Explore Your Creative Self – Visual Journaling & Mindful Art
Student-artists in grades 6–8 are invited to discover their unique voice through visual journaling, mindful art activities, and creative “self-portraits.” In this class, young artists will use sketchbooks—not just for practicing techniques—but as a way to express feelings and ideas visually. For example, students might be given an emotion like “joy” and will spend time filling a journal page with colors, patterns, and images that capture that feeling.
We’ll also introduce calming mindfulness art exercises, such as neurographic drawing, where students create flowing, intersecting lines and transform them into colorful, intricate patterns. These activities help students relax, focus, and explore their inner creativity without the pressure of technical portrait drawing.
Throughout the program, we’ll explore what it means to use visual art to express your inner self and create works that celebrate your unique individuality. By the end, students will curate their own mini art exhibit, showcasing their process and unique creations—a true celebration of self-expression. Student Art Show will be held on December 12, 2025.
All materials are provided.
We offer confidential Card to Culture scholarships to help make our programs accessible to everyone. For details, please call our office—we’re happy to assist you! Office: 978-877-6933
Andrea Wilson will serve as the Arts Elevate: Artist-in-Residence for Youth Wellness in Greater Lowell. This program is supported by the Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) in partnership with the Barr Foundation. Andrea Wilson will be part of The Umbrella’s 2025-2026 Artist-in-Residence cohort.
Andrea Wilson is an artist-educator residing in Groton, MA with her husband, three children and golden retriever, Tanner. Her current body of mixed media work focuses on the expression of grief, loss and healing. In her work with middle school students in the Groton-Dunstable school district, she implements a TAB pedagogy, which considers the student as the artist and the classroom as their studio. Student voice and agency plays an important role in the classroom, as she feels that art holds great power for young people to communicate their identities and views of the world during this pivotal time in their development. She obtained her BFA from UMass Amherst with a concentration in architectural design and a minor in art history. She also holds a MEd from UMass Boston. When not teaching or making art, Andrea enjoys reading everything she can get her hands on and attending her children’s softball and baseball games.
Andrea Wilson
No Class Nov 11
