This summer I had the opportunity to host two Pastel Nagomi Art workshops with the support of a Neighbourhood Small Grants. One invited parents and children to create together, while the other welcomed adults. The theme, Blossoms in Harmony, was inspired by Richmond’s vibrant sunflower fields. Pastel Nagomi Art is a dry pastel technique originally from Japan. It is calming, inclusive, and beginner-friendly, yet still quite new in Canada. My aim was to use this art form to bring neighbours together in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
The workshops were a success. Both sessions were well attended, and participants engaged with great enthusiasm. Many shared that this was their first time hearing about Pastel Nagomi Art. By the end of each session, participants left not only with their own artwork but also with a sense of joy, connection, and appreciation for each other’s creativity. The workshops fulfilled my hope of making art more approachable while fostering harmony and community spirit.
One delightful surprise was the variety of outcomes. Although the sunflower theme guided the session, participants quickly expanded their ideas, experimenting with different flowers and creative compositions. It was uplifting to see people who began by saying they were not artistic proudly share their finished work, and to watch others celebrate the diversity of styles in the group.
A memorable moment for me was witnessing participants’ reactions when they stepped back to view their completed artwork. Some had felt uncertain or faced small difficulties during the process, but they were amazed by how beautiful their pieces turned out. This captures the essence of Pastel Nagomi Art. The practice emphasizes process over perfection, encourages mindfulness, and helps people release self-judgment. The final outcome often arrives as a joyful surprise.
Through this project I learned how meaningful it is to see people explore creativity in a relaxed and non-judgmental setting. It reminded me that art is not only about the final piece but about the moments shared during the process.
