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

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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 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.

Pattern. Texture. Collage. | Kelly Jean Ohl
February 11
Play with monochromatic patterns and textures in the style of the stunning ceramic forms created by 2024 Wisconsin Biennial winner, Kelly Jean Ohl. Sharing the inspiration behind her work, she will lead the group in creating individual paper collages, which will then be combined into one large installation. Ohl will give an informal gallery talk about her work at the end of the session.

Breaking Apart and Pulling Together: Processing Grief | Jennifer Bastian
March 4
While everyone experiences grief and loss differently, art making can be a starting point for managing life changes. Drawing on her own experiences working through grief through textile art, Jennifer Bastian explores how making art—such as a paper quilt block design—can help with processing.

Bird Parade: Intention Setting Workshop | Hattie Grimm
April 1
Join us for an all-ages art experience led by artist and educator Hattie Grimm. Create a personalized bird puppet inspired by a personal intention, then bring it to life in an outdoor parade filled with movement, sound, and shared joy. Participants will receive an artist-designed take-home art kit to continue creative reflection at home. Drop-in art-making 10:00–12:00. Parade at 12:00.

Art+Wellness is sponsored by

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

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.

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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.

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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