Introduction to Therapeutic Art: Model Building as Mindfulness

Class Description

Join us to practice mindfulness through creative model building with miniatures.

Learn to calm a busy mind by focusing on a small world of your own creation. This class introduces the fundamentals of building plastic model kits of your choice, such as cars, ships, airplanes, or characters, using techniques including sanding, painting, and gluing.

Beginners are welcome, and first-time participants are encouraged to choose a beginner-friendly kit.

Depending on the complexity of the kit and individual interest, participants may attend a single session.

Price

Price included with Museum admission (one-time payment for all three sessions), payment can be made at the Museum front desk upon arrival of the first session.

Dates & Times

This class meets on Saturdays from 3 — 5:30 pm March 7th through the 21st.

March 7th
March 14th
March 21st

Materials Required

Not all Materials Included – Participants are responsible for bringing their own supplies. If you have questions, feel free to contact the instructor directly at sskarttherapy@gmail.com

Materials List:

  • A plastic model kit of your choice

    • kits can be purchased online or at local stores (e.g., Mel and Tee’s, Hobby Lobby)

    • Beginner-friendly kits are recommended for first-time participants

Materials Provided:

  • Acrylic paints or enamel paints with paint thinner

  • Small or fine-detail paint brushes

  • Sanding block

  • Plastic model glue

  • X-acto knife

  • Cutting pad

Please review the instructions carefully and have your materials ready before the first class.

A smiling young woman with shoulder-length hair sitting at a table with a pumpkin and supplies, in a festive indoor setting.

About the Instructor - Sumin Kim

Sumin Kim (she/her), MA, LAPC, ATR is an Erie-based award-winning artist, associate therapist, and certified art therapist, who has been recognized for her community outreach, including pioneering art therapy programs across multiple community settings and sharing professional work at various conferences. Sumin’s passion is to promote community wellbeing and belonging through creative expression. Her approach integrates mindfulness, playfulness, and reflection to help participants reconnect with themselves and others through art. As an artist, Sumin creates toys to promote dialogue and build stronger communities.