MOWA Activities

Activities for Adults

Whether it’s an intriguing conversation with an artist, a provocative lecture on contemporary culture, or a studio class learning a new art technique, MOWA programs offer something for everyone.

Talks and Lectures

Adults

Free for members

From artist talks in the galleries to more formal lectures, innovative thinkers and makers are a staple of MOWA’s ongoing conversation.

Find upcoming talks

Studio Classes

Adults

Registration Required

We pair adult studio classes with current exhibitions and exhibiting artists to encourage fresh ways of looking at and making art. Registration required.

Find upcoming classes

Art+Wellness

Adults

First Wednesday of every month, 10:30–11:30

Art+Wellness is a drop-in series that focuses on topics that promote wellness and inspire a creative life. Free for members, Art+Wellness activities are held on the first Wednesday of the month.

Working Art on Working Land | May 6

The Hay Rake Ballet brings together artists, farmers, and community members in a shared performance that reveals the inherent rhythm and beauty of family-scale farming practices by viewing agricultural labor through the lens of classical dance. Explore ways that art can emerge from a working landscape with Philip Matthews, Managing Director of Wormfarm Institute of Sauk County, then join in defining your own connection to land through collaborative writing and art making.

Loneliness and Social Connection: How Can We Connect Better? | June 3

Have you heard we are living in a loneliness epidemic? Why is that important? Why does it matter? Join UW–Madison Badger Talks speaker Prasanta Verma Anumolu, Community Development Educator and author, as she explores its impact and shares simple ways to build stronger connections in everyday life.

Mind, Body, Art: The Restorative Properties of the Forest | July 1

Spend a little time in the forest with artist Mel Kolstad. During her presentation, she’ll talk about how “forest bathing” has improved her well-being, and how spending time in wooded spaces can improve your outlook. Kolstad will lead the group in a forest-themed collage project.

Art+Wellness is sponsored by

Spark!—Connecting Art to Memory

Adults

Registration Required

Designed for people with early to mid-stage memory loss and their care partners, SPARK! engages participants with interactive cultural experiences that stimulate conversations, provide peer support, and inspire creativity. Free for families to attend. Registration required.

SPARK! on Wednesday
Every Third Wednesday | 10:00–11:30

SPARK! on Sunday
Every Second Sunday | 1:00–2:30
MOWA is offering a Sunday program that encourages grandchildren and extended families to join.

Check out the SPARK! page

 

Art & Chalk Fest 2026

All Ages

August 1–2

This FREE, outdoor, all ages live arts festival is set amidst the museum’s four-acre campus and features artists from the Wisconsin arts community. Art & Chalk Fest is recognized nationally for its competitive live chalk art displays, art-making demonstrations, live music, and plenty to eat and drink.

Learn More

BLOOM 2026

All Ages

November 6–8

BLOOM is an annual floral extravaganza that pairs the ephemeral beauty of florals with the enduring artworks in the galleries. The three-day weekend event ushers in the holiday season with artful displays, floral and environmental demonstrations, and curated shopping.

Learn More

Private Tours

Adults

Registration Required, $15/person

Navigate the periods and concepts of Wisconsin art with a private tour. Our expert guides share background information about artists, present social and historical contexts, and suggest connections to everyday life. $15/person.

Request a Tour

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