The Art of Meaning: Turning Language into Art

Unlock the power of language and creativity in this immersive art workshop where words become your muse. The Art of Meaning invites participants to explore the emotional, symbolic, and visual potential of language through the creation of interpretive artwork inspired by meaningful words, phrases, or quotes. In this hands-on session, you’ll choose a word or quote that resonates with you and use it as the foundation for a unique artistic expression. Through guided exercises, discussion, and experimentation you'll learn how to translate abstract ideas and emotions into powerful visuals.

This workshop is part of ArtStart's 360 Internship Program:

The ArtStart 360 Internship Pilot Program is designed to give an aspiring young artist an opportunity to gain a 360 view of what it is to be a professional artist and arts educator. This year's intern is David Puegeren. He was paired with longtime ArtStart artist Julie Boada. David has assisted and observed in various ArtStart settings; including a residency, festivals, and library programs. He worked with Julie to design and teach a class to teens and we are inviting teens in the community to join them in this free workshop.

David Puegeren is a student at the University of Minnesota and an aspiring contemporary artist based in the Twin Cities. He's excited to intern with Artstart because of their commitment to provide art opportunities to underserved communities.

Julie Boada is an Anishinaabe artist, storyteller, puppeteer and arts educator who is passionate about work that fosters cultural pride and value. She has worked regionally and nationally for the past 30+years, both with HOBT and independently. She is co-founder of Little Coyote Puppet Theater.

Age range: 14+

All materials provided

Class limited to 10 participants.

Sat, Sept. 20, 2025 • 10:30 am-1 pm Fairmount Ave. United Methodist Church

Julie Boada, Anishinaabe from Fond du Lac, introduces the art of beading. Begin your own pair of beautiful beaded earrings for yourself, or as a treasured gift for someone close to you. Note that you may not finish your project within the workshop time. Deadline: Sept. 13, 2025

For teens and adults.

Tuition: $49 + $5 materials fee.

Free: Fall Poetry Series: All Things Being Equal

Our popular poetry series continues! Come celebrate autumn at our cozy ArtScraps store with an evening of art, poetry, and light refreshments. Curated by Patrick Cabello Hansel, author of The Devouring Land, Quitting Time, and Breathing in Minneapolis. Patrick has twice been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and was part of the Mentor Series for the Loft Literary Center. 

All readings at 7:00 PM

In person at ArtStart’s ArtScraps 

All readings are free, but registration is required.

Patrick Cabello Hansel’s poetry collections are The Devouring Land (Main Street Rag Publishing) Quitting Time (Atmosphere Press) and Breathing in Minneapolis (Finishing Line Press). He has published in over 85 journals, including Crannog, Ilanot Review, Hawai’i Pacific Review, and RiverSedge. Nominated three times for the Pushcart Prize, he has won awards from the Loft Literary Center and MN State Arts Board. His novellas Searching and Returning were serialized in 33 issues of The Alley News. He is the founding editor of The Phoenix of Phillips, a literary journal by and for the most diverse community in Minneapolis. artecabellohansel.com

In this vibrant, soul-nourishing workshop, participants will explore storytelling through intuitive writing inspired by oracle cards. Each session begins with a card pull, a spark for the poem already brewing inside you. Using a metaphor map, you’ll learn to elevate your word choice, trust your inner voice, and write with deeper clarity and creative flow. Whether you’re new to poetry or just in need of fresh inspiration, this class is for writers who crave intuition, community, and creativity without limits. 

For teens & adults.

Register for 2 or more classes in this series and receive a $10 gift certificate to ArtScraps!

View more in this series.

Got a poem hiding in your journal that’s begging for a mic? In this high-energy, hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the essential ingredients of a powerful spoken word performance, one layer at a time. We’ll break down what makes a piece powerful on stage: from word choice and vocal delivery to using your body as a dynamic storytelling tool. Whether you’re new to performance or ready to level up your stage presence, this space invites you to bring your full self. Your lived experiences and emotions will become the foundation for poems that don’t just sound good, but are real and true.

For teens & adults.

Register for 2 or more classes in this series and receive a $10 gift certificate to ArtScraps! 

View more in this series.

This healing-centered workshop invites you to explore self-expression and vulnerability through meditative writing, oracle cards, and creative prompts. You’ll craft an intuitive affirmation poem using poetic tools and emotional insight, then transfer your words onto a glass plate with Sharpies, turning your story into visual art. We’ll end with a powerful release: smashing the plates in a symbolic act of breaking free from fear, limits, and old narratives. This is a safe, nurturing space for students, parents, leaders, and creatives ready to process, play, and transform pain into poetry.

For teens & adults.

Register for 2 or more classes in this series and receive a $10 gift certificate to ArtScraps! 

View more in this series.

Come light up your language! In this feel-good fusion of poetry and candle-making, participants will write free-verse self-affirming poems that speak to their truth, purpose, and personal glow. Then, you’ll hand-pour your own custom candle, infused with intention, scent, and style. Leave with a flame that holds your words, and a poem that smells like you on your best day! No experience needed, just bring your brilliance and creativity.

For teens & adults.

Register for 2 or more classes in this series and receive a $10 gift certificate to ArtScraps! 

View more in this series.

Work with artist Gustavo Boada to learn the technique of dry needle felting as you create your favorite symbol of Fall-an owl, bat, pumpkin, cat, moon fairy and more! Use felting tools and colorful roving to create your own wooly wonder.  

Fairmount Ave. United Methodist Church

Saturday, October 18 10:30 am-12:30 pm 

Deadline to register: Oct 11

Adults and Teens

Tuition: $49 + $5 materials fee