or to keep as a daily, positive reminder for yourself.
This self- guided session typically follows these key steps:
*Rock Selection & Preparation - Participants choose smooth, appropriately-sized stones and learn proper cleaning techniques to ensure paint adhesion
*Base Coat Creation - Participants apply colorful background designs using various techniques like solid colors, or dot painting
*Message Writing - The heart of the workshop where participants craft inspirational words, phrases, or positive affirmations using hand lettering techniques
*Artistic Enhancement - Adding decorative elements like hearts, rainbows, or other uplifting imagery while following environmental safety guidelines
*Sharing & Placement Discussion - Understanding appropriate locations for hiding rocks and alternative ways to spread kindness
$5 from each ticket will be donated to Mosaics of Mercy, a local organization that provides ongoing support to community members struggling with mental health.
Get ready to design and create your own unique accessories! In this fun, hands-on workshop, you'll make three (3) custom charms that express your personal style. These versatile charms are ideal water bottle accessories, key chains or even unique bookmarks....you can 'charm your way' with unique designs.
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 charm 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 charms make great accessories for backpacks, purse zippers, or thoughtful handmade gifts.
All supplies are included, and no experience is necessary.
Join us for a hands-on origami adventure where families will learn to fold classic paper airplanes and boats before putting them to the test outdoors! We'll provide step-by-step instruction and all materials needed, including paper and crayons for decorating your creations. Once you've mastered the basics, launch your airplanes in a friendly distance competition and race your boats in water.
Ready for more? We'll also have paper available to try your hand at folding hopping frogs and delicate butterflies.
This workshop is designed for ages 6+ accompanied by a parent or guardian. No origami experience necessary—just bring your creativity and competitive spirit!
Stir Your Creative Spirit: An Evening of Art & Artisanal Cocktails - "Luck of the Irish" Edition in celebration of St. Patrick's Day!!
Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory celebration where the art of mixology meets visual inspiration. Join us for an exclusive evening that blends creative expression with craft cocktails, presented in partnership with the renowned Amerigo's Grille.
Master the Craft
Let your creativity flow as one of Amerigo's elite mixologists guides you through the artistry of classic cocktail creation. Learn the secrets behind perfectly balanced drinks while discovering the stories and techniques that transform simple ingredients into sophisticated libations.
Art in Motion
Between mixing sessions, lose yourself in our captivating "Concrete & Clay" exhibition, showcasing bold works by talented Texas artists. The gallery space comes alive with an additional collection featuring 60 contemporary Texas artists, offering a rich tapestry of local artistic vision.
A Culinary Finale
Complete your evening of artistic indulgence at Amerigo's Grille, where culinary artistry takes center stage.
What to Expect:
Come raise a glass to creativity as we celebrate the intersection of visual and culinary arts in this unique gallery experience.
Join artist Allan Ginsburg for this hands-on workshop exploring watercolor techniques and succulents!! Beginner Friendly!
Succulents are known for their defined lines, unique shapes and fun textures. They're not only popular additions to the home garden and planters, but they have become popular home decor elements.
Join Allan Ginsburg in this watercolor workshop focused on mastering shading techniques and color blending. Participants will work alongside Ginsburg, step-by-step, working to create their own one-of-a-kind finished 8x10 masterpiece, suitable for framing.
Participants will be provided watercolor packets that include information and tips for reference and ALL supplies needed for the workshop. $85 pp. Limited to 8 attendees.
A Creative Workshop Inspired by World Poetry Day
Celebrated every March, World Poetry Day reminds us that poetry lives everywhere — even hiding inside the pages of an old book. In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn to uncover it.
Blackout poetry is the art of taking an existing page of text and selecting words to form your own original poem, then blacking out or covering everything around them. The result is something entirely your own — part poetry, part visual art.
Over 90 minutes, you'll receive step-by-step guidance on how to read a page with fresh eyes, find your poem, and bring it to life. From there, the page becomes your canvas. Use pens, watercolors, and other mixed media to transform the surrounding text into something beautiful, bold, or deeply personal — the creative choices are yours to make.
No writing experience. No art experience. No pressure. Just you, a page, and whatever you want to say.
All supplies are provided. All skill levels welcome. To Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1980883994351?aff=oddtdtcreator
See above for description.
Join us for "Art in The Woods," our outdoor art market featuring works by 20+ Texas artists, just outside the doors of the gallery!
In addition to our lineup of spectacular local artists (see below), we are celebrating "National Children's Craft Day" and will have special attractions and events for families throughout the day.
Embark on an Artist's Quest!Uncover the secrets behind each market artist's masterpieces by becoming an "Art Detective" with our special Interactive Discovery Cards. As you wander through the market & gallery, these cards will prompt you to unlock fascinating conversations with our artists - from their eureka moments of inspiration to the fascinating techniques that bring their visions to life. Every completed Discovery Card enters you into our Creative Raffle, where lucky winners will take home a treasure trove of art supplies! (Don't worry - your creative destiny can find you even if you can't stay for the drawing!)Let curiosity be your compass as you explore, discover, and perhaps win the tools to start your own artistic journey!
Parent & Child Creation Stations:TBD
The gallery will also have a variety of "make-and-take" craft kits for children, artist designed coloring books and more available for purchase to inspire creativity at home!!
Participating art market artists include:Stay tuned....
Join Houston-based calligrapher and artist Sarah Batmale of The Beaux Arts for a hands-on introduction to modern calligraphy and expressive hand lettering. This relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop is designed for creatives of all levels who are curious to explore lettering as both an artistic practice and a mindful creative outlet.
Participants will learn foundational techniques using brush pens and markers, explore letterforms and composition, and create a finished piece suitable for display or gifting. All materials are provided, and guests will leave with new skills, creative confidence, and their own custom artwork.
No prior experience is required.
Duration: 2 hoursSkill Level: Beginner-friendlyMaterials: All supplies included
There is an ancient Japanese belief: fold 1,000 paper cranes, and you will be granted a wish. But the real magic may be in the folding itself.
In this mindful, hands-on workshop, we'll explore the cultural and symbolic life of the crane — a creature that represents longevity, peace, and resilience across centuries of Japanese tradition. We'll draw inspiration from the stunning ways artists have transformed Senbazuru into living works of art before putting beautiful paper in your own hands.
You'll learn to fold your first origami crane and, if the spirit moves you, begin stringing your own Senbazuru — one crane at a time, toward one thousand.
$20 per person
See above for description....
Let’s get groovy! Join us and make your own Tie-Dye bowl or dish (approx. 8”) alongside glass artist Mary Torres.
You will choose the shape, colors and design of your piece from a wide variety of glass colors to complete your glass bowl design. The finished design will be fired in a kiln by the artist, packaged and delivered to the gallery within 2 weeks of the class date.
All materials and tools are supplied. NO experience needed. $70pp. Class size limited to 8.
In this hands-on workshop, students will select 3 pre-cut glass shapes from a curated collection to serve as the base of their very own suncatchers. From there, the creativity is entirely yours — layer on vibrant crushed glass in a rainbow of sizes and colors to build depth, texture, and dazzling light-catching detail. Complement your design with an assortment of decorative baubles that add personality and sparkle to every piece.
All pieces will be carefully kiln-fired to fuse the glass and lock in your creation permanently. Finished suncatchers will be ready for pick up the following weekend, complete with hanging hardware so you can display them in a sunny window.
Mary Torres is a celebrated local glass artist focusing on kiln-formed glassworks. Her work is currently displayed in Ardest Gallery.
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.
Ardest Gallery is a fine arts gallery representing top Texas 2D and 3D visual artists, located in The Woodlands, TX.
25200 Grogan's Park Drive
The Woodlands, TX 77380
832-296-6723
julieverville@ardestgallery.com
GALLERY HOURS
Wednesday to Friday 10am - 2pm
Saturdays 10am - 4pm
Copyright © 2025 Ardest Gallery. Site by Art Galleria
