Feb. 27, Homeschool: Create & Express

Service Description

🌿 Express & Create: Creative Expression (Process-focused, expressive art experience) Best for ages: 8–12 Format: Open-ended, process-based exploration Group size: 6–8 students Express & Create is a process-based art class that invites students to explore creativity, self-expression, and communication through open-ended artmaking. Students are guided to experiment with materials, share ideas, and reflect on their artwork in a supportive, non-judgmental space. This class supports: Mindful expression and creative confidence Communication and storytelling through art Imagination, problem-solving, and flexible thinking Connection with peers in a small, supportive group Projects may include visual journaling, mixed media, painting, sculpture, and collaborative art experiences. The focus is on process over product, allowing each student’s voice and creativity to shine. Class length: 90 minutes Monthly enrollment: $150 per month (4 classes) Materials: All materials included *Make-up sessions available quarterly About the instructor: The Art Nest was inspired by founder Dacia Layton’s work as an occupational therapy educator and artist. Dacia has been a professor at Tidewater Community College for the past ten years, teaching in the Occupational Therapy Assistant program. For the last eight years, she has taught a course called Therapeutic Media, which introduces OTA students to the use of arts and crafts as occupation-based activities to support performance skills, daily living, and overall quality of life. Through teaching this course and exploring the many ways art can be used therapeutically in occupational therapy practice, Dacia experienced the healing benefits of art personally. This journey led her to further explore the field of art therapy. She is currentlly taking her 4th semester of graduate school pursuing a degree in art therapy and counseling, with an expected graduation date of May 2027.