The Creativity Room

31/07/2026

Life Drawing is back at United Makers!

Whether you're picking up a pencil for the first time or you've been drawing for years, these sessions are designed to help you grow as an artist.

Each week we'll explore a different drawing exercise—from gesture drawing and negative space to tone, line quality, measuring, and seeing proportions. I'll guide everyone through the exercise before we begin, then keep the poses flowing throughout the session so you can focus on drawing whoever you like.

It's the perfect balance of learning and practice in a relaxed, supportive environment.

✨ All materials included.📍 United Makers, 738 Pollen Street, Thames.🎟 Spaces are limited, so bookings are recommended.

Come draw with us!
For more information and to book a class follow the link: https://the-creativity-room.com/classes/

22/07/2026

Wow! Thank you so much to everyone who nominated a school, preschool, or community group. I honestly didn't expect so many thoughtful nominations, and it's been wonderful reading through them all. ❤️
I've run into one small hiccup though... I can't get in touch with many of the nominees!
If you nominated someone, could you please ask them to follow The Creativity Room and send us a quick message? That way, if they're selected, I'll be able to contact them.
Thank you again for all the amazing nominations. I can't wait to pass these art supplies on to a deserving new home and help spark a little more creativity. 🎨

12/07/2026

Creative Clear-Out #1

As I make room for the next chapter at The Creativity Room, I've realised I have art supplies that deserve to be creating instead of sitting on a shelf.

This week I'm giving away a large bundle of tempera paints — there is a looot, so it would be ideal for a preschool, school, or organisation that could really make use of them.

Rather than first in, first served, I'd love you to nominate someone who you think would genuinely enjoy or benefit from them.

Tell me who they are and why you're nominating them. I'll choose someone in a few days.

Let's help keep creativity flowing. 💛

21/03/2026

Curious about watercolour but not sure where to start? Or feeling a bit rusty and want to get back to basics? 🎨💧
This Sunday, I’m running a Watercolour Crash Course at The Creativity Room—designed especially for beginners (and anyone who wants a solid refresher).
We’ll cover the essentials step by step: • how to control water (the real boss of watercolour)
• simple techniques to create beautiful effects
• colour mixing basics
• and how to avoid those classic beginner frustrations
It’s relaxed, supportive, and all about building confidence so you can actually enjoy the process.
🕒 Time: 10am-3pm
📍 The Creativity Room
🎟️ Limited spots available
No experience needed—just come along and give it a go.
Message me to book your spot 💙 or follow the link: https://the-creativity-room.com/classes/

04/03/2026

What a great article by the observer! Organizing this event was a lot of fun! Looking forward to next year!

Artists at Work: Plein Air event hosted 39 artists, capturing inspiration on canvas. Organized by Laurie Mango a teacher of art at The Creativity Room in Thames.

Read more to discover the winners.

25/02/2026

12/02/2026

Thanks to the valley profile!

A new art competition is aiming to showcase the heritage and beauty of Thames, through live, outdoor painting.
Participating artists will create their work “en plein air” – outdoors – in what organiser Laurie Spera thinks might be the first competition of its kind in New Zealand.
Entries for the free competition are open now.
READ MORE: https://www.valleyprofile.co.nz/2026/02/12/plein-exciting-art-competition-to-debut/