Learn more about Diana Stelin, an award-winning artist and educator specializing in contemporary abstract landscapes and experiential art workshops / Gallery / Artists / Diana Stelin / Diana Stelin Diana Stelin is an award-winning landscape artist and educator, author and fashion designer. Her lush, layered, shimmering gold leaf, oil and wax pieces are featured in dozens of private and corporate collections. Her interviews can be found in Boston Globe, HyperAllergic, Huffington Post, Mother Nature Network among others. Learn about Commissions "I admire the expression Diana achieves through her energized marks. They animate each painting and really bring them to life. They are very well painted and capture not just an interesting cross between the actual and the abstracted, but really provide a sense of place with quite positive energy.” – Elizabeth Erdreich President at Erdreich White Fine Art, Inc. "Her sense of color and tone rivals that of the Modern Masters. Her compositions flirt with fantasy yet somehow keep two feet planted firmly on the ground." Caroline Cox Fine Art Consultant, Salem, MA "So grounding! All the while the wind is blowing in so many directions and there is such fervor in every day these days - but the center is there holding it all together! Art can give strength. This is proof." Petra Brookline, MA Get to know Diana Bio Founder of the Flow Method, and recipient of Best of Boston award, Diana Stelin is on a mission to reduce Burnout through Creativity - the topic of the Ted talk she presented in March'22. Her pieces are in private and corporate collections nationwide. Diana's life of creative exploration began when she was 13. Her family relocated from Moldova to Bloomfield, New Jersey and she enrolled in an art class. Through her difficult teenage years, she found solace in expressing herself through creating art. Her BFA degree at Cornell University was followed by a MS at Boston University, where she continued to develop a unique free-flowing painting style. After graduation, she managed the world-renowned DTR Modern Galleries. She subsequently founded The Plein-Air Art Academy, and received a Best of Boston Award for kids' art classes. Diana published a highly acclaimed novel about the importance of art for our psyche, and in recent years has presented a TedX talk on using creativity to fight burnout, appeared as a guest on multiple podcasts, wrote a children’s book, founded a clothing line based on her art, and exhibited her work at the 2022 Venice Biennale. She lives in the Boston area but her pieces are in corporate and private collections worldwide, and she uses her expertise in her proprietary flow processes as a consultant in creative corporate workshops and talks. Technique Stelin paints multilayered palette knife landscapes in oil and cold wax, which she partially melts with a heating lamp to dissolve different objects on canvas into one another. The drips are her signature element: the dark ones are emotional strokes that create grids within a painting. The lighter ones are semitransparent, and partially show the layers of paint beneath them. Stelin's technique is a dance between realistic and abstract landscapes, between watercolor and oil techniques. She begins with a watercolor in plein-air. Stelin subsequently translates the drawing to canvas in the same expressive manner adopted for the initial watercolor painting, employing an impasto technique of oils mixed with cold wax. The last and most rewarding part of the process is the melting of wax. It comes as a 4th or 5th layer of the painting. It requires patience, has an element of surprise, yet can be controlled, and it connects various sections of the unique oil on canvas. Because it's a textured layer on top of other layers, it breaks down lines between subjects, and literally melts one state into another. It also creates mini compositions within a painting, so that your eye always wanders around the canvas and catches new nuances hidden within the layers. At the same time Stelin adds in authentic gold leaf to the now abstract landscape, as well as 3-D sculptural elements. Artist Statement "We're but a small speck in this universe" Diana Stelin's artwork is an exploration of humanity's interaction with the natural world - the attitude of overarching control and distancing, the physical space around us and our perception of it. To what extent can we dissolve into our surroundings and co-exist with the natural world? Stelin's artworks appeal to an audience from varied angles. Their initial reaction to the full compositions brings back expressive Van Gogh and Gauguin landscape explorations. Past the initial impression, there's a deeper understanding: a more in-depth look into the interaction of man-made and natural forms. The abstract, Richter-influenced patterns emerge. Stand close enough and you see how Stelin expertly catches that moment when a viewer allows herself/himself to truly melt into the surroundings, and when borders break between the sky and the trees, when the architecture blends beautifully into the natural world.

Rent a beautiful gallery space for private events, parties, workshops, and gatherings. A unique venue with artistic charm. Rent the space for your creative needs A unique gallery in Coolidge Corner, Brookline Rent the space for birthday parties, corporate retreats, private events & celebrations, author talks, networking events and more! Book Recent Reviews: We hosted graduation parties, baby showers, yoga retreats and more! "What a wonderful experience from start to finish! Diana was great to work with and the gallery is lovely. Held a small graduation cocktail party and everyone raved about the space. I would highly recommend as an event location." Jane "Space was way bigger than expected. Really clean, host is very helpful and nice." Nydiva "Beautiful clean space filled with gorgeous art work. Diana and Paige were so kind and made us feel so welcomed. They went over and beyond with help setting up and cleaning up. Also there were activities for the kids which was a plus. I would recommend this venue to everyone!!!" Nerissa "Diana was so accommodating/kind. I was able to lead a holiday yoga class with all my friends and fit 10 mats in the room. She helped us set up/cleanup and let us in once we arrived. Her space was clean, filled with natural light and beautifully decorated. We will definitely be booking the space again and would love to work with her soon. If you haven’t already, please check out this space you won’t regret it!" Sophia Private Events & Celebrations $185 per hour | 3 hour minimum Why should kids be the only ones having birthday parties? We think you should keep celebrating your birthdays, graduations, and big life moments, but in a unique setting. Elevate the atmosphere of your event and enjoy a surrounding of art with wine and cheese to accompany it. We provide 2 standing tables, 2 long tables, and some limited seating. There is street parking available. You provide decorations and food/drink. Our capacity is 60 people for standing room events and 30 seating functions. Corporate Retreats 8 minimum/ 30 maximum Inquire about Pricing All Materials Included Battle workplace burnout by bringing your office team to an art-centered event. This also stimulates innovation, brainstorming ideas, community. We offer painting and sculpture classes geared towards professionals seeking the meditative and therapeutic advantages of art-making. We can accommodate up to 20 people, and art materials are provided. Rent the space for an evening and invite your office to explore a new kind of creative outlet. Networking, innovating, & brainstorming $185 per hour | 3 hour minimum This is your art gathering space: your innovation room, your opportunity to think outside the box. Rent the venue for your networking event; to promote your next book, project, or idea; to host a discussion panel or group mixer. We'll provide tables, on street parking, cutlery and table cloths. Either do a working session in our two co-working spaces, or host a cocktail party. See Also Kids Birthday Party Learn More Private Event for Adults Learn More Corporate Installs See Also First Light Thu, Dec 04 Brookline +9 more RSVP Inaugural Book Club hosted by Boston (EOA) Entrepreneurs Organization Thu, Jan 15 Brookline See All RSVP

Discover Diana Stelin’s art gallery in Brookline, MA. Explore fine art, classes, events, rentals, and custom commissions designed to inspire your space. Shop original paintings and book art services. | DianaStelin Art Enthusiast "This gallery is a gem where community meets art and talent and culture and history and where you can take art classes from a master artist as well as view and purchase masterpieces and couture." Reserve a Space Parent "My kids attended the summer camp and loved it. Diana created a wonderful art camp experience, learning about different art techniques in a variety of mediums and settings." See Summer Camp GOOGLE "For 3+ years I have partnered with Diana to host dozens of interactive art workshops for our Google employees - and the series has been a smashing success!" See Corporate Workshops Art Enthusiast "Diana is amazing both as a artist and as a teacher. We've never bought original art before and I had no idea of how to do this." See Diana's Art On view now Holiday Small Works Show Featuring: Sophia Singer Eiko Tabata, Sharon Whitham, Erin Starr, Michaela Lyons, Liliana Marquez, and Lisa Goren October 31st-January 2nd See Our Exhibitons About Us Diana Stelin Gallery & Creative Studio in Coolidge Corner is a transformative art space dedicated to creativity as a path through change. The gallery highlights female artists rooted in sustainability and emotional storytelling, while the studio hosts SPARK-based retreats, corporate workshops, and award-winning art programs for youth and adults. Read More An Oasis for Creativity Our Blog Read More Articles

This is more than a half day away. It’s a reset designed to ignite creativity, restore balance, and spark momentum that carries into tomorrow. What participants are saying: “Sunday was truly special. It felt grounding and thought-provoking, giving me space to grow and get to know myself more. After not touching a paintbrush for 30 years, I was surprised by my results and inspired to keep art in my routine. Sharing the experience with my kids made it even more meaningful.” “The most relaxing, non-stressful day I’ve had in years. I left renewed and energized.” “I didn’t walk away with all the answers, but I took major steps forward—and the momentum carried into the next day.” “The creative sessions got me out of my comfort zone. I felt supported, uplifted, and surprisingly energized.” What the half day looks like: Through guided movement, meditation, journaling, drawing and painting, you’ll reconnect with yourself in ways that feel playful, restorative, and eye-opening. Healthy, nourishing meals and intentional pauses keep you fueled and grounded throughout. This isn’t about escaping life—it’s about evolving into your next chapter with more energy, more clarity, and more creativity. From spark to momentum in just one day. On December 7th we're joined by Chiara from Figurella. Start your wellness journey with the Figurella Posture Class, a guided session designed to help you move smarter, feel stronger, and carry that sense of alignment into every part of your life. Under the expert guidance of Chiara, you’ll learn how to properly align your shoulders, spine, hips, and ankles to support your body through every movement—whether in workouts, daily activities, or simply standing tall. Through gentle, targeted techniques, Chiara will show you how to correct posture, release tension, and activate key stabilizing muscles. You’ll discover how small, mindful adjustments can create big changes in comfort, strength, and overall well-being. This session offers an inspiring introduction to the core principles and strengthening methods of Figurella. Participants are invited to book a complimentary consultation for personalized guidance and next steps in their wellness journey.

Summer Theme: Earth Exploration Week Theme: Forest Experience Creativity, Fun, and Adventure All Week Long! Join us for an exciting blend of art, games, outdoor fun, treasure hunts, quests, board games, and dance! Each week is packed with unforgettable moments and hands-on creativity as we dive deep into art history, exploring different styles and techniques using a variety of materials every day. Daily Schedule: 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Welcome & card games 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Outdoor fun at the park or playground 10:45 AM – 11:00 AM: Snack break 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Art class for younger kids 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: Lunch 12:30 PM – 1:45 PM: Art class for older kids 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Collaborative activity (dance, puppet-making, yoga, or martial arts) 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Free drawing time Throughout the week, guest teachers will join us, and we’ll partner with local businesses to offer unique programs. Enjoy free ice cream on Thursdays and Pizza Fridays to wrap up the fun! We end each week with a professional art exhibit and critique, where participants showcase their creations in a gallery-style setting, celebrating their hard work and creativity. Ready for a creative adventure your child will never forget? Sign up today and secure your spot!

Summer Theme: Earth Exploration Week Theme: Underground/Caves Experience Creativity, Fun, and Adventure All Week Long! Join us for an exciting blend of art, games, outdoor fun, treasure hunts, quests, board games, and dance! Each week is packed with unforgettable moments and hands-on creativity as we dive deep into art history, exploring different styles and techniques using a variety of materials every day. Daily Schedule: 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Welcome & card games 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Outdoor fun at the park or playground 10:45 AM – 11:00 AM: Snack break 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Art class for younger kids 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: Lunch 12:30 PM – 1:45 PM: Art class for older kids 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Collaborative activity (dance, puppet-making, yoga, or martial arts) 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Free drawing time Throughout the week, guest teachers will join us, and we’ll partner with local businesses to offer unique programs. Enjoy free ice cream on Thursdays and Pizza Fridays to wrap up the fun! We end each week with a professional art exhibit and critique, where participants showcase their creations in a gallery-style setting, celebrating their hard work and creativity. Ready for a creative adventure your child will never forget? Sign up today and secure your spot!

I’ve been carrying a lot these days. Two major conference presentations, end-of-year goals for my business, and the sting of slower gallery sales have all piled up at once. And everywhere I look—whether in my classes, among my clients, or in conversations with friends—people are stretched thin. Job losses, world events, uncertainty about the future…it’s weighing on everyone. On nights like these, I barely sleep. The night before anything big has always been a lost cause. So how am I trying to offset the stress? I’m doing the opposite of what my instinct tells me.Instead of tightening the reins and pushing myself harder, I’m stepping away. I’m forcing myself to paint, to refill my cup, even when time feels impossibly tight. (This is something I talk about often with students in my painting classes in Boston —the moment you think you don’t have time is often the moment you need creativity most.) Yesterday I even took a midday nap. It felt indulgent, but my body asked for it. And over the weekend, I pushed myself to reset in another way. I took the family to Snowport—wandering the stalls, sipping hot chocolate and Tuscan mulled wine, getting a little literal distance from my daily whirlwind, even if it was just the other side of town. That tiny shift helped loosen something. It reminded me that stepping away, physically and mentally, creates real space. Back in the studio, the creative process reflected all of this. Not every painting session is productive. Yesterday was a mess of wrong color combinations and frustration from start to finish. Today I had only 30 minutes, but those 30 minutes opened into an entirely new palette and a surprising burst of energy. That’s the part I love—and the part I teach in my art classes in Boston and Brookline. It’s never about the time or the final product. It’s about stepping out of your head so new ideas have room to move. That’s when innovation happens, in art and in life. And with how stressed everyone seems right now, I want to gently remind you to give yourself the same grace.Take a break. Find whatever helps you breathe again. If that breather comes through creativity, we have a few beautiful ways to support you: Our upcoming half-day creative retreat in Boston  is designed to help you ease into the holidays with grounding, art-making, journaling, and quiet connection. It’s been getting rave reviews and it’s one of my favorite offerings. Our Small Works show  is now live online. If you’re craving inspiration at home—or searching for meaningful holiday gifts in Boston —this curated collection is a wonderful place to explore. For families planning ahead, our Black Friday camp special  is still active. Our summer camps routinely rank among the most-loved kids’ art programs in Boston , and this is the best pricing we offer all year. And of course, our Brookline art studio  is always open for creative team outings, private workshops, and community events. Whatever you need right now—quiet, color, movement, connection—I hope you give yourself room to take it. We’re here when you need us.

I’ve been thinking a lot about how much we all need each other — especially now, when the world feels so heavy, and so much of our attention gets pulled into screens, headlines, and worry. This weekend’s Halloween gathering at the studio brought that truth right back to the surface. Nothing dramatic happened. No grand experience. Just familiar faces returning, a few wonderful new ones joining in, kids instantly connecting the way kids always do, and adults slowly letting their shoulders drop as they eased into the afternoon. It reminded me how deeply we crave spaces where we can simply be  — without pressure, without performance — and remember ourselves in the presence of others. Quiet support is powerful like that. Sometimes the brightest moments are soft. Sometimes light arrives in laughter over paint smudges, in silly costumes, in a child proudly showing you their artwork, in parents chatting like they finally have a minute to breathe. And in those small, human moments, you feel it: the world softens, just a little. We need that. More than ever. We need places where the noise falls away and we feel safe enough to create, connect, and exhale. Where we can return to our own inner voice while feeling held by a community that understands the value of slowing down and making something with our hands. That's the heart of this space. It has always been. And whether it’s through our weekly adult sessions, family gatherings, or our quiet, soulful painting classes here in Brookline — it’s the same purpose: to create a gentle landing place in a busy world. A space to find each other. And in doing so… find ourselves again. More of this. Always.Little lights, in ordinary moments, reminding us of who we are. If you're new here… Our studio offers small-group, heart-centered creative experiences — from drop-in community events to painting classes in Boston, reflective adult art workshops, and gentle creativity retreats. If you’ve been looking for a place where art isn’t competitive, where connection matters as much as technique, and where you can simply show up and breathe… You belong here.

Life has a way of pulling us in a thousand directions at once. Notifications, deadlines, chatter — even as someone who teaches serenity and the art of slowing down, I found myself caught in the rush. Today was the first time in what feels like forever that I actually stopped. I sat down amidst my favorite fall foliage in New England, a landscape so breathtaking it almost hurts, and allowed myself to dissolve into it through plein-air painting — one of my favorite practices for reconnecting with stillness and self. And yet, even there, stillness wasn’t easy. Dogs barked, babies cried, and my mind kept searching for the next distraction. It felt impossible to truly relax. But here’s what struck me: despite all that, I stayed. I stayed seated. I stayed with the noise. I painted through the interruptions. And that, in itself, felt monumental. It’s astonishing how hard it is to pause — even at a literal stop sign — when our phones light up every few seconds. But the act of pausing, of claiming a few moments just to notice how beautiful the world is, can shift everything. So, if you’re reading this, consider this a gentle invitation: force stillness into your schedule. Push yourself to witness the quiet transformations around you — the falling leaves, the softened light, the air thick with change. This change of seasons is bigger than our to-do lists, bigger than the daily hustle. It’s a reminder of what truly matters — of the cycles that keep us grounded, humble, and whole. To those I haven’t seen in a while, and to the new faces finding this space — hello. Today’s reflection comes to you from a small, shimmering pond in Cambridge, where I finished a quick half-hour plein-air piece. Just enough time to remember what it means to breathe, to observe, and to return to my priorities. If you’re craving a creative reset or longing to explore mindfulness through art, I invite you to join one of our upcoming art classes in Brookline at Diana Stelin Gallery. Let painting outdoors remind you that serenity is something we can all practice — one brushstroke, one breath, one season at a time.