Once again, the Stanley Museum of Art hosted its monthly programming for students, Night at the Museum! In November, the evening's itinerary overlapped with a line of programming we hope you are familiar with: Dana Keeton's "Chill & Create"! Local artist, art therapist, and mental health counselor Dana Keeton has graciously partnered up with the Stanley for many such programs, designed to promote creativity and mindfulness, and give students a chance to ground themselves with an art project.

Dana brought November's Chill & Create to the lobby for the first time, with masks as the main artistic focus. Students were able to customize their own mask, contemplating identity and their sense of self. This awesome group of UI students then joined Dana up in our galleries for a unique, guided walkthrough that focused on these personal themes, practicing mindful strategies in a space as compelling and distinctive as an art gallery.
 

If you missed out in November, never fear — Dana is hosting Chill & Create once again on Friday, December 12th! From 2:00-4:00PM, Dana will be helping students destress before Finals Week. Her project of choice will be collage, a popular draw for students in the past! In addition to making collages, this workshop will also give participants a chance to learn techniques for decompressing and staying mindful in the future. Feel free to stop by and chill out!

If finals still have you worried, the Stanley has your back. From 10AM to 4PM on December 16th, 17th, and 18th, we're holding our semesterly Study at the Stanley event in the museum lobby! Students can study in peace and quiet, enjoy free hot drinks, snacks, study supplies, and even stim toys to help you stay focused.
 

Stay warm, Hawkeyes, and stay tuned using the calendar on the Stanley's website for next semester's Nights at the Museum, and more!