Things to Do in the Winter: Classes and Workshops at the Center for Creative Exploration

As the new year ushers in a renewed sense of self-discovery, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design’s (PCA&D) Center for Creative Exploration is a Lancaster gem that can help you lean into learning something new while answering the question, “What is there to do this winter?”

The Center for Creative Exploration (CCE) designs their programming with one core belief in mind: Art and creativity is for everyone.

Whether you are a longtime creative who needs a new outlet, a high school student who wants to supplement their curriculum, or a parent or family member looking for artful activities to do with the little ones in your life, CCE has a robust and ever-changing lineup of options for you to explore.

“The start of winter and into the new year is often a time for self-reflection and being more intentional about how we spend our energy and time. Art experiences offer a therapeutic escape from the stresses that remain after the holidays and provide a way to stay engaged and productive during these quieter months. For children, art fosters imagination and helps combat the ‘cabin fever’ that can come with staying indoors. For adults, it offers a meaningful and relaxing way to unwind, while also offering an opportunity to tap into their artistic potential. Overall, engaging in winter art experiences, like our classes, can help everyone reconnect with their creative side and enjoy the season in a fulfilling way.”

Natalie Lascek, Executive Director, Center for Creative Exploration

Discover 2025 Winter Sessions

Pre-College

CCE’s Pre-College classes offer a variety of benefits for high-school aged students in grades 9-12. From allowing them to explore mediums that may not be offered at their schools to giving them an opportunity to experience a college-like setting and interact with professors, most of these courses are one- to three-day offerings and primarily run on Saturdays.

A few to check out:

• Botanical Acrylic Painting
• Original Character Illustration and Development
• Screenprinting Social Justice Posters
• Introduction to Comic and Graphic Novel Creation

Adult

Adult classes are designed in two categories: Professional and Enrichment, with both sections offering evening and weekend classes and workshops for adults and students aged 16 and up. With partnerships with other artful businesses across Lancaster City, these offerings allow adults to connect to their inner artist and their community while proving you can try something new at any age.

A few to check out:

• Botanical Watercolor with Gallery Grow
• Introduction to Machine Sewing
• Pet Portrait Painting
• Spring Bloom Mosaic Workshop
• Make and Create Weekend Retreat with Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen

Young Artists

Offered for children in grades 1-9, classes and workshops are held on weekday evenings and weekends, as well as weekday classes for homeschool students, with each class encouraging exploration of the imagination and creativity in a variety of media. Winter sessions are perfect to see if your child would enjoy a longer summer camp through CCE.

You should also keep an eye out for Parent + Child classes, where registration is for one young artist and one adult—perfect for working parents or visiting family to connect with kids.

A few to check out:

• Big Ideas: Tinker Time | Grades 4-6
• Create Your Own Story | Grades 4-6
• Gelli Plate Printmaking | Grades 7-9
• Exploring YOU Through Art: Self Portraits and Identity | Grades 1-3
• Spring Painting and Movement | Ages 4-7 (Parent + Child)
• Creating a Fabric Banner | Ages 4-7 (Parent + Child)

Registration is open now for more than 80 classes and workshop options running January through March.

Want to discover more local? Follow Fig on Facebook and Instagram for inspiration.