The arts are a tool of expression, discovery, social interaction, lifelong learning, and recovery. ACA Arts & Wellness programs strive to enhance the quality of life for our community by connecting mind, body, and spirit through creativity. Please join us to celebrate the launch of ACA Arts & Wellness community programming season.

ACA Arts & Wellness Exhibit opening, including presentations by our Arts & Wellness community ambassadors, and a performance by music therapist Ashlee Lawrence.

Workshop for self-discovery and stress release
Come explore art journaling in this class led by artist/art therapist Laura Bohn. The goal of therapeutic art journaling is to reduce stress and promote relaxation by providing a safe space to play, experiment and gain self-guided insight and understanding of one’s own emotions. $30 / ACA members $20.

A fun and carefully guided creative movement experience led by artist and expressive arts facilitator, Rachel Chase. With the intention to connect, share our stories, and engage the brilliant healing power of play, this workshop uses various expressive arts to inspire participant-generated dances and free form creative expression. Themes include “I Was, I Am, I Will Be” and “My Life in the Flow.” Anyone seeking to improve coordination, cultivate better breathing and circulation, heal emotional wounds, express your soul through dance (even if you’ve never danced!), lower blood pressure, smile more, increase self-confidence, boost happiness, and/or enjoy exploring physical movement and self-expression is welcome. This workshop is appropriate for mature youth, adults, and elders. $30 / ACA members $20. Limited to 15 participants.

Mondays 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM. Caregiving for a loved one is a journey of joy and difficulty. Join ACA Arts & Wellness ambassador, Peggy Imbert, and registered music therapist, Vicki Gross and learn how to use creativity to enhance the quality of your daily routine. In collaboration with the National Center for Creative Aging, ACA uses a series of artistic activities to share innovative ways to interact and enjoy the moment. These sessions focus on caring for the caregiver, and engaging their care partner, through experiences that promote relaxation, concentration, and discovery. Come learn how to connect mind, body, and spirit by using the arts as a tool of expression, social interaction, and lifelong learning. Free, and open to the public. Registration required, limited to 20 participants per session. These workshops are structured in an ongoing series of 6 weeks. First series begins September 11, Second series begins October 23rd. Third series begins December 4th.

2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM, beginning September 13. Give the Gift of a Lifetime by joining voices and sharing the joy of music. Led by registered music therapist Vicki Gross, our community choir invites the participation of care partners, caregivers, and anyone wishing to keep their mind healthy and active. You don’t need to carry a tune, we’re interested in having fun, making memories, and expressing our creativity! Free, and open to the public.

11 AM – 1 PM, Fridays, September 15 – October 13
Join veterans of all generations across America who are reading and discussing ancient texts about war and warriors: what faces them on the battlefield and at home. Dr. Lucinda Sloan leads a reading group on Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey and Sophocles’ Ajax, which are universal and timeless aids to share insights and experiences across generations. Free, and open to the public.

Presentation by master gardener/chef from Riverpark Terrace restaurant.

Workshop for self-discovery and stress release
Come explore art journaling in this class led by artist/art therapist Laura Bohn. The goal of therapeutic art journaling is to reduce stress and promote relaxation by providing a safe space to play, experiment and gain self-guided insight and understanding of one’s own emotions.

ACA is teaming up with Heather McPherson, a former food editor and multimedia journalist for the Orlando Sentinel, to present a tasteful evening where cuisine, art and intellectual creativity collide! Your senses will soar through innovative tastings, performances and art. See, hear and taste the creativity of local chefs, artists and performers at ACA’s studio complex. Tickets: $150 per person / ACA Members $125.

A mandala is a symmetrical design or pattern with a central focus that communicates a personal theme or expresses wholeness. This family-friendly workshop will focus on intuitive art making using oil pastels, collage, and illustration board. Led by artist and expressive arts facilitator, Rachel Chase, participants will be guided through gentle mindful movement and relaxing breathing exercises to get in the mindset for creating a beautiful finished mandala. Have fun exploring your creative side in community with others. $30 / ACA members $20. Limited to 15 participants.

Two Atlantic Center for the Arts Alumni present a joint reading from their newest poetry collections. Kelle Groom reads from her new poetry collection, SPILL, published by Anhinga Press in October 2017, and Terry Ann Thaxton, reads from her new collection, MUD SONG, published by Truman State University Press in September 2017.

Join Eve Payor from the Atlantic Center for the Arts as she leads a sound walk through the Delaney Park neighborhood that Timucua calls home. Explore the sounds and rhythms of our urban and natural world. Each walk is beneficial for people of all ages to de-stress, focus, and develop a deeper understanding of how we fit into the ecosystem of our environment.

Mondays 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM. Caregiving for a loved one is a journey of joy and difficulty. Join ACA Arts & Wellness ambassador, Peggy Imbert, and registered music therapist, Vicki Gross and learn how to use creativity to enhance the quality of your daily routine. In collaboration with the National Center for Creative Aging, ACA uses a series of artistic activities to share innovative ways to interact and enjoy the moment. These sessions focus on caring for the caregiver, and engaging their care partner, through experiences that promote relaxation, concentration, and discovery. Come learn how to connect mind, body, and spirit by using the arts as a tool of expression, social interaction, and lifelong learning. Free, and open to the public. Registration required, limited to 20 participants per session.

Open each day 8 AM –  3 PM

Furniture and More Furniture! Household décor, art, kitchen items, garden tools, antiques, toys & games, Holiday décor, jewelry and more!

Proceeds benefit ACA Children’s Art Programs

Workshop for self-discovery and stress release. Come explore art journaling in this class led by artist/art therapist Laura Bohn. The goal of therapeutic art journaling is to reduce stress and promote relaxation by providing a safe space to play, experiment and gain self-guided insight and understanding of one’s own emotions.

11 AM – 1 PM, Fridays, November 3 – November 17
In all wars, women and partners who remain at home face challenges and rewards as their loved ones go to war and when they return. Dr. Lucinda Sloan leads a reading group, using the same texts that veterans are reading, to aid in understanding how experiences are timeless and universal. Share and learn from each other and join the dialogue about war in general, loss, and coping with the return of loved ones. Free, and open to the public.

Musical performance by Danny Sorensen, handpan drummer.

Gift and Accessory Trunk Show
Sugar Mill Country Club, 100 Clubhouse Circle, New Smryna Beach, FL
We will feature a brunch buffet with eggs benedict, omelet station, quiche, pastries, fresh fruit, bacon and sausage, deli board for sandwiches and a mimosa. Tickets: $30.

A fun and carefully guided creative movement experience led by artist and expressive arts facilitator, Rachel Chase. With the intention to connect, share our stories, and engage the brilliant healing power of play, this workshop uses various expressive arts to inspire participant-generated dances and free form creative expression. Themes include “I Was, I Am, I Will Be” and “My Life in the Flow.” Anyone seeking to improve coordination, cultivate better breathing and circulation, heal emotional wounds, express your soul through dance (even if you’ve never danced!), lower blood pressure, smile more, increase self-confidence, boost happiness, and/or enjoy exploring physical movement and self-expression is welcome. This workshop is appropriate for mature youth, adults, and elders. $30 / ACA members $20. Limited to 15 participants.

Artist and puppeteer, Morgan Kelly shares the inspiring world of masks. Learn the basics of mask making using a variety of household materials, including cardboard, wire and fabric. Then use your mask to explore the basics of performance and how to transform oneself through mask work. Historical references of masks from around the world will inspire our creations. $30 / ACA members $20. Limited to 15 participants.

The new book, Doris Leeper: Legacy of a Visionary, includes remembrances from people who knew “Doc,” worked with her to help realize her goals, and were inspired by her passion. Together, these essays, articles, and anecdotes paint a fascinating portrait of Doris Leeper, and describe her outstanding contributions to Florida, and the world.

The IMAGES Holiday Tour of Homes will present unique homes decorated for the holidays and showcasing the unique charm of New Smyrna Beach. This is a favorite event of the Central Florida community, and groups of friends attend year after year as a kick-off to the holiday season. The popular IMAGES Boutique is included in your tour and features handmade items created by ACA Volunteer League Members. Tickets $25 / ACA Members $20

ACA Gift of a Lifetime Choir performance of holiday classics, under the direction of music therapist, Vicki Gross. In addition to the choir performance, we will be hosting a Fundraiser for Deltona High School’s nationally acclaimed student literary magazine: Howl. Featuring an auction of autographed books as well as the Writers Unlimited release of City Dwellers by Nigerian poet Akpa Arinzechukwu.

Workshop for self-discovery and stress release
Come explore art journaling in this class led by artist/art therapist Laura Bohn. The goal of therapeutic art journaling is to reduce stress and promote relaxation by providing a safe space to play, experiment and gain self-guided insight and understanding of one’s own emotions. $30 / ACA members $20.

A mandala is a symmetrical design or pattern with a central focus that communicates a personal theme or expresses wholeness. This family-friendly workshop will focus on intuitive art making using oil pastels, collage, and illustration board. Led by artist and expressive arts facilitator, Rachel Chase, participants will be guided through gentle mindful movement and relaxing breathing exercises to get in the mindset for creating a beautiful finished mandala. Have fun exploring your creative side in community with others. $30 / ACA members $20. Limited to 15 participants.

Just like summer art camp only in December. Ages 6-12. Crafts of all kinds. $40.00 per child ($10.00 discount for ACA Members and additional children)

Come explore art journaling in this class led by artist/art therapist Laura Bohn. The goal of expressive art journaling is to reduce stress and promote relaxation by providing a safe space to play, experiment and gain self-guided insight and understanding of one’s own emotions. Added benefits can include self-growth, discovery, and joy through visual storytelling in a supportive group environment. In this workshop, we explore the possibilities of adding personal and/or universal archetypes to a journal page spread, using mixed media, watercolor, acrylics, and collage. Archetypes can be used as metaphors to gain insight into personal story-telling. $30 / ACA members $20.

Join ACA as we explore the sounds and rhythms of our urban and natural world. Each walk is beneficial for people of all ages to de-stress, focus, and develop a deeper understanding of how we fit into the ecosystem of our environment. See scheduled dates. Free, and open to the public. Limited to 20 participants. Register to secure your spot.

Mondays 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM. In collaboration with the National Center for Creative Aging, ACA uses a series of artistic activities to share innovative ways to interact and enjoy the moment. These sessions focus on caring for the caregiver, and engaging their care partner, through experiences that promote relaxation, concentration, and discovery. Come learn how to connect mind, body, and spirit by using the arts as a tool of expression, social interaction, and lifelong learning. Free, and open to the public. Registration required, limited to 20 participants per session.

Presented by Atlantic Center for the Arts
Friday 1 PM – 5 PM | Saturday 9 AM – 5 PM | Sunday 10 AM – 4 PM
Riverside Park- New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
FREE and Open to the Public. imagesartfestival.org

A revival of the dance hall as the community intersection of artistic, physical and social involvement designed for all ages and abilities, with elders at the center. This intergenerational, intercultural event features live music performed by professional musicians and is intended to promote arts participation, health education, and community well-being

Workshop for self-discovery and stress release. Come explore art journaling in this class led by artist/art therapist Laura Bohn. The goal of therapeutic art journaling is to reduce stress and promote relaxation by providing a safe space to play, experiment and gain self-guided insight and understanding of one’s own emotions. $30 / ACA members $20.

1st Saturday of every month. Join us Saturday, February 3 for Body Dialogue creator, Janice Stieber Rous joins ACA Arts & Wellness this year, and brings her “Ted Talk” to the performance series at Harris House. Hear Janice speak about how to become best friends with your body, and discuss Body Dialogue: the mind/ body practice that synthesize dance, contemplative movement, energy work, visual journaling and breathing practices in the holistic space of care and compassion. Free, open to the public.

Honor yourself, a loved one, or chose an archetype as a central figure to collage on board. Artist, art therapist Laura Bohn leads this transformational workshop that enhances creativity and reduces stress. Create personal meaning around this character with words, poems, or other written memorabilia to honor the image. Need an ally, or to face the dragon? You may also create an imaginary character and use it as metaphor to help chronicle or release your story. $30 / ACA members $20

Come explore art journaling in this class led by artist/art therapist Laura Bohn. The goal of expressive art journaling is to reduce stress and promote relaxation by providing a safe space to play, experiment and gain self-guided insight and understanding of one’s own emotions. Added benefits can include self-growth, discovery, and joy through visual storytelling in a supportive group environment. In this workshop, we explore the possibilities of adding personal and/or universal archetypes to a journal page spread, using mixed media, watercolor, acrylics, and collage. Archetypes can be used as metaphors to gain insight into personal story-telling. $30 / ACA members $20.

1st Saturday of every month. Join us Saturday, March 3 as Sonja Jean Craig performs spoken word and music with special guests. Free, open to the public.

Artist and puppeteer, Morgan Kelly shares the fun and unique form of puppetry known as Toy Theater. This workshop is for families, teachers, visual theater artists, and anyone interested in puppetry. Participants will build small table top stages for performances that explore themes of arts, wellness and personal transformation – all within the expressive and surreal possibilities of “paper theater.” The workshop will culminate in individual performances by participants. $30 / ACA members $20. Limited to 15 participants.

Through a simple figure/ doll making process, the characters we create might express culture, ancestry, myth, creativity, nature, loss, wisdom, passion, energy, bravery, compassion, happiness, sadness, or joy. Let your creative journey unfold intuitively as you build and costume your character. Join artist/art therapist Laura Bohn for this meaningful Arts & Wellness class. $45 / $30 for members

Atlantic Center for the Arts and Marc Monteson Promotions present an ENCORE SHOW! Jazz, Blues, Gospel, Broadway show tunes and standards with Linda Cole, Central Florida’s “Lady of Song” of the Nat King Cole family and The Greg Parnell Trio. $15 Donation at the door. Partial proceeds benefit NSB Jazz Fest and ACA Programs.

Wednesdays, April 4 – 25, 4 PM – 6 PM, ACA Downtown: Harris House. This poetry workshop invites writers, photographers, album-collectors, and artists of all levels and ages – to discover how to craft poems that “listen” and “respond” to the world around us. Participants will bring to each session a photo or an image that will serve as a prompt for us to try our hands at poetic forms: ode, sonnet, haiku, and even the “tweet-poem”. Don’t miss this chance to experiment and grow with Florida Poet Laureate, M.B. McLatchey. Limited to 15 participants. Reserve your spot now!

Come explore art journaling in this class led by artist/art therapist Laura Bohn. The goal of expressive art journaling is to reduce stress and promote relaxation by providing a safe space to play, experiment and gain self-guided insight and understanding of one’s own emotions. Added benefits can include self-growth, discovery, and joy through visual storytelling in a supportive group environment. In this workshop, we explore the possibilities of adding personal and/or universal archetypes to a journal page spread, using mixed media, watercolor, acrylics, and collage. Archetypes can be used as metaphors to gain insight into personal story-telling. $30 / ACA members $20.

First Saturday of every month. Join us Saturday, April 7 with Cathy DeWitt: jazz vocalist, pianist, guitarist, and award-winning songwriter. From piano playing in the hospital lobby to elevator singalongs, from hallway con­certs to bedside harp in the ICUs, Cathy uses music to transform the hospital environment and the patient experience. She has continued to evolve and develop new skills, becoming a harp therapist and a teaching artist for VSA and the National Center for Creative Aging. Free, open to the public.

Benefiting Atlantic Center for the Arts
Silent Auction 11 AM / Live Auction 1 PM
For 35 years, Horsin’ Around has been THE event to enjoy an afternoon with friends in support of the arts! From its innovative beginnings on a horse farm (hence, the name), to its new staging at the Brannon Civic Center with it stunning panoramic view of the Intracoastal Waterway, we invite you to join us!

Join us for a powerful lecture about finding hope in times of crisis, presented by Dr. Lucinda Sloan. Free, and open to the public.

A mandala is a symmetrical design or pattern with a central focus that communicates a personal theme or expresses wholeness. This family-friendly workshop will focus on intuitive art making using oil pastels, collage, and illustration board. Led by artist and expressive arts facilitator, Rachel Chase, participants will be guided through gentle mindful movement and relaxing breathing exercises to get in the mindset for creating a beautiful finished mandala. Have fun exploring your creative side in community with others. Open to all ages! $30 / ACA members $20.

The Inaugural New Smyrna Beach Wine and Food Festival is being held on April 26th from 6pm to 9pm at the World Class Brannon Center, overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. This quintessential wine tasting boasts wines from California’s finest growing areas Napa Valley and Sonoma County as well as international vintages. Discover new wines and an array of gourmet foods from talented chefs. Enjoy an evening of wine, food, fun and music. $55 per person

Join ACA Arts and Wellness ambassador, MAAT art therapist, and professional artist, Laura Bohn for an immersive weekend set in a breathtaking environment. Learn how to use relaxation techniques, painting, and movement as a wellness practice. Discover how to let go and have fun exploring colors, symbols, and mark making. Intuitive Painting can lead to personal insights, storytelling, and healing. Each session focuses on the process and not the product we will create in this safe and nurturing space. We welcome beginning to advanced painters.

Infinite Possibilities is about living life deliberately by learning to use creative writing and artistic collage to visualize your reality. Take full responsibility for your future and learn how to change your life for the better. In this two-part series you will learn how thoughts become things, use a vision book as a bridge for progress, and experience how words create your reality. Led by Certified Whole Life Coach and community artist, Cheri Flauto. All ages welcome!
$10 per session. $5 for ACA members. Each part of the series builds upon the other, but participants will gain benefit from attending a single class. Limited to 15 participants. Register at 386.423.1753 or community@atlanticcenterforthearts.org

A two-day symposium that focuses on caring for caregivers in the military continuum, creative caregiving across the lifespan, and self care.

Come explore art journaling in this class led by artist/art therapist Laura Bohn. The goal of expressive art journaling is to reduce stress and promote relaxation by providing a safe space to play, experiment and gain self-guided insight and understanding of one’s own emotions. Added benefits can include self-growth, discovery, and joy through visual storytelling in a supportive group environment. In this workshop, we explore the possibilities of adding personal and/or universal archetypes to a journal page spread, using mixed media, watercolor, acrylics, and collage. Archetypes can be used as metaphors to gain insight into personal story-telling. $30 / ACA members $20.

Learn Body Dialogue with Janice Rous, a mind/ body practice that synthesizes dance, contemplative movement, energy work, visual journaling and breathing practices in the holistic space of care and compassion. Together, we will explore and share practices such as the Alexander technique, improvisation in voice and movement, breathing coordination and visual journaling. We invite you to receive new tools and learn to listen in a community focused on acceptance and cultivating the joy in self-discovery. Join us at the artist studio complex and breathtaking wilderness of Atlantic Center for the Arts to reclaim your body and your physical and emotional birthright.

An immersion into sound, for relaxation and creative inspiration. Join Soundwalk host, Lady Eve and expressive arts facilitator, Rachel Chase for a guided meditation of sonic vibrations and deep listening. Open to all ages! $30 / ACA members $20.