For this month’s 2-hour painting workshop session, Mahfida set up all the tools, canvases, and colors. Participants enjoyed creating their own masterpieces! They couldn’t believe that without any prior experience, they could paint with such ease! It was fun to dive into the world of watercolors and experiment with different shades with each careful stroke.

This painting workshop offered participants a soothing, mindful experience in which they could relax, connect with others, and practice self-care through art. It focused on paying attention to detail, relaxing, and enjoying the creative process rather than aiming for perfection.

A visiting faculty member, who is a professional painter, also joined the session. She explained how she enjoys painting all the time, and it’s so relaxing after a busy day. For most of the participants who were at the beginner’s level, watching a painter working on the canvas was truly inspiring.

Our amazing EDST staff member, Carl Luke, embarked on his first painting journey and was absolutely serious about his work. However, painting takes a lot of patience, and one session is not enough to complete such detailed artwork. Although the masterpieces couldn’t be finished in one session, the amateur artists gained confidence by the end of the session and promised to complete the final touches in their spare time. As someone puts it, “This can be a great project for this Summer. I am excited to do some more paintings.” We can’t wait to see what comes next! 

Photos: Participants shared their completed artworks

NB: The March Painting Workshop was for 2 hours instead of the regular one-hour event. For this reason, there will be no Mindfulness with Mahfida session in April, as the participants are expected to complete their paintings at home. We can’t wait to see what’s there for the upcoming May event!

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Snacks and drinks were provided for all participants.
Photos are shared with participant’s permission. Any Participants who did not consent to being photographed are not included.

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About the Series

Mindfulness with Mahfida is part of the ongoing EDST Well-Being Series, supported by the Student Support Lead (SSL). With a new theme each month, the sessions are open to everyone in the EDST community — students, staff, and faculty alike. Together, we continue building a culture of care, connection, and well-being within our academic home.