UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
Halloween Jewelry Making Workshop with Joy Joshua
Use spooky charms, beads and colors for creating charm bracelets, earrings, necklaces and keychains. During this immersive, hands-on course, you will embark on a journey to discover the art of creating unique jewelry pieces using beads, raw materials and metals.
Under the expert guidance of Joy Joshua, you will delve into intricate techniques and uncover the secrets behind crafting beautiful jewelry. After learning these skills you will have the opportunity to make your own jewelry to take home.
For ages 10 to 13.
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Register by clicking link below:
Create Your Path: Turning Talent into Opportunity with Joy Joshua
Designed for ages 16–24, this interactive workshop invites young people to explore how their talents, interests, and big ideas can become a side hustle, business, or future career. Participants will discover creative career and educational pathways, learn the basics of pricing and profit, and build a Creative Business Vision Board to bring their ideas to life.
Come ready to dream, create, and take your next step!
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Register by clicking link below:
Floral Arrangements Workshop with Joy Joshua
Tis the season to decorate your home for the holidays. Join Journey and Thingz in this fun creative program and design one floral arrangement to showcase in your home or give away as a gift.
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Register by clicking link below
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Click below to register:
Halloween Jewelry Extravaganza
Get ready for a spooktacular creative adventure at the library featuring Journey & Thingz. Join us for a Halloween Jewelry-Making Extravaganza featuring a festive bead bar packed with colorful beads, creepy-cute charms and fun accessories. All supplies will be provided.
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Registered by clicking link below
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Register by clicking below:
Jewelry Repair & Upcycled Fashion with Joy Joshua
Give your jewelry a fresh start! Join Journey & Thingz for a hands-on workshop where you can repair beloved pieces and transform forgotten accessories into something uniquely yours. Explore fabric, beads, and a variety of materials as you experiment with creative ways to restore and reimagine your jewelry. Bring old or broken pieces and discover how a little creativity can turn what you already own into something you’ll love wearing again.
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Register by clicking link below:
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Register by clicking link below:
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
This workshop highlights the accomplishments of Black Chicago sculptors with a spotlight on Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins. Hunt, a world-renowned sculptor and printmaker born in Chicago’s Woodlawn community and raised in Englewood, became one of the leading 20th century American artists. During his acclaimed 60-year career, he was a significant creator of public art in Chicago and across the U.S., with 160 public sculpture commissions in 24 states that included monuments of several notable figures.
Create your own mixed-media sculptures using clay, wire, cardboard, aluminum foil, and paint, inspired by Hunt’s abstract forms and his ability to transform metal into movement. Art activities may include:
Modular Sculptures: Using geometric shapes and layering to build height and form.
Figurative Abstractions: Inspired by Giacometti and Picasso, reflecting Hunt’s ability to mix realism with abstraction.
Community-Inspired Designs: Prompting participants to reflect on what their neighborhoods mean to them, much like Hunt did with his public installations.
This workshop encourages both creative expression and a deeper appreciation for one of Chicago’s most influential artists.
Presented as part of the Renaissance Project, this event invites participants to actively engage with the rich and often untold stories of Black history and heritage at Chicago Public Library. This program is led by artist Joy Joshua.
This program is made possible with support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
Entrepreneurship in Jewelry-Making With Joy Joshua
Learn about what it takes to turn a hobby like jewelry-making, into a full-time business with entrepreneur Joy Joshua. Joy Joshua is the founder and creative facilitator of Journey & Thingz, LLC. You'll also have the opportunity to try out jewelry-making - it might be the beginning of your own small business!
This event is aimed for teens and young adults between the ages of 16 - 24. Registration is required. Click link below
Art Workshop with Joy Joshua
Discover the magic of mixed media art in this hands-on creative experience led by artist Joy Joshua.
Participants will explore a dynamic “material buffet” featuring a variety of traditional art supplies and unexpected textural elements. Through layering, combining, and experimenting with materials, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind artwork full of depth and visual interest.
This workshop encourages creative freedom and exploration, making it perfect for all skill levels. All materials are provided. Come ready to play, experiment, and bring your ideas to life.
Journey & Thingz at the African Festival of the Arts
Visit Journey & Thingz at the African Festival of the Arts for a fun, hands-on jewelry experience. Build your own jewelry kit, create at our booth, or take your kit home to enjoy later.
Jewelry Making Workshop with Joy Joshua
During this immersive and hands-on course, students will embark on a journey to discover the art of creating unique jewelry pieces using beads, raw materials, and metals. Under the expert guidance of Joy Joshua, each student will delve into intricate techniques and uncover the secrets behind crafting beautiful jewelry. After learning these skills students will have the opportunity to make their own necklace, bracelet and/or earrings to take home.
Jewelry Making Workshop
Join us as we welcome artist and creative facilitator Joy Joshua, founder of Journey & Thingz, for a hands-on jewelry making experience at the library.
Participants will explore a vibrant Bead Buffet filled with a wide variety of colorful beads and design elements to create a custom piece of jewelry. Whether you choose to design a bracelet, necklace, or pair of earrings, you’ll learn the fundamentals of jewelry making in a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment.
This creative workshop is perfect for all skill levels and encourages self-expression, creativity, and community connection. All materials are provided. Leave with a handmade piece that reflects your personal style.
Space is limited. Registration required.
Jewelry Making Workshop for Teens with Journey and Thingz
During this immersive and hands-on workshop, students will learn intricate techniques and secrets behind crafting beautiful jewelry pieces. After learning these skills, students will have the opportunity to make their own necklace, bracelet and/or earrings to take home.
What sets our workshop apart is our buffet-style approach, offering a wide variety of beads, raw materials and metals. This unique feature provides students with the freedom to curate pieces that perfectly align with their personal style.
For teens 13 to 19 years.
Jewelry Making with Joy Joshua
Join us for a hands-on jewelry-making experience led by artist and creative facilitator Joy Joshua, founder of Journey & Thingz.
Participants will explore a vibrant Bead Buffet filled with a wide variety of gemstones, glass, ceramic, and specialty beads to design their own custom pieces. Create a bracelet, necklace, earrings, or a full set that reflects your personal style.
This beginner-friendly workshop is perfect for all skill levels and encourages creativity, self-expression, and community connection. All materials are provided. Leave with handmade jewelry you’ll be proud to wear or gift.
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
Sculpt Like Hunt & Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
Meet Marjorie Stewart Joyner: Hair Ornament Workshop
Innovation. Beauty. Legacy.
Join me for Meet Marjorie Stewart Joyner: Hair Ornament Workshop — a creative experience inspired by the groundbreaking inventor, educator, and beauty pioneer.
Together, we’ll explore her impact and design our own custom hair ornaments — blending history, culture, and self-expression.
This workshop is about honoring Black ingenuity while creating something meaningful with your own hands.
Registration is open through Chicago Public Library.
Come learn, create, and celebrate legacy.
Jewelry Making Workshop
Get into the Mother's Day spirit with a special jewelry-making workshop perfect for crafting unique, handmade gifts for your loved ones! Under the expert guidance of Joy Joshua, you’ll explore creative techniques using beads, raw materials and metals to design your necklace, bracelet or earrings.
This hands-on experience is a wonderful way to create personalized gifts that showcase your creativity and thoughtfulness, just in time for Mother's Day.
For adults, teens and kids 10 and up.
Registrations opens on May 2nd - Spots are limited
Meet Marjorie Stewart Joyner: Hair Ornament Workshop
Innovation. Beauty. Legacy.
Join me for Meet Marjorie Stewart Joyner: Hair Ornament Workshop — a creative experience inspired by the groundbreaking inventor, educator, and beauty pioneer.
Together, we’ll explore her impact and design our own custom hair ornaments — blending history, culture, and self-expression.
This workshop is about honoring Black ingenuity while creating something meaningful with your own hands.
Registration is open through Chicago Public Library.
Come learn, create, and celebrate legacy.
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
Sculpt Like Hunt & Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
Jewelry Making Workshop
Join us as we welcome artist and creative facilitator Joy Joshua, founder of Journey & Thingz, for a hands-on jewelry making experience at the library.
Participants will explore a vibrant Bead Buffet filled with a wide variety of colorful beads and design elements to create a custom piece of jewelry. Whether you choose to design a bracelet, necklace, or pair of earrings, you’ll learn the fundamentals of jewelry making in a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment.
This creative workshop is perfect for all skill levels and encourages self-expression, creativity, and community connection. All materials are provided. Leave with a handmade piece that reflects your personal style.
Meet Marjorie Stewart Joyner: Hair Ornament Workshop
Meet Marjorie Stewart Joyner: Hair Ornament Workshop
Jewelry Making Workshop
Create your own custom jewelry in this hands-on workshop led by artist Joy Joshua of Journey & Thingz. Explore a vibrant Bead Buffet filled with gemstones, ceramic, glass, and wood beads while designing bracelets, necklaces, earrings, or anklets that reflect your personal style.
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
Art. Legacy. Storytelling.
Join me for Sculpt Like Hunt & Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop — a hands-on experience inspired by the powerful work of Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins.
We’ll explore sculpture through history, archival storytelling, and creative expression — then create our own original pieces rooted in identity and imagination.
This is more than an art class. It’s a chance to connect with Chicago’s artistic legacy and shape something meaningful with your own hands.
Registration is open through Chicago Public Library.
Reserve your spot and come sculpt with us.
Meet Marjorie Stewart Joyner: Hair Ornament Workshop
Innovation. Beauty. Legacy.
Join us as we welcome artist and creative facilitator Joy Joshua, founder of Journey & Thingz, for a hands-on jewelry making experience at the library.
Meet Marjorie Stewart Joyner: Hair Ornament Workshop — a creative experience inspired by the groundbreaking inventor, educator, and beauty pioneer.
Together, we’ll explore her impact and design our own custom hair ornaments — blending history, culture, and self-expression.
This workshop is about honoring Black ingenuity while creating something meaningful with your own hands. Come learn, create, and celebrate legacy.
Registration is open through Chicago Public Library. Click link below:
Small Business Cafe
Join Joy Joshua, Founder of Journey & Thingz, for a virtual Small Business Café hosted by Chicago Public Library. In this candid conversation, Joy shares the wins, challenges, and lessons from her 2025 business year — offering real insights for creatives, entrepreneurs, and small business owners navigating growth.
Sculpt Like Hunt and Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop
Art. Legacy. Storytelling.
Join me for Sculpt Like Hunt & Perkins: A Creative Sculpting Workshop — a hands-on experience inspired by the powerful work of Richard Hunt and Marion Perkins.
We’ll explore sculpture through history, archival storytelling, and creative expression — then create our own original pieces rooted in identity and imagination.
This is more than an art class. It’s a chance to connect with Chicago’s artistic legacy and shape something meaningful with your own hands.
Registration is open through Chicago Public Library.
Reserve your spot and come sculpt with us.
Art That Holds Our Stories: A Racial Healing Storytelling & Identity Weaving Experience with Joy Joshua
Join artist and creative facilitator Joy Joshua of Journey & Thingz for Art That Holds Our Stories, a reflective, intergenerational experience presented as part of Threads of Healing in recognition of the ALA National Day of Racial Healing. Through guided storytelling, reflection, and hands-on creative expression, you are invited to explore your identity, your sense of belonging, and your personal threads of connection.
You will create a mixed-media Identity Weaving using yarn, fabric strips, written prompts, colored paper, and symbolic materials. Each strand you choose can represent a memory, a value, a community, or a source of healing. As you weave your threads together, you’ll visually express your story and engage in a collective moment of understanding and shared healing. This is a space to slow down, reflect, and honor the experiences that shaped you.
Optional: You are welcome to bring a small photo, fabric scrap, written memory, or symbolic object that reflects a meaningful part of your story. You may weave or add this item into your artwork.
Kwanzaa-Inspired Jewelry Making Workshop with Journey and Thingz
Join us for a special jewelry-making workshop inspired by the spirit of Kwanzaa! In this hands-on program, participants will learn simple jewelry-making techniques while exploring the holiday’s seven principles
Kwanzaa-Inspired Jewelry Making Workshop with Journey and Thingz
Join us for a special jewelry-making workshop inspired by the spirit of Kwanzaa! In this hands-on program, participants will learn simple jewelry-making techniques while exploring the holiday’s seven principles.