Cori Jo’s Studio Creative Gatherings

A cozy, beginner-friendly creative experience centered around art, creativity, connection, and intentional gathering.

In a noisy world, Creative Gatherings offer a slower, more intentional space to create, connect, and breathe.

I believe we’re all born with the gift to create — we’re all artists in one way or another.

Sometimes our creativity is visible and practiced. Other times, it’s been tucked away quietly beneath responsibility, fear, or the noise of everyday life.

But the spark is still there.

And when we gather around a table with beautiful materials, gentle encouragement, and permission to create without pressure, something inside us begins to come alive again.

Signature Offerings

Creative Gatherings offers beginner-friendly art experiences designed to encourage creativity, connection, and enjoyment. Whether painting with watercolor, creating handmade cards, or exploring seasonal projects, guests are invited to slow down, create, and leave with something meaningful they made themselves.

Watercolor & Paper-Based Gatherings

  • Relaxed beginner-friendly watercolor experiences designed to encourage creativity, conversation, and confidence in a cozy, low-pressure environment.
  • Examples include: 11×14 watercolor paintings (wildflowers, cacti, pumpkins, ornaments, spring bouquets, etc.), greeting cards, art journaling
  • Starting at $350 for up to 10 participants
  • Additional participants may be added for an additional fee

Acrylic Canvas Gatherings

  • Step-by-step guidance and all the materials your groups needs to create a fun acrylic and canvas project – no experience needed!
  • Examples include: 11×14 or 16×20 canvas paintings: cacti, wildflowers, seasonal elements such as pumpkins, pine trees, etc.
  • Starting at $450 for up to 10 participants
  • Additional participants may be added for an additional fee

Private Events

  • Creative gatherings for birthdays, girls’ nights, church groups, retirement communities, homeschool groups, and other intentional celebrations.
  • Custom events and larger groups are welcome. Contact me for details!

📍 Creative Gatherings currently serves communities throughout the East Valley. Travel beyond this area may be available for an additional fee.

The Gathering Experience

  • Beautiful materials and thoughtfully prepared creative projects
  • Beginner-friendly guidance in a calm, encouraging environment
  • Cozy small-group experiences centered around creativity and connection
  • Optional treats and curated creative extras available for some Gatherings
  • A low-pressure space to slow down, create, and enjoy the process

Hi, I’m Cori — artist, creative educator, and founder of Cori Jo’s Studio in Gilbert, AZ.

I offer small-group art gatherings for adults and youth that build confidence through guided, hands-on practice. With decades of experience in both personal art and instruction, I design gatherings that encourage exploration, self-expression, and creative resilience. Whether you’re a budding artist or not sure you have any real artistic nature, each session is designed to nurture curiosity, skill, and self-trust. 🤎

Read more of my story here.


How do Creative Gatherings work?

  • Gather a group of at least eight friends, family members, co-workers, or fellow creatives.
  • No artistic experience is needed — just a willingness to slow down, create, and enjoy the process.
  • Compete the Request a Gathering form and share a little about your group, interests, and preferred gathering style.
  • Most gatherings are approximately two hours. Some projects can be adapted to 90 minutes if needed. Additional time may be available for an added fee.
  • Gatherings are paid in advance to reserve your date. I currently accept Venmo and Zelle.
  • Want something specific? I’m happy to customize projects and themes whenever possible. Additional design fees may apply for original concepts.
  • I’ve spent most of my life exploring art and creativity through many different mediums. Curious about a particular project or material? Just ask!
  • Your Gathering fee includes the materials needed to complete your selected project. I may also bring a few curated creative products available for optional purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need any artistic experience?

Not at all. Creative Gatherings are intentionally designed to be welcoming and beginner-friendly. My goal is to create a relaxed, encouraging environment where people can explore creativity without pressure or perfectionism.

What types of projects can we create?

Gatherings may include watercolor painting, acrylic painting, handmade cards, paper crafts, journaling projects, seasonal artwork, and other cozy creative experiences. We’ll choose a project together based on your group, interests, and gathering style.

What ages do you work with?

I primarily offer private Creative Gatherings for adults looking for a cozy, beginner-friendly experience centered around art, connection, and intentional gathering. I can also create customized experiences for youth and children.

Where do Gatherings take place?

Private art gatherings are held either at your home, a local clubhouse, church room, backyard, housing common room, library… Gatherings can be hosted in a variety of cozy community or home settings depending on what works best for your group. Some gatherings may take place at my home studio.

How large are Gatherings?

Most Gatherings are intentionally kept small and personal to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Larger group events may be possible depending on the location and project type.

Do I need to provide any supplies?

I provide all materials needed for your selected project. Depending on the Gathering, I may also bring a few curated creative products available for optional purchase. Since we’ll be working with art materials, I recommend wearing clothes that can handle the occasional splash of paint and a smock or apron.

How much does a Creative Gathering cost?

Every Gathering is unique – from the number of guests attending to the materials and creative experience we choose together. Most Creative Gatherings range from approximately $35–$50 per guest.

Once you fill out the Request a Gathering form, we’ll chat through the details and create a gathering experience that fits your group, goals, and budget.

How do I schedule a Creative Gathering?

Just gather a group of friends and complete the Request a Gathering form. I’ll follow up within 1–2 business days to talk through the details, answer any questions, and schedule your session.

Can food or treats be included?

Yes! In most cases, you will provide your own drinks and treats. However, depending on the Gathering, I may be able to provide optional homemade treats or light refreshments through Cori Jo’s Artisan Kitchen for an additional fee.

What if we need to cancel or reschedule?

I totally understand that life happens. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please let me know at least 3 days in advance so I can plan accordingly. Because supplies are prepared in advance, I’m not able to offer refunds, but I’m happy to apply a credit toward a rescheduled gathering whenever possible. No-shows or last-minute cancellations will not be eligible for rescheduling.

Can I book multiple Gatherings or a series?

Yes! I love working with groups over time. You’re welcome to book recurring Gatherings, create a short series of themed sessions, or bundle a few events together. We’ll chat about what works best for your family or group.


Join me for updates on future Gatherings, seasonal workshops, creative inspiration, and new offerings from the Studio.

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