About the Instructor
Dana Rau is an artist and author who explores mediums of many kinds and relishes any chance for creative play. With a degree in creative writing and art history from Trinity College, and an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts, she is the author of more than 350 books for children.
Dana has taught classes in writing and art from her studio at Whiting Mills in Winsted as well as from the Farmington Valley Arts Center, the American Mural Project, the Highlights Foundation, and the Mark Twain House. She also visits schools to present and engage with young creators. Dana now works from her sunny home studio in Burlington, Connecticut.
Handcrafted Colorful Surprise Book with Dana Rau
Instructor Artist: Dana Rau
Date: Friday, July 24, 2026
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Location: Fisher Gallery
Level: All levels
Workshop Fee: $60 (includes all materials)
When we were children, art was a form of play. But as adults, we convince ourselves that everything must be perfect and with purpose. Let’s break that notion and play with materials to create a colorful, expressive, and inspirational book that captures the spirit of creativity that comes with stepping outside our comfort zones and being adventurous artists. Starting with a big piece of paper, we’ll experiment with paint, stamps, mark-making tools (such as paint pens, markers, pastels, and ink), and more. We’ll cut, fold, and bind it into a book that expresses your unique form of creativity. The process will be messy, brilliant, and everything in between. Let’s play for the sake of play and watch the amazing creations and thoughts that come out on paper. You’ll leave with a handcrafted book that is full of surprises and a beautiful reflection of yourself. Simply bring an adventurous playful spirit.
Refreshments will be served, and the gallery will be open for your enjoyment. Cheers!
