Learn how to use art to build creativity and cohesion for your tech teams. Join Miriam Joelson of Google’s International Legal Operations Unit on Thursday, May 12 at 5.30 at the Institute for Mosaic Art (IMA) in West Berkeley for snacks, adult beverages, great people and inspiring ideas.

In 2015, Miriam Joelson was looking for a team-building idea for her group. She wanted an art activity which required neither talent nor prior experience for people to feel successful. Mosaics turned out to be the perfect choice. Last December, 22 Google staffers convened at the Institute of Mosaic Art where they enjoyed a full day of right brain activity. Legal specialists for the software giant made accomplished, attractive pieces, given their usual line of work. The day ended with the crew feeling creatively revived and more unified as a team. “We would definitely return,” says Joelson.

Joelson will be back at the IMA on May 12, this time as a guest speaker at a “Tech Meets Art” meetup with the Berkeley Startup Cluster. Joelson will talk briefly about the benefits of art and "right brain" activities to enhance team cohesion and creativity regardless of industry focus. The event is open to anyone engaged in tech or working in Berkeley.

Guests can enjoy an exhibit of abstract mosaic art by Seattle artist Kelley Knickerbocker -- a former techie -- and sample wine & beer tastings from local producers in the IMA’s colorful outdoor courtyard. Appetizers will be provided by another Berkeley startup: Josephine catering. Come and meet your West Berkeley neighbors: creative professionals and entrepreneurs.