Families Explore Spring Art Projects

Local nonprofits offer creative activities to get kids engaged with nature and self-expression

Mar. 12, 2026 at 7:34pm

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As winter gives way to spring, local art organizations in the Washington, D.C. area are encouraging families to get creative with nature-inspired art projects. From making temporary nature mandalas to crafting paper flowers and Basquiat-inspired crowns, these hands-on activities help kids develop fine motor skills and learn about self-expression. The article highlights offerings from nonprofits like Art Works Now and Project Create, which provide affordable and accessible art classes and workshops for all ages.

Why it matters

Art projects can be a powerful way to engage kids, promote creativity, and connect them to the natural world, especially during the spring season when nature is in bloom. These community-based art organizations are making art accessible and affordable for families, providing opportunities for hands-on learning, self-expression, and social-emotional development.

The details

The article features several spring-themed art projects families can try at home, including making nature mandalas by arranging found objects like seashells and flower petals, creating paper flowers using tissue paper and pipe cleaners, and decorating Basquiat-inspired cardboard crowns. The projects are designed to be low-cost, easy to set up, and encourage kids to explore their surroundings and tap into their imaginations. The article also highlights the work of notable artists like Alma Thomas, whose vibrant mosaics captured the beauty of nature and the city of Washington, D.C.

  • Spring is the perfect time of year to try these nature-inspired art projects as flowers bloom and the weather warms up.
  • Art Works Now and Project Create offer these family art activities year-round, with a focus on spring projects as the seasons change.

The players

Aimee Olivo

A mother of teenagers and the executive director of Art Works Now, a women-led nonprofit arts organization in Hyattsville, Maryland.

Christie Walser

The executive director of Project Create, a nonprofit that provides free art classes and workshops for families in the Washington, D.C. area.

Evie Tobias

A teaching artist at Project Create who has created video resources demonstrating how to make paper flowers and other art projects.

Alma Thomas

A longtime Shaw Junior High School art teacher and late D.C. artist, known for her vibrant mosaic artworks that captured the beauty of nature and the city.

Jean-Michel Basquiat

A world-renowned artist whose unique and raw style, combining street art and fine art, has inspired young artists to explore self-expression.

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What they’re saying

“It's a way to talk to kids about [the fact that] their art doesn't have to be forever. It can be something they really enjoy making while they're doing it, and then it can also go away.”

— Aimee Olivo, Executive Director, Art Works Now

“Art is transformative. We believe that the art-making process contributes to social and emotional wellness — and healing.”

— Christie Walser, Executive Director, Project Create

“There are always materials at home. It's great to upcycle and reuse things we have.”

— Christie Walser, Executive Director, Project Create

“You can make as many as you like and make bouquets out of it. Then, you can decorate for birthday parties or use this just for your own enjoyment in a vase at your house.”

— Evie Tobias, Teaching Artist, Project Create

“I say everyone on earth should take note of the spring of the year, coming back every year, blooming and gorgeous.”

— Alma Thomas

What’s next

Families can explore more spring art projects by signing up for workshops at Art Works Now and Project Create, which offer affordable and accessible classes for all ages.

The takeaway

These community-based art organizations are providing families with creative outlets to connect with nature, promote self-expression, and foster social-emotional development during the spring season. By offering a range of hands-on projects, they are making art accessible and inspiring the next generation of artists.