Canvas of Calm: Turning Stress Into Art

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About

This multi-material creative workshop is designed for teens and adults (children aged 8+ with parent accompaniment), aiming to help participants visually express their personal experiences of stress and calm. The purpose is to connect art with emotional validation and stress measurement, using various well-known stress scales.

Materials:

• Mini canvas (4x4 or 5x5 inches)

• Acrylic paints, watercolour pencils, markers, glue, and collage materials

• Stress scale guide, validation stickers, and mini magnets for display

• Optional: QR code or handouts with stress coping tools

Steps:

1. Stress Check-In (5-15 min): Participants assess their stress level using a visual scale or, for adults, established

scales like the Holmes and Rahe, Perceived Stress Scale, Daily Hassles, or Job Stress Index.

2. Canvas Creation (25–45 min): Participants create abstract or symbolic art representing their stress, using colours,

shapes, and textures to express intensity and emotions.

3. Reflection & Validation (5–10 min): After completing their artwork, participants reflect on what helps them manage

stress, writing an affirmation or coping strategy on the canvas. A second canvas, titled "What Calm Looks Like," offers

participants a chance to explore calm through art, paired with stress-relief resources.

4. Take-Home Value: The mini canvas serves as a reminder that stress is valid, and creative expression can be a tool

for emotional grounding.

Register for one of three start times: 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., or 2:00 p.m. at [email protected]. Walk-ins may be accommodated.

Organizer

City of Niagara Falls Culture

Niagara Falls Culture endeavours to promote an awareness of and appreciation for arts, cultural, and heritage activities within our community.