Sunday, April 26, 2026
noon–5:00 p.m.
San Diego Museum of Art
Gallery 19
May S. Marcy Sculpture Garden
Create your own floral-themed works of art.
Great for families, youth, and creatives of all ages, the Garden of Activities is a hands-on, floral-themed creative experience during Art Alive weekend. Step into the world of the Belle Époque, inspired by the work of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and the spirit of turn-of-the-century Paris. The garden transforms into a festive, open-air salon where visitors of all ages can explore, create, and play. At the heart of the space, a drawing pavilion with live models in period attire evokes a Parisian art studio, while a full lineup of hands-on experiences invites guests to build their own artistic portfolio.
After viewing the floral exhibition, guests can experiment with a range of creative activities led by Museum educators, including:
- Oil Pastel Figure Drawing – Sketch live models dressed in Belle Époque attire within an open-air Parisian drawing salon.
- Poster Printing Studio – Design and print your own poster using mix-and-match plates created by the Museum’s Teen Council
- Impressionist & Pointillist Painting – Create a garden-inspired artwork using dot painting techniques
- Art Nouveau Brooch Design – Design and create a wearable pin inspired by florals, vines, and butterflies
- Collaborative Mural – Contribute to a large-scale community painting inspired by works on view
- Camera Obscura Experience – Explore early photography and create your own optical device
- Storytime & Marionette Performances – Enjoy scheduled storytelling and puppet shows in a whimsical garden library
Bring the entire household to view the inspiring floral exhibition then enjoy the popular Garden of Activities, a floral-themed hands-on space led by Museum educators. This activity space is held in both the SDMA Sculpture Garden and inside an SDMA gallery. Experiment with a new skill by participating in individual or collaborative art-making activities. All materials provided.
Garden of Activities is FREE with Art Alive floral exhibition admission.
Tickets on sale now!
Expand your Art Alive experience with our NEW Family Sponsorship packages. Enjoy special access to the Garden of Activities and more!
Event Sponsors
