THE ART OF WRITING WORKSHOP:

SHARE YOUR LIFE IN WRITING

Friday, March 20

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Have you ever wanted to tell your life story?

Has it been exceptional, but you don’t know how to get your story on the page?

Or has it been ordinary and you’d like to transform it to extraordinary?

This workshop is a starting point to transfer your life experiences into written form—whether it’s just for friends and family, or you’d like to write and publish a book/ a memoir. Whether you have nothing on paper or you’ve been keeping a journal, this workshop will spark your interest or reignite your desire to tell your life story. We’ll discuss ideas of various memoir structures and get started on the journey with short writing sessions from inspiring prompts.

Bring a pen and pad or your laptop. Journals will also be available for purchase

Teaching Artist: Andrea Susan Glass

Suggested Supplies: bring pen and paper or your preferred form of writing materials.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday, March 13th
11:30AM - 1:30PM

Make and Take a Hardcover Concertina Book.

Join us at the Front Porch Gallery for a hands-on, creative experience!

Get ready to craft a beautiful folded concertina book with pockets in this fun and interactive workshop led by the talented Renée Richetts . This class is perfect for all skill levels, whether you're a seasoned crafter or new to bookbinding!

You'll learn how to create your very own unique concertina book that folds out beautifully, with pockets for storing little treasures or keepsakes. The possibilities for customization are endless – think colorful paper, embellishments, and more! All materials and tools will be provided, so all you need to bring is your creativity and excitement.

This class is designed to be fun, social, and relaxed, making it a perfect way to spend a creative afternoon. We can't wait to see the amazing creations you'll bring to life! Whether you're making a personal journal, a gift, or just enjoying the art of crafting, you’re in for a fantastic time.

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday, March 6th
11:30AM - 1:30PM

Make and Take
Join us at the Front Porch Gallery for a hands-on, creative experience!

Get ready to craft a beautiful book in this fun and interactive workshop led by the talented Renée Richetts . This class is perfect for all skill levels, whether you're a seasoned crafter or new to bookbinding!

You'll learn how to create your very own unique book. The possibilities for customization are endless – think colorful paper, embellishments, and more! All materials and tools will be provided, so all you need to bring is your creativity and excitement.

This class is designed to be fun, social, and relaxed, making it a perfect way to spend a creative afternoon. We can't wait to see the amazing creations you'll bring to life! Whether you're making a personal journal, a gift, or just enjoying the art of crafting, you’re in for a fantastic time.

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Thursday, March 5th
11:30AM - 1:30PM

Make and Take
Join us at the Front Porch Gallery for a hands-on, creative experience!

Get ready to craft a beautiful book in this fun and interactive workshop led by the talented Renée Richetts . This class is perfect for all skill levels, whether you're a seasoned crafter or new to bookbinding!

You'll learn how to create your very own unique book. The possibilities for customization are endless – think colorful paper, embellishments, and more! All materials and tools will be provided, so all you need to bring is your creativity and excitement.

This class is designed to be fun, social, and relaxed, making it a perfect way to spend a creative afternoon. We can't wait to see the amazing creations you'll bring to life! Whether you're making a personal journal, a gift, or just enjoying the art of crafting, you’re in for a fantastic time.

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday , Feb 27, 2026
11:30AM - 1:00PM

The Sacred Art of Belly Dance

Discover the joy, beauty, and empowerment of belly dance in this gentle, fun, and low-impact class designed especially for older adults. Perfect for beginners and first-timers, the class uses stretching, breathing, shimmies, and flowing movements to build strength, flexibility, balance, and core stability while connecting with inner wisdom and celebrating female empowerment in a supportive community. Come join in and explore the sacred art of belly dance.

Your teacher, Donnalee Singer, brings more than 40 years of performance and choreography experience, along with training in the Serena method, to create a safe and inviting space for individuals to try something new.

Teaching Artist: Donnalee Singer

Registration: Free | Click below

RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Thursday, February 26, 2026

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

RIP, RELEASE & RISE

RIP, RELEASE & RISE is a fun, creative art workshop where you get to let go of what you don’t need anymore — and turn it into something beautiful. You’ll start by writing down words, thoughts, or themes you’re ready to release, tear them up, and then use those pieces to create a one-of-a-kind abstract artwork. No art experience needed — just curiosity and a willingness to play. This workshop is relaxed, social, and creative. You’ll leave with a meaningful piece of art, a lighter heart, and the simple joy that comes from creating with your hands. It’s a perfect way to reset, refresh, and enjoy an afternoon of creativity. *The associated lesson with this workshop is to really demonstrate that our negative beliefs, painful patterns, and hurts can be used and turned into something absolutely beautiful if we allow that to happen. It is up to us.

Teaching Artist: Sara Ann Aerts

RSVP Here



Saturday Feb 21st
1:00 - 3:00 pm

Gallery Takeover: Grand Opening Celebration

Come join us to take over the gallery and make a piece of art with us!!

Join us for the Grand Opening of Gallery Takeover — a vibrant celebration of art, music, and cake at the gallery!
This immersive exhibition invites community members to create a piece of art that helps transform and take over the gallery space, making creativity the centerpiece of the experience.

This year’s theme, Hope Thrives, explores creativity as a powerful tool for resilience, adaptation, and collective healing. Through shared making and collaboration, we celebrate how hope shows up in our communities.

Registration: Free |

Friday , February 13, 2026
1:30PM - 3:000PM

Slow down and create something meaningful in this hands-on paper mâché workshop centered around the heart. Using simple, accessible materials, participants will learn the basics of paper mâché while shaping and decorating their own heart form. Along the way, we’ll explore themes of care, resilience, and self-expression through creative play and reflection.

This workshop is open to all ages and skill levels—no prior art experience needed. Whether you come to relax, connect, or simply enjoy the joy of making by hand, you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind piece and a deeper appreciation for the creative process.            

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

Hosted by Creativity Suitcase

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Thursday , February 12, 2026
1:30PM - 3:000PM

Japanese Fan Painting: Cherry Blossoms

This Japanese fan painting workshop offers a peaceful, hands-on introduction to traditional Japanese art. Open to all, it focuses on drawing and painting cherry blossoms on folding fans while exploring simple techniques and the cultural meaning behind this timeless art form. No experience needed, just creativity and curiosity.    

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

Hosted by Creativity Suitcase

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday Feb 6th
11:30AM - 1:30PM 

MOHAI Dolls 

A MOHAI doll is a Messenger of Hope and Inspiration. It is a doll that you create using scrap material, old jewelry and your imagination. Once created, your doll will take on a personality that resonates within you, giving you power, words of wisdom or inspiration. The process of making a doll invites you to search inward to see what it is that is important to you. Come and partake in the magic making. 

Suggested Supplies: All materials will be provided, if there is something that you would like to bring to personalize it, please do so.

Teaching Artist: Kim Cyr

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

REGISTER HERE

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday January 30th
11:30am- 1:00pm

Granny Square Crochet

Jan 30th 11:30am - 1:00pm

Join us for a relaxing and creative crochet workshop focused on learning the classic granny square—a foundational crochet skill that opens the door to countless projects. This workshop is open to all levels, from complete beginners to experienced crocheters looking for a calm, joyful session.

Crocheting granny squares is fun, meditative, and zen. It supports hand–eye coordination, encourages mindfulness, and is wonderful for the mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re here to learn something new or simply to unwind, this workshop offers a peaceful space to create and connect.

All materials will be provided, or feel free to bring your favorite yarn if you already have a color scheme in mind.

Granny squares are incredibly versatile! They can be used to create:

• Blankets

• Pot holders

• Coasters

• Framed fiber art (repeated patterns look beautiful!)

• Bags, pillows, garments, and so much more

Teaching Artist: Bev Veytia

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Thursday , January 22, 2026
11:30AM - 12:30PM

PLEASE BRING A SELF POTRAIT

Reflections of Love: A Creative Journey Through Persian Art & Memories Join artist Shirin Aghdaie for a gentle, two-hour collage workshop for seniors. Blend personal photos with Persian art—floral motifs, calligraphy, and poetry—while reflecting on meaningful memories. Through mindfulness, storytelling, and creativity, participants will honor loved ones and find calm joy in artistic expression. No experience needed; all materials provided.

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

Hosted by Persian Place

Persian Place is a Carlsbad-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving and sharing Persian art and culture through workshops, events, and educational programming.

Come as you are and leave feeling centered, inspired, and connected.

Teaching Artist: Yasaman Mostajeran, PhD

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday, January 16, 2026

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Word Mandala Magic: A Word of the Year Art Workshop

In this guided experience, you’ll be invited to slow down and turn inward to discover your Word of the Year for 2026 — a word that reflects what you’re calling in, strengthening, or honoring as you move forward. This word becomes the quiet anchor for your creative process.

The word remains known only to you unless you choose to share it, allowing the piece to hold your intention in a private, sacred way

Teaching Artist: Sara Ann Aerts

RSVP Here



Friday January 9th
11:30PM - 1:00PM 

MOHAI Dolls 

A MOHAI doll is a Messenger of Hope and Inspiration. It is a doll that you create using scrap material, old jewelry and your imagination. Once created, your doll will take on a personality that resonates within you, giving you power, words of wisdom or inspiration. The process of making a doll invites you to search inward to see what it is that is important to you. Come and partake in the magic making. 

Suggested Supplies: All materials will be provided, if there is something that you would like to bring to personalize it, please do so.

Teaching Artist: Kim Cyr

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday , December 19, 2025
11:30AM - 1:00PM

The Sacred Art of Belly Dance

Discover the joy, beauty, and empowerment of belly dance in this gentle, fun, and low-impact class designed especially for older adults. Perfect for beginners and first-timers, the class uses stretching, breathing, shimmies, and flowing movements to build strength, flexibility, balance, and core stability while connecting with inner wisdom and celebrating female empowerment in a supportive community. Come join in and explore the sacred art of belly dance.

Your teacher, Donnalee Singer, brings more than 40 years of performance and choreography experience, along with training in the Serena method, to create a safe and inviting space for individuals to try something new.

Teaching Artist: Donnalee Singer

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday December 12th
11:30am - 1:30PM

Join Lisa Trujillo for a 2-hour SOUL COLLAGE workshop where you will tap into your inner world using intuition, imagery and expressive art.  Lisa is a certified Social Emotional Arts Facilitator from UCLA’s trauma-informed program.  

This is a three part workshop

Part 1:  Dance or move to inspirational music.  A relaxed body makes it easier for ideas, images and emotions to flow.

Part 2:  Create the Soul Collage with materials and prompts provided.

Part 3:  Share your project/process with the group if you want.   

THIS WORKSHOP IS FOR

Anyone who wants to reconnect with themselves

People navigating change, growth and healing

Creative souls who love meaningful art 

All supplies are provided-just come with an open heart and willingness to explore!  No art or dance experience needed.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday, December 5th
12:00PM - 2:00PM

Amazing cuts and folds

Amazing Cuts and Folds
Discover how to turn a single sheet of paper into an amazing handmade book in this hands-on workshop with Renée Richetts! Learn cutting and folding techniques to create a functional book, then add paper bead embellishments to make it uniquely yours. Perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike. All materials and tools provided—just bring your creativity and curiosity. Don’t miss this fun and inspiring class!

This class is designed to be fun, social, and relaxed, making it a perfect way to spend a creative afternoon. We can't wait to see the amazing creations you'll bring to life! Whether you're making a personal journal, a gift, or just enjoying the art of crafting, you’re in for a fantastic time.

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Thursday , December 4th
12:00PM - 2:00PM

Talk & Tea: Opening Reception for The Art of Teaching, The Heart of the Community

Join us for a warm and welcoming kickoff to our 20th-anniversary exhibition, The Art of Teaching, The Heart of the Community. This special Talk & Tea opening brings together the artists who inspire us daily—our teaching artists—for an afternoon of art, conversation, and celebration.

Enjoy light tea service as you explore a vibrant collection of works created by the instructors who nurture creativity at the core of our mission. Hear directly from the artists during casual talks throughout the event, and take part in a friendly meet-and-greet with our director, Andi Woolley.

This gathering is all about connection—thanking our teaching artists, inviting our community into their creative process, and celebrating the people whose talent, passion, and dedication shape the heart of our organization.

Come sip, mingle, and celebrate 20 years of creativity with us.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday, November 21
12:00PM - 2:00PM

triangle tunnel book

Description

Create a Stunning 2-Triangle Tunnel Book Join Renée Richetts for a hands-on workshop where you’ll craft a unique 2-triangle tunnel book with a striking 3D effect. Explore depth, structure, and creativity as you build an interactive book that unfolds into a layered visual scene. Perfect for gifts or artistic display! All materials and tools provided—just bring your imagination. No experience needed. Come create something spectacular!

The possibilities for customization are endless – think colorful paper, embellishments, and more! All materials and tools will be provided, so all you need to bring is your creativity and excitement.

This class is designed to be fun, social, and relaxed, making it a perfect way to spend a creative afternoon. We can't wait to see the amazing creations you'll bring to life! Whether you're making a personal journal, a gift, or just enjoying the art of crafting, you’re in for a fantastic time.

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday, November 14th
12:00PM - 2:00PM

Make and Take a Lovely Folded Concertina Book with Pockets
Join us at the Front Porch Gallery for a hands-on, creative experience!

Get ready to craft a beautiful folded concertina book with pockets in this fun and interactive workshop led by the talented Renée Richetts . This class is perfect for all skill levels, whether you're a seasoned crafter or new to bookbinding!

You'll learn how to create your very own unique concertina book that folds out beautifully, with pockets for storing little treasures or keepsakes. The possibilities for customization are endless – think colorful paper, embellishments, and more! All materials and tools will be provided, so all you need to bring is your creativity and excitement.

This class is designed to be fun, social, and relaxed, making it a perfect way to spend a creative afternoon. We can't wait to see the amazing creations you'll bring to life! Whether you're making a personal journal, a gift, or just enjoying the art of crafting, you’re in for a fantastic time.

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Friday 7th November
11:30am - 1:30PM

Join Lisa Trujillo for a 2-hour Timeline of Your Life workshop! Using color, texture, and drawing, you'll create a visual timeline of your life’s journey in a safe, creative space. This self-guided experience encourages reflection, insight, and connection with your inner wisdom. Lisa is a certified Social Emotional Arts Facilitator from UCLA’s trauma-informed program. No art experience needed—just bring your curiosity and openness! Hosted at the Front Porch Gallery, where creativity and healing meet.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Thursday , October 23rd
12:00PM - 1:00PM

They will speak to a selection of paintings, offering personal insights into the creative prompts that inspired them. Through this discussion, they'll reflect on the lessons they learned, the objects they created, and the artistic processes they explored.

This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the artists about their journeys, challenges, and discoveries throughout the making of this exhibit.

A short video preview of the participating artists will also be available on our website ahead of the talk.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Thursdays
2:00 - 3:00 pm PT

Calling all Group Leaders and Activity Directors!

Join our virtual sessions to learn more about Gallery Takeover, our annual collaborative, community-based arts exhibition. This year’s theme, "Hope Thrives," explores creativity as a powerful tool for adaptation and resilience.

Hosted by the Creative Engagement team at Front Porch, these live virtual sessions will walk you through the project, demonstrate creative techniques, and provide the support you need to bring the experience back to your own community.

You're welcome to create along with us—materials are listed below—but feel free to join whether or not you have supplies on hand.

Watch the 2025 Hope Thrives Creative Aging Symposium 

Project: Mandala of Nourishment and Lantern of Hope

Materials needed: Paper, Paint, Cut Veggies, Ballon, Tissue Paper, Glue

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Your generous donation keeps programs like Virtual Studio free and accessible to all.

Image: Watercolor painting sample from the Relaxing with Watercolors Virtual Studio workshop by Teaching Artist Joyce Nojima.

Thursday , October 16th
1:00PM - 3:00PM

A workshop of creative expression and inner calm

Join us for a peaceful and inspiring two-hour workshop where Persian calligraphy, poetry, and mindfulness come together in a unique cultural and creative experience. Guided by Dr. Yasaman Mostajeran, participants will explore the flowing beauty of Persian script and reflect on the poetic wisdom of Rumi, Hafez, and Saadi.

This workshop blends meditative writing exercises, guided breathwork, and group reflection, creating space for self-expression, emotional balance, and a deeper connection to Persian literary and artistic traditions.

What You’ll Experience:

• A calming introduction to Persian calligraphy and poetry as spiritual art forms

• Mindfulness through breath and verse, with readings from Rumi or Hafez

• Hands-on calligraphy practice using bamboo pens and ink

• Space to personalize your calligraphy with your own poetic interpretation

• Group reflection and sharing for those who wish to participate

• A take-home calligraphy piece and printed Persian poem

All materials provided. No experience necessary.

About the Facilitator:

Yasaman Mostajeran, PhD, is a child and adolescent psychotherapist and member of Persian Place. Her work integrates the healing power of art and the depth of Persian mysticism, offering a safe, welcoming space for personal growth and creative exploration.

Hosted by Persian Place

Persian Place is a Carlsbad-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving and sharing Persian art and culture through workshops, events, and educational programming.

Come as you are and leave feeling centered, inspired, and connected.

Teaching Artist: Yasaman Mostajeran, PhD

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Thursdays
2:00 - 3:00 pm PT

Calling all Group Leaders and Activity Directors!

Join our virtual sessions to learn more about Gallery Takeover, our annual collaborative, community-based arts exhibition. This year’s theme, "Hope Thrives," explores creativity as a powerful tool for adaptation and resilience.

Hosted by the Creative Engagement team at Front Porch, these live virtual sessions will walk you through the project, demonstrate creative techniques, and provide the support you need to bring the experience back to your own community.

You're welcome to create along with us—materials are listed below—but feel free to join whether or not you have supplies on hand.

Watch the 2025 Hope Thrives Creative Aging Symposium 

Project: Cosmic Perspective and Life Kite

Materials needed: Paper, Paint, Pens/Markers, Collage materials, Scissors, Glue

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Your generous donation keeps programs like Virtual Studio free and accessible to all.

Image: Watercolor painting sample from the Relaxing with Watercolors Virtual Studio workshop by Teaching Artist Joyce Nojima.

Thursdays
2:00 - 3:00 pm PT

Calling all Group Leaders and Activity Directors!

Join our virtual sessions to learn more about Gallery Takeover, our annual collaborative, community-based arts exhibition. This year’s theme, "Hope Thrives," explores creativity as a powerful tool for adaptation and resilience.

Hosted by the Creative Engagement team at Front Porch, these live virtual sessions will walk you through the project, demonstrate creative techniques, and provide the support you need to bring the experience back to your own community.

You're welcome to create along with us—materials are listed below—but feel free to join whether or not you have supplies on hand.

Watch the 2025 Hope Thrives Creative Aging Symposium 

PROJECT: Lotus Rising

Materials needed: 3 paper plates and a paper cup; Paints (tempera preferred; acrylic or watercolor will work); Brushes and Glue.

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Your generous donation keeps programs like Virtual Studio free and accessible to all.

Image: Watercolor painting sample from the Relaxing with Watercolors Virtual Studio workshop by Teaching Artist Joyce Nojima.

Friday , September 19, 2025
11:30AM - 1:00PM

The Sacred Art of Belly Dance

Discover the joy, beauty, and empowerment of belly dance in this gentle, fun, and low-impact class designed especially for older adults. Perfect for beginners and first-timers, the class uses stretching, breathing, shimmies, and flowing movements to build strength, flexibility, balance, and core stability while connecting with inner wisdom and celebrating female empowerment in a supportive community. Come join in and explore the sacred art of belly dance.

Your teacher, Donnalee Singer, brings more than 40 years of performance and choreography experience, along with training in the Serena method, to create a safe and inviting space for individuals to try something new.

Teaching Artist: Donnalee Singer

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome

Thursday, September 11, 2025
2:00pM - 4:00PM
Mini-Museum Making

Thursday, September 11, 2025
2:00PM - 4:00PM

Spend the afternoon curating and designing a personalized pocket-sized museum-in-a-box!  Inspired by CARL, Front Porch Gallery’s Free Little Art Museum, flat-lay portraits, and the tradition of “cabinets of curiosity”, participants will artfully choose and arrange a small “collection” of tiny objects for display within a small container or box. In the second half of the workshop, participants will write fictitious descriptions for the pieces they have selected to contextualize their inclusion and provide viewers with additional information about their “importance”. This workshop is designed to help train your eye, increase your skills of curation, and to spark curiosity in everyday things.  

NOTE: Participants will be strongly encouraged to hide the museums they make as part of a “free art drop” in the real world for others to discover and perhaps keep! 

Your instructor, Park Cofield, brings years of experience creating and sharing #freeart museums in Atlanta, Los Angeles, and all over the world in his travels. 

Materials/Supplies: Materials will be provided, but feel free to bring along a small container of your choice (mint tins are great), as well as any tiny items, knick-knacks or curiosities that you’d like to incorporate

Teaching Artist: Park Cofield

Registration: Free | RSVP is Essential

Donate: The workshop is free, donations are welcome