These Creative Expressions workshops are designed for people experiencing mental health issues to connect with family and friends, create common ground, and strengthen positive coping skills through self-expression.

These workshops are currently being offered in-person and virtually. All workshops are free, safe and confidential places to talk things through with others who understand your experience, and they are led by people who have had similar experiences.

Creative Expressions has helped to bridge the communication gap with my family. After each project, I text a photo of my work to [them]. This gives me something to be proud of and gives my family a way to support and encourage me.”

Please note, pre-registration is required.

You can find the dates of upcoming sessions on our calendar. Those planning to participate should RSVP to kzientek@namitoledo.org to receive information for the class, including updates about the project type, details about where to pick up supplies, and a Zoom meeting invitation (if applicable).

Create Now art workshops (15+)

Come and explore a variety of art techniques and experience the power of art while connecting with others. This FREE art workshop features a different project/support theme every month.

• • Open to individuals 15+ living with a mental health diagnosis and their family and friends.
  • Offered IN PERSON on the 3rd Thursday of every month from 5:15pm to 7:15pm located at the Main Library. 
  • Limited Space! Registration required at kzientek@namitoledo.org.
  • Find an upcoming Creative Expressions class on the Events Page.

Creative Kids Virtual Workshop (6-12 years old)

Creative Kids virtual art workshop provides an opportunity for children and adolescents who are living with a mental illness and their siblings to express themselves creatively through art and identify positive coping skills!

• Open to children and adolescents aged 6-12 with a mental health diagnosis and their family and friends within age range.
• Offered IN PERSON on the 3rd Tuesday of every month from 5:00pm to 6:15pm at NAMI Office.
• Find an Upcoming Support Group on Events Page.

Virtual Art Workshop (18+)

Come and explore a variety of art techniques and experience the power of art while connecting with others. This FREE virtual art workshop is offered in partnership with the Thomas M. Wernert Center and features a different painting/ support theme every month. 

• Open to adults (18+) a mental health diagnosis and their family and friends within age range.
• Offered virtually on the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 10:00am to 11:30am via ZOOM.
• Materials will be provided and delivered to your home. (Must be from Lucas County).
• Find an Upcoming Support Group on Events Page.

Virtual Art Workshop with Uncork the Artist (13+)

Come and experience the power of art while connecting with others. This FREE virtual art workshop is offered in partnership with Uncork The Artist Toledo and features a different painting quarterly.

• • Open to teens and adults (13+) with a mental health diagnosis and their family and friends within age range.
  • Offered virtually 4x/year from 5:00pm to 7:00pm  via ZOOM.
  • Art kit must be picked up during designated days/times.
  • Find an Upcoming Support Group on Events Page.