This fall, the United States faces one of its most pivotal elections. In uncertain times, art and creative thinking play critical roles, reflecting the world’s complexities and fostering dialogue. Through artistic engagement, students and community members contribute to meaningful dialogue, raise awareness and inspire change. Join Arts NC State, the Crafts Center and the Greg Museum of Art & Design for the Challenging Times Series. Each session will explore a theme, incorporating artistic creation, conversation and collaboration. Attendance is flexible. Artist Melinda Abrams will lead the sessions. The sessions are free to attend, but registration is required.

Session 1: Community Building: Foster a Supportive Community for Sharing Experiences, Resources and Encouragement

During the opening session of the series, participants will establish a safe environment to explore and create collaboratively. They will share their current artistic endeavors and preferences, exchange ideas for mutual support and envision contributions to the community. Each participant will start a canvas using their chosen medium. Every eight minutes, they pass their canvas to the right and discuss the evolving artwork and its significance to them.