Celebrate final 2024 Community Art Day with Xavier Pastrano at S.D. Art Museum

The South Dakota Art Museum and Brookings Arts Council invite visitors to their final Community Art Day of the year on Saturday, Dec. 7. 

This free event will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the South Dakota Art Museum, located at 1036 Medary Ave. in Brookings. 

The December event features Xavier Pastrano, a Sioux Falls-based artist, poet and educator, who will guide attendees through the creation of Zentangle art. Zentangle is a meditative drawing technique that encourages creativity while offering a relaxing experience. Known for his energetic teaching style and passion for storytelling, Pastrano’s workshop promises to inspire participants of all ages and skill levels. 

The event will be held in an open-house format, meaning participants can drop in at any time during the three-hour workshop to join the fun. All necessary supplies for the art project will be provided, courtesy of the museum. There is no cost to attend, and no prior art experience is required, making this a welcoming and accessible opportunity for everyone in the community. 

Community Art Day is a collaborative initiative launched in 2022 by the South Dakota Art Museum with the Brookings Arts Council and regional artists. The program invites people of all ages to engage with fine arts techniques in a relaxed and supportive environment. Over the years, it has become a cherished tradition, bringing together families, friends and individuals to create and connect through art. 

"Over the past three years, Community Art Day has become a beloved tradition for families, friends and individuals in our region," said Abigail Ramsbottom-Cuevas, curator of education at the South Dakota Art Museum. "We’re thrilled to celebrate the end of 2024 with Xavier Pastrano’s engaging workshop, and we can’t wait to continue this series into its fourth year in 2025." 

This year’s final session is a unique opportunity to create some homemade holiday cards, connect with friends and family, and enjoy art. The South Dakota Art Museum and Brookings Arts Council are also extending an invitation to continue the journey in 2025. Six events are planned for next year, with dates set for March 1, May 3, June 28, Aug. 2, Oct. 25 and Dec. 13, 2025. Each event will feature a free, unique project and a new opportunity to learn from local and regional artists. 

For more information about the Dec. 7 event or the upcoming 2025 series, visit the South Dakota Art Museum’s website or contact the museum at 605-688-5423.