Barnes Create & Connect

Barnes Create & Connect is a free, supportive art-making workshop for people living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners. The October session, the final workshop in the fall series, explores “Visual Stories through Van Gogh,” inviting participants to look closely at Vincent van Gogh’s work and reflect on how people create meaning in their own lives.

The program begins in the Barnes galleries with slow-looking exercises, mindfulness, and guided conversation about selected artworks. Participants then take part in a hands-on creative activity led by a teaching artist. The workshop emphasizes connection, reflection, and making while honoring each participant’s pace and perspective. No previous art experience is needed.

When: Saturday, October 31

Showtimes: 10 a.m. to noon

Venue: Barnes Foundation

Tickets: Free; registration is required

Audience: Individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners

Theme: Visual Stories through Van Gogh

Program: Gallery-based looking, mindfulness, and discussion followed by hands-on art-making with a teaching artist

Experience level: No prior art experience is necessary

Series: Barnes Create & Connect is presented in partnership with the Parkinson Council and takes place on select Saturdays from August through October

Logistics: Space is limited, and light snacks and beverages are provided

Support: Lead support is provided by the William Penn Foundation, with additional support from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Parkinson Council, Deborah Glass, and other individual, corporate, and foundation donors.