Pop-Up Art: Botanical Collage

FREE Family Fest in Raleigh — Saturday, September 12! Looking for a full day of family fun, creativity, connection, and outdoor adventure? Join us for the 3rd Annual Family Fest at Lakeside Retreats! Optional overnight Camping 📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026 ⏰ 8:00 AM–9:00 PM 📍 4521 Mial Plantation Road, Raleigh, NC 27610 🎟️ FREE admission Enjoy a day filled with: 🔥 Fire show 🎨 Art activities 🥋 Martial arts class 🫧 Bubbles 🧘 Yoga and sound bath 🌲 Forest bathing 🏕️ S’mores and optional overnight camping 🍴 Food trucks and vendors 💛 Sensory yurt 🎤 Guest speakers 🏆 Tug of war …and so much more!

Experience the vibrant creative spirit of Chatham County at The Plant in Pittsboro. Nestled within the unique setting of Fair Game Beverage Company, Poetry at The Plant invites poets, writers, and literary enthusiasts to join a monthly gathering dedicated to the spoken word. This event series offers a welcoming stage for performers to share their original compositions or favorite pieces in an intimate and encouraging atmosphere. Whether you are a seasoned poet looking to showcase your work or an appreciative listener wanting to experience local talent, this recurring event is the perfect mid-week cultural escape. Beyond the poetry sessions, Fair Game Beverage Company stands as a premier destination for those who appreciate locally sourced wine and spirits. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the relaxing environment while engaging with our creative community. This is a free event designed to foster connection and artistic expression in a professional yet relaxed venue. We invite you to join us on the second Wednesday of every month to celebrate the power of language. Visit our website today to learn more about our upcoming schedule and join our growing community of artists.

This class teaches the fundamental techniques required to create pattern welded steel, commonly known as Damascus. You will learn to prepare, stack, and forge weld alternating layers of 1084 and 15N20 steel to produce a custom eight layer billet. Throughout the session, you will use a high temperature gas forge to fuse your metal layers. You will also practice manipulating the steel by twisting it to develop unique patterns. Each participant will complete the course with a finished billet suitable for crafting items like bottle openers, bracelets, or small knives. The process provides hands on experience with advanced blacksmithing techniques. This workshop is designed for those who have already completed the Forging Intro class. Please be prepared for strenuous physical activity, as you will be swinging a heavy hammer to forge high carbon steel by hand. We recommend that attendees possess basic MIG welding skills to assist with metal preparation. If you meet these prerequisites and are ready to advance your blacksmithing capabilities, please register to secure your spot in this intensive forge session.

This orientation provides comprehensive training on the basic operation and safety procedures for the CNC router. Participants will gain the technical skills required to independently operate the machine for various creative projects. The session is designed to transform complex digital designs into physical reality through precision automated cutting and carving techniques. During this hands-on workshop, you will learn to power the machine, secure your material, and navigate the Easel software interface. You will walk through the entire workflow, from drafting initial design concepts to programming specific cut parameters. Every attendee will practice these skills by creating a personalized wooden coaster featuring their own initials, ensuring direct experience with the machine setup and execution process. This class is ideal for makers, artists, and hobbyists who want to expand their fabrication capabilities. The atmosphere is collaborative and focused, providing a supportive environment for beginners to master new equipment. Space is limited to ensure personalized instruction for every participant. Register today to secure your spot and start bringing your intricate design concepts to life using professional industrial tools.

If you're looking for a cultural outing this summer, the 31st Annual Juried Exhibition hosted by the Fine Arts League of Cary is one of the most anticipated art events in the Triangle. Held at the historic Page-Walker Arts & History Center in Cary, this highly competitive exhibition showcases some of the best artistic talent from across North Carolina and beyond - and it's completely free to attend. A wide range of two-dimensional art, from abstract to realism Paintings, drawings, and mixed media pieces Artwork created by both emerging and established regional artists All pieces are available for purchase, making this a great opportunity to introduce kids to art collecting or find a unique piece for your home. Key Dates & Details Submission Period (for artists): April 15 – June 15, 2026 Exhibition Dates: June 30 – September 14, 2026 Location: Page-Walker Arts & History Center, Cary Admission: Free Gallery Hours: Monday–Thursday: Noon – 9:00 PM Friday: Noon – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Sunday: Closed The exhibition continues to grow each year. In 2025 alone: Over 650 entries were submitted More than 230 artists participated Only around 70 works were selected

In the Moment is a monthly program designed for individuals living with memory changes and their care partners. This series facilitates meaningful connections and lifelong learning through interactive experiences led by cultural institutions from across North Carolina. This session focuses on the sounds of North Carolina. Participants will explore the state's cultural heritage by examining artwork from artists who lived or worked in the region. The program highlights the music and activities that have defined North Carolina's history. Attendees will engage in guided conversations and creative expressions inspired by these artistic pieces, creating an accessible environment that celebrates regional identity through visual and auditory discovery. This program is specifically tailored for those managing memory changes, ensuring a supportive and comfortable setting for everyone involved. We encourage you to join us for an afternoon of shared inspiration and community connection. This event provides a unique opportunity to explore culture in an inclusive atmosphere. Please register in advance to reserve your space for this enriching monthly experience. We look forward to welcoming you and your care partner to our next session.

Experience the beauty and inspiration of the Nasher Museum of Art from the comfort of your own home with our monthly Reflections Virtual Tour. Designed specifically for individuals living with dementia and their care partners, this accessible program offers an inviting space to explore and discuss captivating artworks via Zoom. Each session provides a thoughtfully curated experience that emphasizes inclusivity and engagement in a relaxed environment. Our professional team facilitates these interactive discussions to ensure every participant feels welcome and valued. By joining this virtual gathering, you can connect with others, explore new themes, and enjoy the transformative power of art without the need for travel. It is a wonderful opportunity to stimulate memory and foster meaningful social connections in a supportive setting. Registration is required to receive the access link for this free monthly event. To secure your spot, please contact our team via email at reflections at duke dot edu. We invite you to join our vibrant community for this enriching cultural experience and discover how art can brighten your day.