We offer a wide range of hands-on art sessions each month that bring the community together, sparking creativity, connection, and self-expression.
People Around Us Workshops bring creativity to all ages and abilities. From textile and crochet to nature-inspired crafts, we use sustainable, often repurposed materials to create art that’s kind to the planet and inspires creativity. We offer hands-on sessions for children, teens, adults with intellectual disabilities, and seniors. Our workshops are more than just art-making — they’re about joy, connection, and self-expression. One participant’s feedback said it best: “The photos from your workshops show pure laughter and smiles.” Whether you want to have fun with friends, enjoy a creative day with your children, or host a memorable art experience for your work team or group, we can design a workshop just for you.
Sign up through the links in our Upcoming Workshops section below, and don’t forget to check our CALENDAR for next month’s classes down this page—or SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER to stay updated!
SEPT
Workshops
August workshops will be held at different venues. Please visit our Upcoming Workshops section for registration links specific to each location.
PEOPLE AROUND US WORKSHOPS
"Art lives in creativity, connection, engagement, and accessibility. Art does not need to be perfect. Art needs to be active, alive, engaging, and accessible. At People Around Us, we share beauty, grow skills, and create meaning together." – Leila Ghasempor
ESTABLISHED IN 2024
People Around Us began as my way of celebrating creativity in all its forms. At first, I spotlighted artists who were often unseen — especially retired senior artists creating extraordinary work. Through videos and interviews, I shared their art and stories with the community. Over time, I expanded into hosting art workshops for all ages — from children to seniors and even adults with intellectual disabilities. I believe art lives in creativity, connection, engagement, and skill.
At People Around Us, we share beauty, grow skills, and create meaning together. My philosophy is rooted in the power of the collective mind — that creativity flourishes when we think, create, and share together. At People Around Us, we inspire creativity through community and keep that energy alive, creating experiences that connect people to their own imagination and to each other.
"Seeing people light up as they discover their own creative voice — and witnessing that experience spark and inspire others — is what drives me every day. Let’s come together, build a sustainable creative community, inspire each other, and create lasting memories."– Leila
LEILA GHASEMPOR
I hold an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, a Bachelor’s degree in Sculpture with a Minor in Art History, an Associate in Art and Design, and a Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Management. My academic training, combined with years of hands-on practice, fuels my passion for creating spaces where creativity is shared, celebrated, and sustained. I believe in the strength of the collective mind — when people come together, ideas grow, inspiration flows, and art becomes more than a personal expression; it becomes a shared experience. Through People Around Us, I strive to spark imagination, encourage collaboration, and keep the energy of creativity alive in every workshop, conversation, and connection.
SUPPORT AND HOLD ART EXPERIENCES
Seeking a venue to host your workshop?
I support artists who are ready to share their skills and creativity through workshops. I’m here to organize, promote, and facilitate the creation of workshops. From finding a space to creating promotional content and handling registrations, I am here to help you every step of the way.
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OUR WORKSHOPS CALENDAR
Check our calendar events for future art classes.