Darien Arts Center Presents Winter Visual Arts Workshops for Kids

Darien, CT — The Darien Arts Center (DAC) is offering a series of hands-on visual arts workshops for children this winter, inviting young artists to explore new materials, techniques, and creative ideas in a fun and supportive studio environment. Designed for a range of grade levels, these afternoon workshops provide an engaging after-school opportunity for kids to create, learn, and express themselves through art.

The season begins on January 21 with Gel Plate Printmaking for students in grades 4–7, held from 4:00–5:30 p.m. Using acrylic paint, brayer rollers, and gel plates, students will experiment with layering color, texture, and image transfers. They’ll create botanical and floral prints using leaves, petals, stems, and geometric stencils. Finished prints can be framed as individual artworks or used in collages. This accessible and playful process introduces printmaking in a way that’s both educational and fun.

On January 28, students in grades 2–4 are invited to create Snowman Luminaries from 4:00–5:15 p.m. In this workshop, kids will decorate mason jars with faux snow, snowman faces, and cozy ear warmers. Each luminary will be finished with a battery-powered tea light, creating a glowing winter decoration that can be displayed at home.

The next workshop, Pet Portraits, takes place on February 4 from 4:00–5:30 p.m. for students in grades 5–7. Young artists are encouraged to bring in a photo of a beloved pet or favorite animal. Guided by instructor Miss Cara, students will learn how to draw and paint their subject using a variety of media. The workshop emphasizes observation, creativity, and personal expression, resulting in a finished artwork students can be proud of.

Rounding out the winter offerings is Valentine’s Day Frames on February 11, from 4:00–5:15 p.m. for students in grades 1–4. Children will decorate their own picture frames using paint, markers, stickers, buttons, and glitter glue. This festive workshop encourages creativity while helping students develop fine motor skills, and the finished frames make meaningful keepsakes or gifts.

All workshops are held at the Darien Arts Center. Students may bring a water bottle and a nut-free snack if they choose. Space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged. More workshops will be announced in the coming weeks.

To learn more or register, visit darienarts.org or contact the Darien Arts Center directly at (203) 655-8683 or email info@darienarts.org

About the Darien Arts Center:

Founded in 1975, the Darien Arts Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, promoting and providing the means of artistic expression in dance, music, visual arts and theatre for members of the community of all ages. The Darien Arts Center is funded exclusively by tuition, ticket sales and donations. Please support the arts in Darien by making a donation to the Darien Arts Center, volunteering on committees, participating in our programs and attending our events.