Rain or Shine: Umbrella Art - 3 week workshop

Turn a rainy-day essential or sun protector into a beautiful work of art. At Riverton Library, we’re spending 3 weeks transforming everyday umbrellas into colourful, joy-filled creations you’ll be proud to carry. A gift to yourself or one to give away. Step into this series of relaxed, inspiring workshops where you’ll reinvent a classic umbrella using fabric, colour and your own imagination. Whether you love bold florals, gentle nature motifs, playful abstract shapes or something completely personal, this is your chance to create an umbrella that reflects you or someone you love. This hands-on session is perfect for beginners. You’ll explore simple techniques including cutting, gluing and basic hand-sewing with a running stitch, while enjoying the freedom to experiment and follow your own ideas. No experience is needed, just curiosity, a willingness to play and slow down. Think of it as part art workshop, part creative escape, part relaxation. No pressure. No perfection. Just colour, texture and the quiet joy of making something by hand. All creative tools and materials are provided. Umbrella not included. Feel free to bring any bits and pieces of from home to add a personal touch. A large plain green umbrella will be available on the day for $12, or you are very welcome to bring your own in a colour or style they prefer. And for those who are wondering whether the umbrella will still be rain proof, the answer is yes! Rain or Shine sessions: Saturday, October 24th, 1pm-4pm Saturday, October 31st, 1pm-4pm Saturday, November 7th, 1pm-4pm (optional) Please ensure that you can make all 3 sessions. About the Facilitator Marie Wilkinson has always followed the pull of creativity, from childhood days spent happily colouring for hours to a lifelong exploration of sewing, mosaic and painting. Her work is guided by her signature No Paintbrushes approach, which invites people to create in tactile and unexpected ways, without rules, pressure or the expectation of perfection. In 2024, Marie completed a Diploma in Creative Arts and Health, bringing together her passion for art, wellbeing and connection. She creates spaces where people can slow down, experiment and rediscover the simple joy of making something with their hands.