Have you been wanting to get into a creative space but don’t know how? Perhaps you’ve been a do-it-yourself (DIY) guru for some time. No matter your experience, there are ways to let your creativity shine this semester. From painting classes to DIY nights, there are many ways for you to connect with others if you love being creative.
Create your own crafts
If one of your goals is to be more creative this semester, DIY Nights are the perfect opportunity to make that a reality. DIY Nights give you the chance to chat with fellow Buffs while bringing out your creative side in a variety of craft projects. It’s a great time to relax and learn a new skill. From making your own door hangers, mini terrariums, photo holders and more, there’s always something new to make.
You can also consider attending Guided Paint Classes where you will learn how to paint a picture you will be proud to show off to your friends. It can be a great time to take a break from your classes and clear your mind. Use your new painting as a decorative piece for your room or give it to a loved one.
Appreciate art on campus
Believe it or not, there are a variety of ways you can appreciate art right here on campus. For example, the Visual Arts Complex houses the CU Art Museum and the Department of Art and Art History. Here, you’ll find museum galleries and a collection of over 8,500 objects. The complex has studios, community workshop spaces and an auditorium which can be a great cultural getaway to learn something new.
If you happen to be at the UMC, look around and appreciate the art pieces hanging on the walls. The Student Arts Program highlights and displays a wide variety of original artwork created by your fellow Buffs. This artwork is featured throughout the building for all to admire. You’ll find additional Student Arts Program pieces in the Rec Center too. Deadline to submit artwork for this year is Feb. 11 and prize money is available for the highest ranking artwork.
Another way to appreciate the past is by going to the Heritage Center in Old Main to learn about the stories of CU Boulder’s extraordinary history over the past 150 years. You can admire their collection of photographs, books, artifacts, textiles, yearbooks, scrapbooks, sports memorabilia and more.
Connect and find what you like
There are programs and opportunities on campus available for you to meet others who have similar interests to you. You can start by visiting CU Boulder’s student club portal, BuffConnect. With over 500 student organizations, BuffConnect allows you to search for organizations by category or alphabetical order. Try searching “Art, Music, Performance” or “Social” as a place to start to find a club that matches your interests.
You can also visit the Center for Student Involvement (CSI) office to meet with the staff to help you find ways to discover new interests and skills. CSI also hosts a series of programs and events with activities that are undoubtedly a good time. Whether you want to try something new, meet new people or have a good time, this is a great resource.
Attend events
Attending events is your chance to meet people that share your interests in the creative world. Be on the lookout for activities you can be a part of to make the most of your free time!
- DIY Nights
- Guided Paint Class
- Study Break: DIY Valentine Making
- Residence hall events
- All student events
- Campus wide activities and events
Try things on your own
If you’d like to explore on your own or with a friend, here are a few suggestions for things you can try to be creative.
- Get together with a friend to make DIY gifts.
- Learn how to knit or crochet your own scarf for the winter season.
- Watch a tutorial on YouTube on acrylic or watercolor painting.
- Google how to make your own candles, bath bombs or other relaxation essentials.
- Grab your camera, pick a place to visit and create a photo collage of your adventures.
- Create your own bookmarks using whatever materials you have available.
- Write a haiku or take an introductory class for creative writing.
- Make handmade items for a cause.
- Grab a friend or two, visit a museum together and talk about your favorite paintings.
For more tips and resources for getting involved, visit the Student Affairs website, check out student events and be sure to follow us on social media @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!