3 upcoming events with the art education tag

Celebrate artistry and joy at Happy Little Fest, honoring the beloved Bob Ross, his lasting legacy, and his famous “happy little” approach to art. Spend the day surrounded by all things Bob—watch live painting demos, view original Bob Ross masterpieces, and test your knowledge with Bob Ross trivia. Hop on a shuttle to explore WIPB’s studio at Ball State University, where later seasons of “The Joy of Painting” were filmed, then refuel with refreshing drinks and delicious bites from local food trucks. Enjoy live music from local artists and take part in the Bob Ross Look-Alike Competition!

Want to paint like Bob? Purchase a $55 ticket for one of our Bob Ross Painting Workshops—kids paint at 1 p.m. and adults at 3 p.m.—and create your own “happy little” masterpiece to take home. No experience necessary—just bring your creativity and let your imagination flow! Preregistration is strongly preferred for painting workshops; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

Please note: Your Happy Little Fest ticket covers admission to Minnetrista Museum & Gardens ticketed exhibitions (including the "Bob Ross Experience").

Happy Little Fest is presented in partnership with Ball State PBS, Bob Ross Inc., and Minnetrista Museum & Gardens.

This event is made possible by the generous support of Bob Ross, Inc., Masters Insurance, Dillman's Furniture and Mattress, and Parker Electrical Service.

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. Pre-registration is strongly 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.

What makes a place feel like home? For many immigrant families in East Central Indiana, it’s the textiles they carried, created, and passed down through generations—woven, embroidered, or stitched with stories.

Local metalsmith Jessica Calderwood has transformed those stories into striking enameled copper plates for her new exhibition, Threads of Home. During this discussion, Jessica will sit down with several of the very individuals whose histories and traditions shaped her work. Together, they’ll share the memories behind the imagery—an evening of conversation, artistry, and celebration of the cultural heritage that continues to shape our community.

Pre-registration is encouraged. Limited walk-in seating may be available, so please call ahead.