Challenging Times Series: Connecting Through Creativity and Conversation

We live in a time of uncertainty, especially in a presidential election season. In challenging times, art and creative thinking play critical roles, reflecting the world’s complexities and fostering dialogue.

How can we create a safe space for community interaction and sharing experiences? How can we build lasting support systems?

In an effort to harness the healing power of the arts, the Challenging Times Series, led by the Crafts Center in partnership with The Gregg Museum of Art & Design and Arts NC State, was created. 

Where:  The Gregg Museum of Art & Design, 1903 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC, 27607 Douglas S. Witcher, Sunroom #155

When:    Specific dates listed below with each topic.

Time:     11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Sessions are free to participants but sign-up is required. 

You may attend one session or many sessions (space permitting) and do not need to attend sessions in order. Each session will be limited to 15 participants. 

CLICK HERE for sign up details

Through artistic engagement, students and community members will contribute to meaningful dialogue, raise awareness and inspire change.

Each session explores a theme, incorporating artistic creation, conversation and collaboration. Read about each session below. Sessions are led by Melinda Abrams, MSA, BFA, CPCC, artist.

About Melinda Abrams:

Melinda leads the Crafts Center’s My Intent Project and MovingLeaders, offering experiential training and development programs. Her focus is on authentic communication, trust building, conflict resolution and guiding individuals through change with dignity and self-respect.

Note: These sessions support well-being but do not replace professional mental health care. Light snacks and art materials will be provided. These sessions are sponsored by the Crafts Center, Arts NC State and Gregg Museum of Art & Design.

Session Schedule

Where:  The Gregg Museum of Art & Design, 1903 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC, 27607 Douglas S. Witcher, Sunroom #155

Time:     11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Sessions are free to participants but sign-up is required. 

You may attend one session or many sessions (space permitting) and do not need to attend sessions in order. Each session will be limited to 15 participants. 

CLICK HERE for sign up details

SESSION 1: Friday, Sept. 6
Topic: Community Building: Foster a supportive community for sharing experiences, resources, and encouragement

In this opening session, participants establish a safe environment to explore and create collaboratively. They share their current artistic endeavors and preferences, exchange ideas for mutual support and envision contributions to the community.

During discussions, each participant starts a canvas using their chosen medium. Every eight minutes, they pass their canvas to the right, discussing the evolving artwork and its significance to them.

SESSION 2: Friday, Sept. 20
Topic: Resilience and Resolution: Find inner peace amidst chaos through art creation

Participants paint or draw while engaging in conversation. Each person receives a set of 2×2 wood squares to decorate freely. During the latter part of the session, participants exchange squares, culminating in each individual departing with a mosaic comprising contributions from everyone in the group.

SESSION 3: Friday, Oct. 11
Topic: Mindfulness and Wellness: Incorporate mental health practices into art making

Practices such as mindfulness, meditation and self-care can aid in maintaining resilience during difficult periods. Today, we emphasize self-care through mindfulness, meditation and artistic expression. The session commences with a guided meditation followed by art creation, allowing each participant to choose their preferred medium.

SESSION 4: Friday, Nov. 8
Topic: Social Engagement: Explore art’s role in activism and advocacy

During this session we will talk and make art regarding this particular moment in time.  

SESSION 5: Friday, Nov. 22
Topic: Encourage engagement with social issues through art

Social Engagement:
Encouraging artists to engage with pressing social questions through their work, using art as a tool for advocacy, reflection and belonging.

The session will commence with a panel discussion featuring guest speakers. Following the panel presentation, attendees will break into small groups for direct interaction with the panelists. Participants are encouraged to exchange ideas and explore potential collaborations.

Details regarding panelists will be shared later. Please bring any relevant images or links you wish to share.

SESSION 6: Friday, Dec. 6
Topic: Imagining Alternative Futures: Speculative thinking and creative brainstorming through art

Art provides a distinct capability to envision unrealized worlds, offering hope and inspiration for innovative possibilities, even amidst adversity. Today, we reflect on our achievements in 2024 and contemplate future directions for 2025.

Each participant will craft their own mixed media vision board.

Contact: For questions, please contact the Crafts Center at 919.515.2457.