Art and Blooms at the JCRA: Garden Pathways

Meditation in the Garden is a restorative outdoor workshop focused on mindfulness and stress reduction. This session teaches participants how to use the natural environment to build a consistent meditation practice and foster mental clarity. You will learn practical techniques to help ground yourself and manage daily tension in a peaceful setting. During this workshop, you will participate in guided meditation sessions and body awareness exercises. We incorporate gentle movement and journaling to help you process your experiences and deepen your connection with nature. These tools are designed to be accessible for all skill levels and can be easily integrated into your personal routine at home. This event is ideal for anyone seeking a break from a busy schedule or those looking to explore meditation in a supportive community atmosphere. We welcome both beginners and experienced practitioners to join us for this morning of calm. Please come dressed in comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor seating and bring a notebook for reflection. Secure your spot now to experience the lasting benefits of this tranquil garden retreat.

Art and Blooms at the JCRA is a hands-on workshop dedicated to creating handmade flower-themed greeting cards. Participants will explore painting techniques to design custom, whimsical landscapes under the guidance of volunteer artist Debra Singer-Harter. This session offers a creative space to practice blending watercolors on card stock to produce personalized artistic stationery. You will receive all necessary materials, including three blank cards, brushes, and watercolor paints. Throughout the two-hour experience, you will learn to build vibrant garden and mountain scenes starting from simple lines. No prior drawing or painting experience is required, making this session perfect for beginners looking to learn basic color blending techniques in a supportive, creative environment. Whether you are a hobbyist or someone seeking a relaxing afternoon, this class provides a structured yet expressive way to engage with art. The workshop focuses on individual style, ensuring each attendee leaves with three unique cards. Space is limited to ensure personal guidance for every participant. Register now to secure your spot and enjoy a productive, artistic session at the JCRA.

This hands-on workshop teaches you the fundamental techniques for propagating woody ornamental plants using softwood stem cuttings. Participants will gain the skills necessary to expand their home gardens inexpensively while learning proper methods for growing new plants from existing collections. The session begins with a classroom overview covering rooting hormones and essential cutting techniques. You will then move into the gardens for a practical demonstration of how to harvest healthy cuttings. Following this, you will apply these methods in a supervised practice session using a selection of plants optimized for successful rooting. Every participant will leave the workshop with a complete tray of cuttings sourced directly from the JC Raulston Arboretum collection. This event is perfect for beginners or anyone interested in the science and hobby of plant propagation. The atmosphere is collaborative, educational, and focused on building your confidence as a gardener. Join us to learn how to turn simple cuttings into thriving new plants. Please register early to secure your spot for this practical and engaging horticultural experience.

In the Moment is an interactive pilot program that provides engaging cultural experiences for individuals living with memory changes and their care partners. This initiative connects participants through the exploration of art, history, and science in a supportive setting. Each session offers hands-on, sensory-rich activities designed to spark curiosity and meaningful discussion. Participants will explore themes related to the natural world and North Carolina culture while utilizing resources from state institutions. The program draws on expertise from the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of History, and the North Carolina Zoo and Botanical Gardens to ensure diverse and high-quality programming. This recurring program is tailored specifically for those navigating memory changes and those who support them. The atmosphere is welcoming, social, and intentionally paced to foster connection and expression. Whether you are looking to discover new interests or enjoy a shared experience, this program provides a unique opportunity to engage with your community. We invite you to join us for these sessions to discover how culture and connection can enrich daily life. Please register to participate in this upcoming series.

This one day workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to knife making through the stock removal method. Participants will learn to transform a piece of high carbon steel into a finished knife under the guidance of qualified ShopSpace instructors. The curriculum covers the entire production process from initial design layout to final finishing. Students will cut their blade shape, grind bevels, select and attach handle wood, and perform heat treatment. By the end of the session, each attendee will complete and take home their own custom knife. Please note that this is a fast paced course designed to keep all students on track within the allotted timeframe. This class is open to anyone who has already completed either the Fabrication Intro or Forging Intro courses. We recommend arriving with a simple knife design in mind to maximize your shop time, though design resources will be available on site. Register today to gain hands on experience with professional tools and master the fundamental techniques of bladesmithing in a collaborative and highly focused environment.

This pottery painting workshop is a self-guided creative session where participants paint their own ceramic pieces. The event offers a relaxed environment to explore artistic expression while working with various ceramic items like animals and trinket dishes. Upon arrival, guests select a ceramic item and receive all necessary painting materials, including brushes and paints. A team remains available throughout the ninety minute session to provide artistic guidance and tips. As a special highlight, attendees are welcome to interact with the resident cats during the creative process. All materials needed for painting are included with the ticket purchase. This workshop is suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it ideal for individuals, friends, and families. Whether you are seeking a solo creative outlet or a unique group activity, the studio provides a cozy atmosphere for everyone. You will leave with a personalized, hand painted ceramic piece to take home. We invite you to join us for an afternoon of fun, creativity, and feline company. Please book your spot in advance to ensure availability for this engaging hands on experience.