Discover the Benefits of Making Art
- Stress Relief & Mental Health. Engaging in art helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by promoting relaxation and mindfulness. It allows you to express emotions in a healthy way.
- Boosts Creativity & Problem-Solving Skills. Art encourages out-of-the-box thinking, helping to develop problem-solving skills and innovative approaches in both art and everyday life.
- Improves Cognitive & Motor Skills. Whatever you are creating, art enhances hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and cognitive functions like memory and concentration.
- Enhances Self-Expression & Confidence. Art allows you to communicate thoughts and emotions that may be hard to express with words, fostering self-discovery and personal growth.
- Encourages Social Connection & Community. Art brings people together, whether through collaborations, exhibitions, or online sharing. It helps build meaningful connections and appreciation for different perspectives.
WHY TAKE AN ART WORKSHOP?
- Guided Step-by-Step Instruction. No experience? No problem! These workshops are designed to help you every step of the way.
- All Materials Provided. Just bring yourself, and I’ll take care of the rest!
- Community & Connection. Create alongside like-minded individuals in a warm, inclusive space.
- Lunch & Snacks Provided. For workshops longer than 4 hour - dietary needs accommodated.
- All skill levels are welcome. No prior experience required! Recommended for ages 8 and up as we use scissors.
MORE INFORMATION
- Flexible Refunds & Transfers. Full refunds (minus the credit card fee) with 1-day notice, or transfer your credit to another session of equal value. If the instructor cancels, you will receive a full refund or credit. You will be notified if the minimum registration (5) is not met and the workshop is cancelled. You will have the option to receive a full refund, or use a credit towards another workshop (of equal value). .
- Reserve Your Spot Today! Spaces are limited, so sign up now and bring a friend for a fun and inspiring day of creativity. Let your imagination soar and leave with a masterpiece—and a heart full of inspiration! If a workshop is full, please use the contact form below to request to be on a waiting list. I will notify you if there is a cancellation or another workshop is offered.
- Registration. Kindly register at least 3 days prior to the event.
- Location. Bozeman, Montana - Full details will be provided when you book a workshop.
- HAVE QUESTIONS? Use the contact form below—I’d love to hear from you!
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Creating in the Sacred Circle
Art has always been my passion, and sharing it with others brings me immense joy. I specialize in a unique collage-style technique—painting on paper, cutting it into pieces, and reassembling them into whimsical and expressive works of art. Through my workshops, held both in my home studio and at various art galleries, I guide students in discovering their own creative voice.
I believe that the space where we create is sacred, a “Sacred Circle” where time slows down, worries fade, and imagination takes over. At the beginning of each session, we agree to leave our troubles at the door and focus on the blessings in our lives. Art has the power to heal, allowing us to express our emotions—our joys, fears, and dreams—without words. These sessions foster connection, inspiration, and appreciation for different perspectives.
As an instructor, I encourage students to experiment with a variety of materials and colors, giving them the freedom to explore and create. I love seeing their confidence grow as they realize their own artistic potential. Creativity is a gift we all possess, and my goal is to help others tap into that wellspring and bring their unique visions to life.
My artistic journey was deeply influenced by Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar and my discovery of mixed media collage. Over two decades, I have refined my style, received numerous awards at local art shows, contributed to nonprofit organizations, and earned representation in several galleries. I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design with honors from Montana State University and currently reside in Bozeman, Montana. Read more about me on my "About Me" page.
WHAT OTHER PEOPLE ARE SAYING
"This experience has been so fun and I created something I will actually hang up in my house." Melissa B., Livingston, MT
"I started off unsure if I could do it but by the end I am so happy and thrilled with my piece." Erin M., Livingston, MT
"Shirley provides very clear direction and the included supplies were an unexpected surprise. Super fun class!" JoAnn H., Ft. Collins, CO
"Great way to instruct for creativity and flexibility." Rae T., Wellington, CO
"Wonderful, informative, fun, amazing! Loved it!" Chelsay M., Livingston, MT
"This was a great class. Detailed instructions and lots of fun! I really enjoyed this class." Judi S., Ft. Collins, CO
"Shirley was a fantastic teacher - organized, well structured, but with room for improvision - excellent instruction." Sue T., Ft. Collins, CO
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