The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape
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After nearly a year of travel restrictions, lockdowns and self-isolation, we could all use an escape. It’s not yet safe for a physical getaway, unfortunately, but there is at least one part of us all that can never be quarantined or contained: our minds. Whether you’re exploring the Louvre in Paris, learning origami in Seoul or painting like Frida Kahlo in Mexico City, these online art experiences offer an escape for the imagination – and perhaps the starting point for a fulfilling new hobby.
The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Play With Art At The Louvre – What wouldn’t we do for Paris adventure right about now? While you wait for the real deal, consider joining Parisienne art lovers and École du Louvre-trained museum guides Carine and Caroline for an evening of mystery and discovery, as you investigate the (fictional, of course) theft of the Mona Lisa, learn about the history of the Louvre and explore eight masterpieces from its iconic collection. Infused with quizzes and interactive games, this lively experience is ideal for art enthusiasts of all ages.
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Write Your Book – Feel like there’s a novel in your head, but not sure how to start? Now’s the time to put it to paper. In this session, you’ll sit down for a one-on-one with a published author to talk about the craft and gain personalised tips and insights, from brainstorming to plot arcs, character development and cover art, as well as advice on traditional and self-publishing. All genres and all levels of writing experience welcome.
2/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Visit Buenos Aires Through Local Art – From a colonial village to a modern metropolis, trace the history of Buenos Aires and its fascinating art scene in this interactive experience. Host Verónica uses paintings and historical photographs, along with games, quizzes and surprise activities, to unpack the history of Argentine art, share the stories of local artists, and chronicle the evolution of the city through its artistic output. A must for fans of history and the arts.
3/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Draw From Within With A New York Artist – No artistic talent? No problem. This session with New York artist Ben Ponté isn’t about making a pretty picture, it’s about plumbing the depths of your creativity and awakening your imagination through drawing, spoken word and poetry – as Ben says, “No matter how confined we may feel, the imagination always roams free.” Now that’s a sentiment we can totally get on board with.
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Paint With Red Wine – What if, instead of drinking wine and waiting for inspiration, you actually used the wine to create an original work of art? That’s what Ala’s experience is all about. First she’ll explain the difference between wine painting techniques and watercolours, as well as the other materials used, then reveal the basics of drawing lines and finally help you realise a beautiful painting of your own – as long as you don’t gulp your supplies first!
5/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Paint Like The Spanish Greats – Picasso, Miró, Dalí, Gaudí… Spain has birthed its fair share of artistic greats. Take a virtual trip to visit art therapist Marta in Barcelona, where you’ll learn about these titans of imagination and pick up a few techniques for imitating their style. Before the session is over, you’ll have created a painting of your own, inspired by one (or more) of these Spanish masters.
6/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Discover Balinese Coconut Leaf Crafts – In Bali, coconut trees don’t just provide sustenance – they also provide art supplies. Whether woven into baskets for temple offerings or expertly crafted into mini sculptures, coconut leaves are a versatile resource for the inhabitants of this Indonesian island. Join host Nyoman to learn about these unique local handicrafts – and make your own from materials available to you – while delving into Balinese philosophy, religion and culture.
7/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Try Felting In Ireland – Past meets present in this online experience, where you log on to your high-tech device and try your hand at an ancient textile craft. Connect with host Jayne on Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula, where she creates real wool scarves, accessories and art using age-old felting techniques. She’ll show you around her studio, share a bit about the history of the craft, then show you how to do your own felting right at home. Wool-dn’t you like to join?
8/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Weave With Tees In Malaysia – A craft doesn’t have to be ancient in order to be fun – just ask Kuala Lumpur-based artist and maker Nini, whose two-hour online experience will have you creating beautiful woven works of art with nothing more than some old T-shirts. You know what they say: One man’s tattered shirt is another man’s tapestry.
9/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Create Mexican Stories With Art – As an artist in vibrant Mexico City, Sofia is keen to inspire virtual visitors from around the world with her culture and craft. This one-hour experience starts with an exercise in creativity using materials that many already have lying around the house, like magazines, old notebooks and any painting supplies available. Then, Sofia will share tales of life in Mexico and lead you through an artistic recreation of a Mexican story. Perfect for kids, this is a great activity for family night.
10/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Do Origami In Seoul – Meditation can take many forms, from yoga to sound bathing, medieval monk chants and, yes, folding paper into cute shapes. Take an online trip to Korea, joining host Cristina to learn the art of origami and how it can promote mindfulness. She’ll also regale you with stories of life in Seoul, to complete the zen escape experience.
11/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Learn About Women And Art In São Paulo – Visit the São Paulo Museum of Art – virtually, of course – for an immersive evening of debate around art, history, gender and architecture. With more than a decade of experience in museum education, your knowledgeable host Thaís will lead the discussion as she reveals key works in the MASP permanent collection, including pieces by Tarsila do Amaral, Anita Malfatti, María Auxiliadora, Guerrilla Girls, Emilio Di Cavalcanti and Edgar Degas.
12/20
Travel
The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Paint Like Frida Kahlo – Speaking of inspiring women in art, head over to Mexico City for an enlightening session with a local artist in which you’ll learn about post-revolutionary Mexican art, as well as the life of the great artist and feminist icon Frida Kahlo. You’ll delve into watercolour techniques, explore Mexican folklore and artistic styles, and eventually take to the canvas to create your own watercolour painting alongside your host. [Photo: Irina/Flickr]
13/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Take A Manga Drawing Class – Love to draw, and looking to expand your repertoire? Why not try the Japanese art of manga. Manga University offers home study courses for beginners and intermediate manga artists, in addition to occasional livestream workshops. Who knows, perhaps you’re the next Osamu Tezuka!
14/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Draw A Portrait With An Artist – Alternatively, join Oaxaca-based illustrator and teacher Gabriel to hone your portrait-drawing skills. In this session, he’ll ascertain your drawing style, show you a few warm-up methods for the hand and brain, then teach you portrait techniques tailored to your skill level and style.
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Learn How To Caricature – Once you’ve mastered portrait drawing, you can learn to take creative liberties through the art of caricature. Host Gene polished his talents while working at Hollywood animation studios like Hanna-Barbera, and now he shares them with you. In this experience, Gene will draw a caricature of you while walking you through the principles of caricature creation, and then invite you to reciprocate with a drawing of your own. Just be careful how you wield your newfound powers… [Photo: DonkeyHotey/Wikimedia Commons]
16/20
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The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Create A Pet Portrait With Collage – Perhaps your pet would like a portrait, too? Barcelona-based mosaic artist Martin can help make that happen, as he teaches you the basics of collage-making. All you need to bring are a photo of your pet, some rudimentary drawing skills, and a lot of old paper to tear up and turn into something new.
17/20
Travel
The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Sketch With A Miami Artist – If you’re feeling less than confident in your illustration skills, try this experience with Miami artist Roberto Manoly, whose credentials include exhibitions at Art Basel and murals in Miami’s famous Wynwood Art District. Roberto will ease you into the fundamental elements of art, such as form, composition, value, perspective and lighting, demonstrating them as he goes.
18/20
Travel
The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Discover Moroccan Henna Art – Tattoo parlours may be closed, but this online experience is not – and perhaps you’re looking to make a less permanent mark anyway. Marrakesh-based Henna artist Siham provides a step-by-step tutorial to get you started with this traditional art, from preparing the Henna mud to practicing the drawing techniques, learning three classic Moroccan Henna designs, and finally trying it out for yourself.
19/20
Travel
The Mind Unconfined: 20 Online Art Experiences For A Virtual Escape.
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Explore Lisbon Street Art – Tour guide and street artist Igor brings Lisbon to your living room. His interactive street art adventure will reveal some of the most powerful works of art hidden in the most unlikely places, along with illuminating the history and culture of the city itself. But it’s not all show and tell; Igor has prepared fun challenges and games – complete with prizes – and even provides a free copy of his own book, Lisbon 27 Secret Places: The Ultimate Local Guide, as a souvenir of your virtual journey.
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