HEALING ARTS

Crafting Gratitude Workshop: A Two-Part Wellness Series

Join us for an intergenerational workshop series exploring the many ways we experience and express gratitude — through conversation, craft, creative writing, and the meditative art of ikebana. This event is a collaboration between The Confined Arts Program by Another Choice NYC & Harlem Strong Project at The Center of Innovation in Mental Health.

Session 1: Cardmaking

Saturday, September 19th | 2PM–5 PM

Mount Zion A.M.E. Church (1765 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10029)

We'll open with a grounding movement session before diving into a group discussion on what gratitude means to us, how we show it, and what can make it hard to express. Participants will then create personalized cards using collage and creative writing to express gratitude toward someone or something meaningful in their lives. No experience necessary — all materials and inspiration provided!

Session 2: Flower Arrangement with Ikebana

Saturday, September 26th | 2PM–5PM

Mount Zion A.M.E. Church (1765 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10029)

Building on our first session, we'll explore gratitude through the lens of nature and introduce participants to Ikebana, the meditative Japanese art of floral arrangement centered on balance, mindfulness, and inner peace. Using origami and craft techniques, participants will design their own gratitude-inspired arrangements to take home.

Who's it for? Everyone! This workshop is designed for participants of all ages and backgrounds.

Price: Suggested donations: $0, $5, $10

What you'll explore: Self-reflection, empathy, and community connection through hands-on creativity — no artistic experience required.

Led by: Teaching Artists Diomenne Diakite, Nikhila Kanneganti, and Spencer Washington

Come for one session or both — each is a standalone experience, and together they form a full journey through the many meanings of gratitude.

Accessibility Notice:
This event will take place in the Lower Level Fellowship Hall at Mount Zion A.M.E. Church, located one flight downstairs. Please note that there is no elevator access to the lower level. We want attendees to be aware of this when planning their visit.

This event will be photographed and recorded. Entering the event space means you give permission for your likeness to be used for promotional and archival purposes.