Hands-on workshops led by celebrated artists will shift your creativity into high gear. (All photos courtesy of Santa Fe Creative Tourism.) Hands-on workshops led by celebrated artists will shift your creativity into high gear.
(All photos courtesy of Santa Fe Creative Tourism.)

As I roam the winding avenues of Santa Fe, I constantly run smack-dab into a mind-blowing creative marvel by one of the extraordinary artists we’re blessed with here. Almost always, a conversation with the artist ensues, and they share their vision for the piece, and describe how it came to life. The artistic community here is so generous and quick to help inspire others to creativity. A prime example of the shared creative passion here is DIY Santa Fe: A Creative Tourism Journey, an initiative of Santa Fe Creative Tourism, Santa Fe Convention & Visitors Bureau, and the City of Santa Fe Arts Commission. Now through the end of March, Santa Fe artists of every genre and medium you can imagine will be budding artists toward their very own personal expression. So pack your imagination and start creating.

Want to relieve stress? Throw a pot!

Watch your clay creation come to life before your eyes.

Watch your clay creation come to life before your eyes.

As a self-confessed clay-ophile, I can attest that handmade pottery is more than just beautiful decoratively. The process of throwing pottery offers a beautifully visceral artistic experience—and, it’s all kinds of fun. Ceramics with Heidi Loewen Porcelain Gallery will give you a one-on-one demonstration of the centuries-old tradition of wheel-thrown pottery, and help you create an artifact of any size that you’ll treasure the rest of your days. Yes, you’ll experience the sensation of throwing a pot into in the air (repeatedly) and transforming it into your porcelain vision. We’re talking serious fun, folks. You don’t need a lick of experience, just an ample supply of joie de vivre.

If a Picture’s Worth a Thousand Words, a Photo Collage Is Worth a Novel

Master photo collage techniques that will turn memories into enduring art.

Master photo collage techniques that will turn memories into enduring art.

If you’re like me, you’re awash in cherished photos. With the advent of digital photography, our photo collections have become a tidal wave. Why not transform several of these golden memories into a collage that conveys your own personal narrative? In the Photo Collage & Mixed Media Workshop with Gail Buono, you’ll receive guided instruction on how to layout your photos, apply them to paper, and add pastel and watercolor to bring your collage vividly to life. I can tell you from personal experience that Gail Buono is the real deal, artistically speaking. She received her degree in Painting from the acclaimed School of Visual Arts in New York City, and was awarded two painting fellowships from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, and her work has appeared in exhibitions throughout the U.S. and Europe. Gail is the perfect person to help unlock your inner collagist.

No Boundaries: Now That’s Art

Abstract Painting will open your mind to new artistic frontiers.

Abstract Painting will open your mind to new artistic frontiers.

Making the leap artistically from, say, painting still lifes to the more personal, emotional realm of abstract painting can be a bit daunting at first. But I’ve learned first-hand that some gentle coaxing from an experienced pro can really launch you into a soulful new world of personal expression. In Abstract Painting with Andrea Cermanski, you'll get all the inspiration and technical skills needed to embark on a personally enriching journey into Abstract Art, using either encaustic or acrylic paint.

These classes are open to newbies and aspiring Jackson Pollocks alike. And while you’re in town, be sure to check out Andrea’s work on display at the William and Joseph Gallery on Canyon Road. (Yes, there will be wine.)

Santa Fe Isn’t Just Your Muse, It’s Your Subject

Nothing inspires the artistic eye like the enchanting Santa Fe landscape.

Nothing inspires the artistic eye like the enchanting Santa Fe landscape.

Up for an artistic holiday? Have I got a home run for you: Imagine soaking in all of the awe-inspiring landscapes, architectural wonders, and cultural icons of Northern New Mexico, and bringing them to life through your camera lens. That’s exactly the trip-within-the-trip that lies in store for you with Santa Fe Land and Light Photography Workshops, hosted by Eloquent Light Photography. Step by step, you’ll walk alongside award-winning photographer Craig Varjabedian, composing your own personal photographic essay of the stirring New Mexico vistas that have enchanted artists for decades. You’ll gain access to amazing locations thanks to Craig, who has photographed New Mexico for 30-plus years. You’ll also participate in group discussions, sharing your digital images and learning the best techniques for tripods, histograms, and more. If you’re a photo buff, this class is sure to click with you.

Art: If You Want It Done Right, You Have to DIY

There’s no limit to what you can learn (and create) during DIY Santa Fe. There’s no limit to what you can learn (and create) during DIY Santa Fe.

Think of it as your passport to heightened creativity. Or a sightseeing journey for your right brain. Or even a romantic getaway for you and your senses. (All complete with stacked enchiladas and a top-shelf marg.) DIY Santa Fe is all of this and more. An artistic epiphany is calling. Answer it!