Get ready to splash into creativity at the Creative Cocoon.
The Arborg-based studio is welcoming two accomplished local artists as part of its upcoming winter and spring programming, offering hands-on classes designed to spark creativity, build confidence and keep things fun and relaxed — no experience required.
Kicking things off is award-winning painter Georgina Ball, who has been creating art since childhood and studied in England before settling in Manitoba. While Ball works primarily in oil, she also enjoys watercolour, mixed media and drawing, and is well known for experimenting with a wide range of subjects and techniques. She has shared her passion for art through adult evening classes in Arborg and Gimli and also welcomes visitors by appointment at her Giddy Cat Studio east of Arborg.
Ball will lead Fun with Watercolour, a four-week introductory series perfect for beginners or anyone looking to rekindle their creative spark. Running Mondays from Feb. 2 to Feb. 23, the workshops begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Creative Cocoon studio inside the 440 Recreation Centre. Each 90-minute session invites participants to explore basic watercolour techniques, play with texture and experiment freely in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
The $40 registration fee includes all supplies — brushes, paint and paper — which participants get to keep. Youth aged 10 and older are welcome when accompanied by a guardian, and class sizes are limited to ensure plenty of individual attention.
Also joining the Creative Cocoon lineup is Interlake artist Jerry Maryniuk, a retired police officer whose lifelong involvement in art includes sculpture, wildlife painting, cartooning, teaching and forensic illustration. Born and raised in rural Manitoba, Maryniuk draws inspiration from nature, rural life and community, while also using his art to raise awareness around mental health, seniors’ issues, victims of crime and the experiences of first responders. He co-founded the Winnipeg Police Service retired members PTSD peer support group and continues to advocate for mental-health awareness.
Maryniuk will lead a multi-class hand-build clay sculpture workshop beginning in March, guiding participants through the creation of a whimsical raccoon sculpture using potter’s clay. Sessions run Mondays on March 2, 16 and 23, with a fourth class scheduled for March 30 if needed, depending on the group’s progress. Classes begin at 6:30 p.m. and run for two hours, with finished pieces kiln-fired and mounted on wood.
No prior experience is required, youth aged 10 and older are welcome with a guardian, and the registration fee is $80. Space in both workshops is limited. To register or for more information, contact the Creative Cocoon by direct message or email info@thecreativecocoon.ca.
