We’re open today from 11 AM - 7 PM
In this new 4-week art series, create a multi-media sculpture!
Each week, we'll introduce a new material to explore and experiment with, while slowly building and layering them into a one-of-a-kind artwork. Drawing inspiration from six remarkable contemporary artists, we will also discuss how artists choose their materials and what those choices mean.
Come ready to explore, experiment, and create something truly unique!
Reflections is an art-making workshop series designed to serve adults 55 and older. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, these workshops offer a fun and supportive space to explore new creative possibilities!
Each workshop will include an investigation of contemporary art-making techniques and materials. No prior art experience is required. Registration gives participants access to the full series (four workshops).
Session dates in this series are:
10AM: Gallery Discussion
The conversations around the artworks in MCASD’s collection will offer stimulating input and prompts for participants as they think about creating their own artworks.
10:30AM: Coffee and Mingle
Refreshments and time for social interaction will take place in Museum venues that take full advantage of the beautiful oceanside location and views.
11AM: Art-Making Activity
The hands-on workshop will provide a forum for self-expression and developing new interpersonal connections.
Week 1— Building the Foundation
This week, we'll build the foundation of our piece by using gridded plastic sheets and colorful fasteners to create shapes that will serve as the first layer of our growing artwork. We'll also take a tour of Bárbara Sánchez Kane's Look 12 (2025) (digital) and Diedrick Brackens' ark (indigo) (2021) and discuss how their works spark ideas for our own.
If you have any natural materials or found objects at home that you'd love to repurpose and incorporate into your piece, bring them along — we'd love to see what you find!
Week 2 — Adding Layers
This week we'll introduce an exciting new material as our sculpture gains form! We will layer plaster gauze onto our foundation to create a sturdier, more textured surface. For inspiration, we'll tour and discuss Vaughn Spann's Flood (2020) and Roberto Lugo's MLK and Obama Teapot (2017) (digital, not in collection). These two artists' work will give us plenty to think and talk about as our pieces gain new dimension and weight.
Come ready to get your hands a little messy — it's all part of the fun!
Week 3 — Finding Your Finish
The third week is all about making our piece stand out. We will explore a variety of exciting finishes, adding yet another layer of color, texture, and personality to our sculptures. From paint and glosses to sealants, thread, and raffia, there are so many ways to make your piece unique. For inspiration, we'll tour and discuss Emil Lukas's Winter Ring, Yellow Flap (2013–2014) and Chiara Banfi's Redburst (2012). These artists’ use of material and surface will spark new perspectives to finish our sculptures!
Come ready to experiment and see what finishing materials speak to you.
Week 4 — Bringing It All Together
The final week is a chance to step back, reflect, and celebrate everything we've created and discovered together. We'll finish up any last material explorations and put the final touches on our sculptures, then come together to share our experiences from across the series.
What material surprised you most? What did you love working with, and what pushed you out of your comfort zone? There are no wrong answers. Every part of the process–the happy accidents and the challenges alike–are worth celebrating. We can't wait to see what you've made and hear the stories behind each unique piece!