Looking for a creative way to escape the August heat? First United Methodist Church of Alexandria’s Art Ministry is inviting the community to enjoy two free opportunities this month that encourage creativity, connection, and artistic exploration for all experience levels.
The first event is the Art Ministry’s annual Pop-Up Art Party: Collage!, taking place on Sunday, August 9, at 12:15 p.m., immediately following the second worship service. The free event will be held in the 50-50 Room on the FUMCA campus at 2727 Jackson Street in Alexandria.
Open to adults, youth, and older children accompanied by an adult, the hands-on workshop introduces participants to the art of collage using a wide assortment of papers, textures, photographs, printed images, and found materials. Lunch will be provided for everyone attending. Like all of FUMCA’s Pop-Up Art Parties, the emphasis is on exploration rather than artistic expertise. Whether someone has years of creative experience or has never picked up art supplies before, participants are invited to experiment, create, and simply enjoy the process in a welcoming and encouraging environment. Advance registration is required to ensure enough art supplies and lunch for everyone. Register online through www.fumca.org/art or by contacting Rev. Jean Sanders or the church office at 318-443-5696.
Those looking for another opportunity to create can also join the Art Ministry’s Urban Sketching gathering on Saturday, August 15, at 10:00 a.m. on the FUMCA campus. Meeting on campus offers sketchers a comfortable way to enjoy the creative practice while staying close to shade and indoor spaces during the hottest part of the summer. No registration is required.
Urban sketching is the practice of drawing on location from direct observation, capturing the people, places, and moments that make each setting unique. The goal is not to create perfect artwork but to slow down, observe carefully, and tell the story of a place through drawing. Since launching in October 2025, FUMCA’s Urban Sketching ministry has welcomed artists and beginners alike at neighborhoods, museums, coffee shops, festivals, parks, and community events throughout Central Louisiana. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite sketching supplies, although newcomers are always welcome.
Both events are free and open to the public and reflect FUMCA’s commitment to making creativity accessible to everyone. Whether assembling a colorful collage or filling the pages of a sketchbook, participants are invited to discover that art is less about perfection and more about paying attention, expressing creativity, and building community together.