Megan Barry - Minnetrista

Cost: $65-95 | Member Discounts Apply | 14+
Instructor: Joseph Durham, CRI®, CRFI® 

Learn Bob’s signature “wet-on-wet” technique from an experienced Certified Ross Instructor® and paint in the building where The Joy of Painting was filmed! Just bring yourself, and we will provide everything you need to have a wonderful time. Just like Bob said, “Let’s get crazy!” 

This workshop is held in the Bob Ross Experience studio, which is only accessible by stairs. Painting workshops are open to participants ages 14 and up. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

Please note: Admission to the Bob Ross Experience exhibition is not included with workshop registration. All attendees must be registered to participate. Contact our front desk at 765.282.4848 for more information.

https://www.minnetrista.net/events?tag=Painting

Happens on the following Dates:

• Apr 22, 2026, 5:00pm to
  May 22, 2026, 8:00pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• May 8, 2026, 1:00pm to 3:00pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• May 13, 2026, 1:00pm to 4:00pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• May 21, 2026, 5:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• May 27, 2026, 5:00pm to 8:00pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• Jun 17, 2026, 5:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• Jun 24, 2026, 5:00pm to 8:00pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• Jun 26, 2026, 1:00pm to 3:00pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

July 4; 4 p.m. | East Lawn and Greensward 
Free Community Event  

Gather your loved ones, bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and celebrate Independence Day at Minnetrista! The evening will be filled with family-friendly fun, including lawn games, glitter tattoos, live music, and more! And don't worry about snacks and drinks because we've got you covered with food trucks and concessions available for purchase throughout the event. Enjoy $4 Center Building gallery admission from 4–9 p.m., including access to the dual America at 250 exhibitions and Wallace & Gromit™: Get Cracking!, with free admission for members. As night falls, enjoy a dazzling fireworks show with lively music in the background, creating the perfect atmosphere to relax and enjoy with your friends and family. Presented in partnership with eKeeper Systems. 

July 8; 3–4:30 p.m. | Center Building, Indiana Room   
Cost: $25 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+ 

Enjoy refreshments while joining Director of Curation & Exhibition, Sebastián Encina, for a compelling look at 250 years of Hoosier history. Drawing from Minnetrista's dual America at 250 exhibitions, this talk explores East Central Indiana’s place within the broader story of the United States and how our region reflects the national narrative. Through stories of where we have been and where we are going, participants will gain a deeper understanding of our shared history and its lasting impact. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens

July 10; 5:30–8:30 p.m. or July 11; 2–5 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina Cost: $75 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 14+ Discover the art of copper enameling in this hands-on workshop with local artist and metalsmith Victoria Stout. Using stencils, participants will create beautiful patterns on a copper pendant while exploring this vibrant and expressive technique. Each participant will create one 1"–1½" pendant to take home at the end of the session. All tools, supplies, and safety gear will be provided. Participants should wear cotton clothing (no polyester or acrylic). Preregistration is strongly preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens

July 10; 5:30–8:30 p.m. or July 11; 2–5 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina Cost: $75 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 14+ Discover the art of copper enameling in this hands-on workshop with local artist and metalsmith Victoria Stout. Using stencils, participants will create beautiful patterns on a copper pendant while exploring this vibrant and expressive technique. Each participant will create one 1"–1½" pendant to take home at the end of the session. All tools, supplies, and safety gear will be provided. Participants should wear cotton clothing (no polyester or acrylic). Preregistration is strongly preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

July 18; 2–4 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina  
Cost: $35/Faerie House | Member Discounts Apply 

Join our imaginative family workshop and create the faerie house of your dreams. Using an array of vibrant faux florals, you can design a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that will have faeries eager to move in! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

July 22; 2–4:30 p.m. or July 23; 6–8:30 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina 
Cost: $45 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 14+ 

Discover the art of bookbinding in this hands-on workshop. Participants will learn the long-stitch binding method to create a soft leather journal with an exposed spine that allows for flexibility and durability. Each participant will create one 6" x 8.5" leather journal, with the option to add a leather strap closure. All tools and supplies will be provided. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

Happens on the following Dates:

• Jul 22, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• Jul 23, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens

July 25; 2–4 p.m. | Center Building and Wishing Well Lawn Cost: $18/Adult; $15/Child; 3 & Under Free | Member Discounts Apply Experience a tea party like no other, faerie-style, alongside fellow winged friends in the enchanting setting of Minnetrista. Enjoy a magical afternoon filled with games, a special craft, and—of course—lovely tea and treats. Costumes encouraged—wings, wands, and all things sparkly are welcome! Children must be registered with an accompanying adult. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

Turn your imagination into wearable art! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft a copper or bronze pendant using Precious Metal Clay (PMC)—a moldable clay made of real metal particles that transform into solid metal when kiln-fired.

Long Description

August 6; 2–4:30 p.m. or August 7; 6–8:30 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina 
Cost: $45 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+ 

Turn your imagination into wearable art! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft a copper or bronze pendant using Precious Metal Clay (PMC)—a moldable clay made of real metal particles that transform into solid metal when kiln-fired. Learn how to cut, texture, and layer your piece while working with the clay in both its wet and green (dry) stages. Finished pendants will be kiln-fired by the instructor and ready to pick up the following week. All tools, supplies, and safety gear will be provided; please wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

Happens on the following Dates:

• Aug 6, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• Aug 7, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Turn your imagination into wearable art! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft a copper or bronze pendant using Precious Metal Clay (PMC)—a moldable clay made of real metal particles that transform into solid metal when kiln-fired.

Long Description

August 6; 2–4:30 p.m. or August 7; 6–8:30 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina 
Cost: $45 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+ 

Turn your imagination into wearable art! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll craft a copper or bronze pendant using Precious Metal Clay (PMC)—a moldable clay made of real metal particles that transform into solid metal when kiln-fired. Learn how to cut, texture, and layer your piece while working with the clay in both its wet and green (dry) stages. Finished pendants will be kiln-fired by the instructor and ready to pick up the following week. All tools, supplies, and safety gear will be provided; please wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

Happens on the following Dates:

• Aug 6, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)
• Aug 7, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:30pm Timezone: Eastern Time (US & Canada)

August 12; 3–4 p.m. | Center Building  

Cost: $10 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+

Show your school spirit on a nostalgic journey through the Minnetrista Heritage Collection. Join the Collections team for a behind-the-scenes tour into secure storage areas, where you’ll discover the tools, trends, and traditions that shaped school life in our community. Explore artifacts rarely on public display, including educational toys, uniforms, sports memorabilia, instruments, photographs, class rings, and yearbooks—and maybe even spot a few objects from your own school days. This tour may include standing, stairs, and exposure to loud HVAC noise. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. If you need accommodations, please notify us in advance.

https://www.minnetrista.net/events/collections-tour-aug-12-2026

August 13; 6–8 p.m. | Center Building, Indiana Room 
Cost: $28 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 21+

 
Join Cody Sprunger, Archivist for Architectural and Design Records at Ball State University, for an exploration of the local built environment shaped by Herbert Smenner, one of Muncie’s leading 20th-century architects. Working both independently and alongside his professional partner Charles Houck, Smenner helped define the region’s architectural character through designs such as the Muncie Fieldhouse and the Grace Keiser Maring Library. Through original architectural drawings, documents, and photographs from Ball State University Libraries’ Andrew Seager Archives of the Built Environment, the program brings Smenner’s creative process to life while highlighting the lasting impact of his work across East Central Indiana. Guests are invited to see familiar places in a new way while enjoying delicious appetizers. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

August 15; 2–4 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina 
Cost: $25 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+ 

Capture the bright, tangy flavors of tomatillo salsa in this beginner-friendly canning workshop. You’ll learn the fundamentals of water-bath canning while creating a fresh, flavorful salsa perfect for dipping, topping, or adding a kick to your favorite dishes—and you’ll leave with a jar to take home. This relaxed, hands-on experience builds confidence in the kitchen while teaching practical skills you can use at home. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

August 27; 5:30–8:30 p.m. or August 29; 2–5 p.m. | Oakhurst Gardens, Education Center 
Cost: $55 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+ 

Experience the art of torchworking as you create one-of-a-kind glass beads in this hands-on workshop with local artist Marcos Jarp. Using a flame and an array of colorful glass rods, you’ll be guided step by step through the process of shaping molten glass in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment. All tools, supplies, and safety gear will be provided; please wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens

September 2; 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m. | All Campus  Cost: $6 per child; includes free admission for two adults with each child ticket. Additional adult tickets are $7 each. Free for members. Homeschool families are invited to a fun-filled day of educational activities across Minnetrista’s campus. Enjoy a hands-on experience using an old-fashioned cider press, explore current exhibitions, and venture along our scenic trails. Come ready to learn and play! Preregistration is encouraged.

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens

September 2 and 3; 6–8:30 p.m. | Center Building, Cantina Cost: $65 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+ Learn the art of traditional case binding in this two-day, hands-on workshop. Participants will build and sew their own text block, then create a durable hardcover book using decorative papers. Each participant will leave with a completed, handcrafted book suitable for journaling, sketching, or creative projects. A variety of decorative papers will be available to personalize your cover. All tools and supplies will be provided. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. For those interested in exploring additional design techniques, Minnetrista is partnering with Art Mart, which is offering a separate paper marbling class. Participants are welcome to bring marbled paper from that experience to use in this workshop, though it is not required. Registration and fees for the marbling class are handled separately through Art Mart.

September 9; 3–4:30 p.m. | Center Building, Indiana Room Cost: $25 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 13+

What does it take to bring a fully immersive art experience to life? Local artist Carrie Wright offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at creating a large-scale contemporary installation of seven hand painted silk panel rooms, sharing the high-stakes balancing act of logistics, innovation, and stewardship. Enjoy light refreshments as you explore the realities of bringing ambitious creative visions to life. From navigating unfamiliar infrastructure to carrying the responsibility of introducing a city to total immersion, this talk explores the unique pressures and rewards of a professional artist’s journey. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

September 12; 6:30–8:30 p.m. | Center Building and Nature Area  

Cost: $12 Adult and $8 Child (3 and Under Free) | Member Discounts Apply  

Experience Minnetrista’s Nature Area after dark in this guided evening adventure. Learn about the history of the land and discover the plants and animals that call it home as you explore from dusk into night. Flashlights and walking sticks are encouraged as you take in the sights and sounds of Indiana’s natural landscape. The evening concludes with s’mores around the fire, adding a tasty finish to this unique outdoor experience. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead. 

September 19; 5–7:30 p.m. | Oakhurst Gardens, Education Center Patio  

Cost: $35 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+  

Gather around the table for an evening centered on local farms and the people who sustain them. Guests will share a family-style meal alongside farmers and growers from our region, hearing firsthand about their work, challenges, and the traditions that shape life on the land. Through conversation, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how foods moves from field to table and the role local farms play in community wellbeing. Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.  

September 19; 5–7:30 p.m. | Oakhurst Gardens, Education Center Patio 

Cost: $35 | Member Discounts Apply | Ages 18+

Gather around the table for an evening centered on local farms and the people who sustain them. Guests will share a family-style meal alongside farmers and growers from our region, hearing firsthand about their work, challenges, and the traditions that shape life on the land. Through conversation, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how foods moves from field to table and the role local farms play in community wellbeing.

Preregistration is preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.