Host an #NotAlone Art Night

Steps for an Art Night

1. Determine the Objective

  • Decide if the night is focused on therapeutic self-expression, raising awareness about mental health topics, or simply providing a supportive space to relax and create.

2. Select an Appropriate Venue

  • Choose a location with ample space for seating, tables, and drawing/painting supplies. A quiet room, outdoor patio, or community center can work.

3. Fix the Date and Time

  • Pick a date and time that maximizes participation, keeping in mind that evenings or weekends might be most convenient for many.

4. Gather Supplies

  • Stock up on drawing and painting materials: paper, canvases, brushes, watercolors, acrylics, pencils, etc. Also, consider providing aprons or old shirts to protect clothing.

5. Design a Mental Health Prompt (optional)

  • Create a few thematic prompts to guide participants, such as "What does inner peace look like to you?" or "Illustrate a personal challenge and its overcoming." But always let participants know they're free to create whatever resonates with them.

6. Send Invitations with Clarity

  • Explain the theme of the evening, the materials provided, and what guests might want to bring. Make it clear that no art experience is necessary and the focus is on expression, not perfection.

7. Set Up a Welcoming Environment

  • Arrange seating in a way that's communal but still offers personal space. Play some calming background music. Consider having a relaxation or mindfulness moment before starting to set a positive tone.

8. Facilitate and Support

  • As host, be present and available. Engage with guests, offer encouragement, and if comfortable, share your own creations and the stories behind them.

9. Wrap Up with a Sharing Opportunity

  • Give participants the option to share and discuss their artwork, emphasizing that it's a judgment-free zone. Understand that not everyone may want to share, and that's okay.

10. Thank Your Guests and Follow Up

  • As the evening concludes, express gratitude to everyone for participating. A few days later, consider reaching out individually to thank guests for attending and to check in on how they felt about the experience.

Note: Art is deeply personal, and for some, it can evoke strong emotions or memories. Always approach feedback and discussions with sensitivity, and remember that the primary aim is to offer a supportive and therapeutic environment.