Artist-led workshops
Art, Pattern & Connection
For more than a decade, multidisciplinary artist Bala Thiagarajan has guided participants through hands-on workshops exploring pattern, repetition, creativity, and contemplation.
Drawing on South Asian artistic traditions and her own studio practice, Bala introduces participants to mandala painting and kolam. These workshops make space for personal expression, cultural learning, and the pleasure of creating together. No previous artistic experience is necessary.
Mandala Painting Workshops
Explore the meditative qualities of mandala painting through color, symmetry, and repetition. In this guided workshop, participants create personal mandalas on canvas, developing original patterns and compositions through acrylic painting.
Derived from the Sanskrit word for “circle,” mandalas have long been associated with contemplation and wholeness. The process invites participants to slow down, focus on their mark-making, and explore creative expression in a supportive group setting.
Each participant paints a 12" × 12" stretched canvas and takes the finished work home.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Group size: 10–15 participants
- Ages: 16+
- Experience: No prior experience required
- Materials: Canvas, acrylic paints, and supplies included
- Pricing: Available upon inquiry
Kolam & Rangoli Workshops
Explore kolam, a traditional South Indian floor-drawing practice rooted in rhythm, repetition, and everyday ritual. Participants learn to create geometric designs using arrangements of dots and lines, beginning with chalk-based patterns and progressing to colored sand.
The workshop introduces kolam as a living, temporary art form, exploring the cultural significance of patterns created, shared, and remade. Sessions are typically held outdoors, with an indoor paper-based adaptation available when needed.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Group size: 10–15 participants
- Ages: 10+
- Experience: No prior experience required
- Materials: Chalk, colored sand, and supplies included
- Setting: Outdoor, with indoor adaptation available
- Pricing: Available upon inquiry
Workshops for Groups & Organizations
Workshops are available for adult groups, corporate and team-building programs, museums, and cultural organizations. Formats can be discussed to suit the group and setting.
Plan a Workshop
Interested in hosting an artist-led mandala painting or kolam workshop? Please get in touch with your organization, preferred dates, and approximate group size. All materials are included; pricing is provided upon inquiry.
