Image by Jon Tyson

Hope – art as a doorway to hope and resilience.

Art can and will always be a source of hope, no matter the state of the world. Expand your relationship with art and hope as we use layers, portals, and entry points to hope in our art making. 

Open Studio introduces you to the therapeutic benefits of art making with a licensed professional counselor and registered art therapist in a relaxed community setting. This community group is ideal for adults looking to improve self-support skills, engage more deeply in their life, and build connection with others.

• What Can I Expect?

  Session Structure

  5:45–6 PM Doors open. Explore the studio and get settled before we begin.

  6–6:20 PM We'll start with an introduction to the class theme, using prompts to explore how the topic personally resonates with you. We'll consider different ways to express those thoughts and feelings through art.

  6:20–6:30 PM Next, we'll explore the available art materials, their tactile properties, and how different mediums can be used for creative expression. There will be time for questions and guidance before getting started.

  6:30–7:30 PM We'll spend the next hour making art inspired by your thoughts and feelings around the topic. The focus is on the creative process rather than a particular finished result, using color, texture, materials, and movement to explore personal expression.

  7:30–8 PM We'll finish with a guided, private written reflection. Through prompts, you'll explore the emotions you experienced, what you see expressed in your artwork, and how you feel afterward. You'll take your art home as a keepsake or something to continue working on.

• FAQs

  What if I'm not artistic?
  This is a community-focused class, all experience levels are welcome. The focus is on exploring and expressing thoughts and feelings through artmaking, not creating a perfect finished piece.

  What do I need to bring?
  You don’t need to bring anything! You're welcome to bring your own supplies, but the studio has a wide range of materials to explore, including markers, colored pencils, oil pastels, paint pens, collage supplies, watercolor, acrylic and oil paint, and various types of canvas and paper.

  What if I don't know what to make?
  Katie will be available throughout the session to help you develop ideas, explore different materials, and find ways to express what you're feeling.

  How structured is the class?
  Each session follows a structured timeline, but the artmaking can be as open-ended or guided as you'd like. You'll explore at your own pace, with support available whenever you need it.

  Will I have to share my artwork or personal experiences?
  The process is focused on individual exploration. While you'll be creating alongside others in a supportive group environment, personal reflections are written and remain private, with no group discussion or sharing required.

  Is this a therapy session?
  While these sessions can be highly therapeutic, they are not therapy. Open Studio encourages self-expression, personal reflection, and building confidence through creative exploration. These experiences can help you develop skills and insights to carry into everyday life.

  Is it good for kids?
  These sessions are designed for adults only, with an emphasis on personal exploration, self-awareness, and independent participation.

  How regularly do you offer these classes?
  Open Studio is an annual fall series, running from October through early December.