Located on the bottom floor of the museum, the Creative Arts Studio provides an enclosed (but large) space for your child to explore a variety of art mediums on their own, or with the opportunity to learn from artists (museum staff and visiting residents). I went with my 1- and 5-yea- old children to see what the space could offer for our age range.

For a one year old, the space was a great way to explore shapes and texture - she especially loved the clay tools

Brightly lit and incredibly mindful of their smaller visitors, the studio has a great selection of ways for your child to express themselves creatively. My one-year-old gravitated to the clay while my five-year-old had fun making leaf rubbings and trying out the fall-themed colors. One thing that really appealed to me was the enclosed space offered me an opportunity to relax while both children explored based on their age-appropriate interests.

Images from previous art-driven projects hosted by the museum adorn the walls

As a parent with a bit of an age gap between the kids, this seemed like one of the best exhibits to appeal to both. It is really exciting knowing that as my youngest grows to an age that is ideal for the museum, there are spaces like this that my oldest ages can still enjoy as he ages out. 

Materials will change with the monthly themes

Although the Studio has limited open hours (see below for full details) there is also a curated “Art in the Depot” space outside the studio next to the train area of the museum. Here rotating items will be available for your little one to explore the creative arts during all open hours of the museum.

Enjoying the light table outside the studio in the Depot

The Details:

• The Studio is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 2p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

• Monthly themes invite visitors to explore art mediums in different ways.

• The space is designed for open-ended creativity and adults are encouraged to explore and use the studio offerings as well.

• Rotating Artists in Residence are helping curate the themes and activities.

• Project-based programming will continue to be available in the space during key holidays, check the PTM calendar for details!