In this four-week Art Afterschool series, young artists explore the playful side of design by inventing “nonsense tools” — objects that look useful but serve unusual, silly, or unexpected purposes. Starting with familiar tools and everyday objects, participants twist, combine, and reinvent forms to create something entirely new. 

Using foundational clay handbuilding techniques, artists focus on building sturdy forms while experimenting with shape, texture, and detail to suggest imagined function. Inspired by contemporary artworks and installations throughout The New Children’s Museum that transform everyday objects in surprising ways, participants discover how creativity can reshape how we see and use the world around us. 

Why This Matters 
Inventing nonsense tools encourages creative problem-solving and flexible thinking. Working with clay builds fine motor skills and confidence while helping young artists see objects as starting points for imagination. 

What To Expect 

• Imagining and sketching tools with unusual or humorous purposes 

• Learning foundational clay handbuilding techniques 

• Exploring shape, texture, and detail to suggest imagined use 

• Observing contemporary artworks and Museum installations 

• Sharing ideas and creations with peers 

These programs are designed as small-group experiences with limited enrollment. Register now to secure your artist’s spot today! 

Tickets + Museum Admission 

• Registration is required and includes 1 spot. Members get $20 off any Art Afterschool series. Please be sure you are logged into your Member Portal to activate the discount. 

• Registration for this workshop does not include general Museum admission. If you’d like to explore the Museum, separate admission is required and available at the Welcome Desk. All participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult to explore the Museum.  

 Drop-off + Pick-up 

• Location: Enter Artopia: NCM Creative Studios from the Union Street side of The New Children’s Museum, near the corner of Union and Island. 

• Program check-in is from 3:45 pm-4 pm. After class pick-up is from 6 pm-6:15 pm. 

• All artists must be signed in and out of each session. Only adults listed at registration may pick up your child. Please confirm your authorized adult list at drop-off. We cannot release artists to anyone not listed or without valid ID. 

Questions about parking, accessibility, or our cancellation policy?  
Visit our Artopia: NCM Creative Studios FAQs page for all the details you need to plan your visit: https://thinkplaycreate.org/artopia-faqs/