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- Founder Story
Discover how artist, educator, and TEDx speaker Diana Stelin transformed a personal search for belonging into a mission to help children, adults, and organizations build confidence, resilience, and connection through creativity. / Founder Story / Diana Stelin: Why Creativity? From Moldova to Cornell I was thirteen when we left Moldova. I didn't speak the language yet, and kids at school had a way of letting me know I didn't belong—the usual cruelty reserved for the new girl. I found a dilapidated factory building in Newark that had been converted into artist studios, and I went there to disappear. It wasn't ambition. It wasn't a career plan. It was simply the one place where nobody needed me to explain myself. That's the thing I've been trying to build ever since. A third space. Not home. Not school. A place where people can be unfinished out loud. Years later, at Cornell, I studied painting and became fascinated not only by art, but by the way creativity changes how we pay attention. We spent hours drawing from observation, yet I found myself increasingly drawn to the landscapes around us—the gorges, waterfalls, and changing seasons that seemed to hold stories of their own. A semester in Rome deepened that curiosity. Learning the ancient encaustic painting technique and walking through a city layered with centuries of history taught me that places, like people, reveal themselves slowly if we're willing to look closely. Building the Academy After my second child was born, I went searching for an art program for my oldest son. What I found were plenty of crafts and activities, but very little that treated art, history, culture, and creativity as something meaningful and transformative. So I built the program I wished existed. What started as a small teaching studio grew into the Plein-Air Art Academy, later a gallery, a community, and eventually a body of work that has taken me from local exhibitions to the Venice Biennale. Why It Works for Kids and Executives Alike Along the way, I discovered something unexpected: the same transformation I witnessed in children happened in adults. A child struggling to draw a rose learns patience, observation, and resilience. An executive who hasn't made anything with their hands in fifteen years experiences something remarkably similar. Different ages. Same process. That realization led me to explore the neuroscience of creativity and eventually to develop the ideas behind my TEDx talk, Creativity as an Antidote to Burnout. The research gave language to something I had already witnessed thousands of times: when people create, they become more present. More curious. More willing to take risks. More connected to themselves and to one another. Today, that belief shapes everything we do. The gallery showcases artists whose work invites reflection and connection. The academy helps children build confidence through creativity. Our workshops help teams navigate change with greater adaptability and imagination. They may look like different businesses from the outside, but to me they are all expressions of the same idea. I don't believe art is a luxury or a nice extra. I believe creativity is one of the few places left where a person—whether eight years old or fifty—gets to try something difficult, make mistakes safely, and discover something new about themselves in the process. That's the whole project. Everything else is simply the form it takes. What I believe: Creativity is a life skill, not a talent. Confidence grows through practice, not praise. Mastery requires discomfort. Community accelerates growth. The future belongs to adaptable thinkers. Explore the Work: Gallery Commissions TedXTalk Plein-Air Art Academy Corporate Workshops
- Gallery Event Venue in Brookline, MA for Corporate Events, Workshops & Private Celebrations
Diana Stelin Gallery is a contemporary art venue serving Brookline and Greater Boston. Host networking events, leadership gatherings, corporate retreats, wellness workshops, fundraisers, book launches, and private parties in an inspiring creative environment. Rent the space for your creative needs A unique gallery in Coolidge Corner, Brookline Host your event somewhere people will actually remember. Located in the heart of Coolidge Corner, Diana Stelin Gallery combines the atmosphere of a contemporary art gallery with the flexibility of a private event venue. From networking mixers and client events to milestone celebrations and wellness experiences, the space offers a creative alternative to restaurants, hotel meeting rooms, and generic event venues. Book Recent Reviews: We've hosted more than 100 events including gallery openings, corporate workshops, networking events, wellness retreats, celebrations, and community gatherings. "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 Frequently Asked Questions How many guests can you accommodate? Up to 60 standing, 30 seated. Can I bring my own food and beverages? Yes. Do you provide tables and chairs? Yes. Two standing tables, two banquet tables, limited seating. How far in advance should I book? Most events book 2–8 weeks ahead. How do I reserve the space? Submit an inquiry below and we'll respond within one business day. 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 End of Year Exhibit Sun, Jun 21 Brookline +1 more Details Paint, Petals, and Pours Thu, Jun 04 Brookline Details The Art of Emerging Sat, May 02 Brookline +13 more Details
- Exhibitions | Current & Past Art Shows at the Gallery | Dianastelin
Browse current and past art exhibitions featuring local and international artists. View highlighted collections and upcoming shows. Exhibitions The Art of Emerging Reut Akerman, Paige DeMarino, Christina Goodman, Sasha Knittel April 28th - June 22 As spring awakens, the Diana Stelin Gallery invites you to explore the beauty, fragility, and resilience of our ever changing planet. This vibrant exhibition celebrates bold expression across all media, bringing together diverse voices and radiant visions of rebirth. Shop Artwork Current Exhibit The Art of Emerging April 28th-June 22nd As spring awakens, the Diana Stelin Gallery invites female artists to explore the beauty, fragility, and resilience of our ever changing planet. This vibrant exhibition celebrates bold expression across all media, bringing together diverse voices and radiant visions of rebirth. Featuring works by Reut Akerman, Paige DeMarino, Christina Goodwin, and Sasha Knittel. Join us in welcoming our newest artists and celebrating the spirit of spring on Saturday May 2nd, from 6-8pm. Shop Artwork Upcoming Exhibition Holiday Small Works Show Featuring: Sophia Singer, Eiko Tabata, Sharon Whitham, Erin Starr, Michaela Lyons, Liliana Marquez, and Lisa Goren October 31st-February 2nd Happy to host a Small Works Holidays Show from October 31st 2025 through February 2nd 2026. We are pleased to announce 7 artists in our new roster for this exhibit. As always, we are committed to featuring works by female artists whose practice engages with themes of sustainability and the fragility of our planet. This exhibition will highlight a range of artistic media, including painting, printmaking, photography, and mixed media. We aim to bring together different voices united together by a shared commitment to exploring the delicate balance, care, and responsibility required to sustain our environment. ENCYCLOPEDIA OF IMAGINARY TRAVELS by Marina Korenfeld March 12th - April 18th “Though I consider myself primarily a Symbolist, my art draws on a wide variety of mythologies, worldviews, religions, and literary traditions, both ancient and modern, ranging from Buddhism to Eastern-European folklore. Marina Korendeld is an artist print maker specializing in etchings. The theme of self-introspection is crucial to her art, since she believes that only by delving into the enigmas of the self can an individual truly engage with the world and bring about change in a profound, meaningful way. Shop Artwork Past Exhibitions Blossoming Narratives: Abstract Florals Meet Figurative Forms by Amalia Tagaris September 23rd-October 30th Amalia returns with a new body of work where collages of acrylic and vintage posters meet her signature figurative play. These pieces pulse with texture, history, and bloom, offering fresh depth alongside a selection of her well-loved encaustics. Join us for the opening Thursday, September 25 to wander through her world of layered stories. Shop Artwork Holiday Small Works Show Featuring: Sophia Singer, Eiko Tabata, Sharon Whitham, Erin Starr, Michaela Lyons, Liliana Marquez, and Lisa Goren October 31st-February 2nd Happy to host a Small Works Holidays Show from October 31st 2025 through February 2nd 2026. We are pleased to announce 7 artists in our new roster for this exhibit. As always, we are committed to featuring works by female artists whose practice engages with themes of sustainability and the fragility of our planet. This exhibition will highlight a range of artistic media, including painting, printmaking, photography, and mixed media. We aim to bring together different voices united together by a shared commitment to exploring the delicate balance, care, and responsibility required to sustain our environment. ENCYCLOPEDIA OF IMAGINARY TRAVELS by Marina Korenfeld March 12th - April 18th “Though I consider myself primarily a Symbolist, my art draws on a wide variety of mythologies, worldviews, religions, and literary traditions, both ancient and modern, ranging from Buddhism to Eastern-European folklore. Marina Korendeld is an artist print maker specializing in etchings. The theme of self-introspection is crucial to her art, since she believes that only by delving into the enigmas of the self can an individual truly engage with the world and bring about change in a profound, meaningful way. Shop Artwork Past Exhibitions Blossoming Narratives: Abstract Florals Meet Figurative Forms by Amalia Tagaris September 23rd-October 30th Amalia returns with a new body of work where collages of acrylic and vintage posters meet her signature figurative play. These pieces pulse with texture, history, and bloom, offering fresh depth alongside a selection of her well-loved encaustics. Join us for the opening Thursday, September 25 to wander through her world of layered stories. Shop Artwork First Friday Open-Door Events Friday evenings are marked with an event in the space from 5-7pm with light refreshments, unless we are opening a new show. Monthly Speaker Series In keeping with the community-oriented culture within Coolidge Corner, the gallery frequently hosts open-door events. On Friday nights, members of the community and passersby are encouraged to come engage with the current exhibiting artist. Sign up for the mailing list! Recurring Events Mythical Dreams by Marina Korenfeld May 15 - June 30 “The theme of self-introspection is crucial to my art, since I believe that only by delving into the enigmas of the self can an individual truly engage with the world and bring about change in a profound, meaningful way.” Marina Korenfeld's fantastical and surreal etchings plunge the viewer into a dreamworld filled with creatures and wonder. Shop Artwork Winter Getaway by CJ Lori January 10th - March 10th "The desire to have another see through my eyes is a compelling motivation". C. J. Lori is an oil painter living in Brookline, Massachusetts. Her work reflects her interest in literature, anthropology and psychology, as well as an abiding fascination with the natural world. Often called “Neo-surrealism” or “magic realism,” Ms. Lori’s paintings explore the complex relationship between humanity and the environment. She exaggerates or distorts color, form and composition to emphasize sensations that are often contradictory: clarity and mystery, excitement and sorrow, beauty and decay. Shop Artwork Seascapes in Encaustic by Amalia Tagaris October 15 - November 22 “The unexpected often leads to extraordinary results” With deep New England roots and European traditions, Amalia Tagaris works reflects a unique perspective shaped by both worlds. She first encountered encaustic in 2009, blending beeswax, damar resin, and colored pigments with her photograph to create works that are luminous and rich in texture. Over time, her practice evolved to incoportateoil paints, inks, carbon prints and wide range of mixed media Shop Artwork Un bel dí vedremo by Jennifer Jean Okumara Ebruary 16th - April 1st “Nothing is permanent except change” Jennifer Jean Okumura presents her new paintings in an exhibition highlighting how change brings perspective, clarity, and true unconditional love like the Sun. We live in an ocean of energy in constant motion, and our life, 'everything' around us is temporary. Shop Artwork Venice Fragile Beauty by Diana Stelin January 15th - february 16th “ExamineVenice's delicate balance” Karen Lee Sobol explores the influx of marine life during COVID's cruise ship hiatus. A city's charm, fading and evolving. Diana Stelin laments its decay, akin to a mistreated Disney world, revealing peeling walls and alarming sinking. Shop Artwork Venice Fragile Beauty by Diana Stelin January 15th - february 16th “ExamineVenice's delicate balance” Karen Lee Sobol explores the influx of marine life during COVID's cruise ship hiatus. A city's charm, fading and evolving. Diana Stelin laments its decay, akin to a mistreated Disney world, revealing peeling walls and alarming sinking. Shop Artwork Venice and its Fragility by Diana Stelin september 1st - october 15th “To what extent can we dissolve into our surroundings and co-exist with the natural world?” Diana Stelin's technique dances between realistic and abstract landscapes. Utilizing oil paint, wax, and gold leaf, she creates a uniquely three-dimensional and sculptural aspect to her canvases. Through them, you are pulled into a colorfully charged world that welcomes contemplation and exploration. Shop Artwork Delicate Relevations by Linda Perlman APRIL 1st - MAY 14th “The play of light is always a catalyst for my portraits, landscapes, and still lifes and I am engaged by the enigmatic, lyrical, profound, and magical I find lurking below these surfaces” Linda Pearlman Karlsberg presents her recent paintings in a new exhibition highlighting the beauty of our world throughout the year. Shop Artwork Blossoming with Daphne: a Springtime Journey by Diana Stelin March 16th - April 20th The myth of Daphne has always fascinated Diana as it speaks to our innate desire to dissolve into the world, to become a voyeur, to be part of something much larger than us. This series focuses on highlighting Daphne's myth and the modern translation of her transformation. Shop Artwork
- Diana Stelin | Art Gallery, Creative Hub, Art Classes & Corporate Workshops in Brookline
Diana Stelin is an artist, TEDx speaker, and founder of a neuroscience-informed creative hub in Brookline. Through award-winning art classes, summer camps, corporate workshops, retreats, and a contemporary gallery, we help children, adults, and organizations build confidence, creativity, resilience, and connection. Creativity as an Antidote to Burnout: Through art, education, exhibitions, and immersive experiences, we help people reconnect with curiosity, confidence, and one another. Choose Your Path: Learn, Collect, Bring Creativity to Your Team, or Visit the Gallery 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." Book a Class 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 Collector "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 Our Manifesto We believe: Creativity is not reserved for artists. Confidence grows through practice. Meaning emerges through making. Community fuels growth. Art helps us navigate change. Our curriculum is built on nervous-system regulation research — validated in Diana's TEDx talks — so kids and adults don't just make art, they leave calmer and more confident than when they walked in. Explore Programs About Us When Diana Stelin immigrated to the United States at thirteen, art became the first place where she felt she belonged. Decades later, she is still building versions of that space for others. What began as a professional art practice has grown into a creative ecosystem: an award-winning art academy, contemporary gallery, retreats, exhibitions, and corporate workshops. After teaching thousands of students over two decades, Diana saw that creativity was doing more than helping people make art. It was helping children build confidence, adults reconnect with themselves, and teams navigate change. That discovery shaped her TEDx talk, Creativity as an Antidote to Burnout, and continues to guide everything we do. We believe creativity is not a luxury. It is an essential life skill that helps people find mastery, meaning, and community. Read Diana's Story A Creative Ecosystem Trusted by: Thousands of students taught since 2010 Proud Partner of Park School, Shady Hill, Brimmer & May, Fessenden Google AstraZeneca State Street Deloitte Ropes & Gray Brigham & Women's Hospital TEDx Speaker Best of Boston® Winner Venice Biennale Satellite Exhibition School Partnerships Corporate Workshops Read Our Blog
- Contemporary Art, Exhibitions & Commissions
Explore contemporary artists whose work explores beauty, memory, place, and connection. Visit exhibitions, discover original artwork, and commission custom pieces. Diana Stelin Gallery We represent artists who find meaning in place, memory, and the natural world, creating work that invites viewers to slow down, look closer, and reconnect. Diana Stelin Gallery believes art can help us reconnect—with beauty, with nature, with memory, and with one another. Located in Brookline, Massachusetts, the gallery presents contemporary artists whose work invites reflection, curiosity, and conversation. Through exhibitions, commissions, artist talks, and creative experiences, we create opportunities for meaningful encounters with art. Whether you're an experienced collector or stepping into a gallery for the first time, you'll find a welcoming space where creativity and community thrive. See Events and Exhibitions See Our Press Kit New to Collecting? Whether you're purchasing your first original artwork or expanding an established collection, we're happy to help you: Select artwork for a specific space Understand scale and framing Explore commissioned artwork Build a collection over time Discover artists aligned with your interests Learn about Artists A Creative Ecosystem Diana Stelin Gallery is more than a traditional gallery. By bringing together artists, collectors, students, families, educators, and corporate teams under one roof, we create a vibrant creative ecosystem where art is experienced, discussed, and shared across generations and backgrounds. Our gallery, classrooms, workshops, artist talks, exhibitions, and special events create opportunities for meaningful connection and ongoing engagement with the arts. This unique model expands visibility for our artists while fostering a community that values creativity, lifelong learning, and cultural exchange. Corporate Installs
- Our Programs | Art Classes, Workshops & Creative Courses | Dianastelin
Explore a wide range of art programs including adult classes, kids’ workshops, private lessons, and seasonal creative experiences. Our Programs Book Online Birthday Parties School Partnerships The Plein-Air Art Academy Mastery. Meaning. Community Award-winning programs for children, adults, and organizations seeking more connection, confidence, and creative thinking. Through art history, mixed media exploration, and guided reflection, students develop technical skills alongside confidence, perseverance, and self-expression. Our Signature Curriculum for Kids Helping children build confidence through creativity. Parents don't enroll for art. They enroll because they want children who are: confident resilient creative problem-solvers comfortable expressing themselves Our award-winning art program helps children develop mastery, meaning, and community through creativity. Each semester, students explore a rich art history theme while working with a wide range of materials, including watercolor, clay, collage, drawing, painting, and mixed media. Guided by practicing artists, students build technical skills while developing confidence, creative problem-solving abilities, and their unique artistic voice. Unlike template-based art projects, our curriculum encourages both skill development and self-expression. Students learn how artists throughout history have responded to the world around them, then use those ideas as inspiration for creating work that is distinctly their own. Our youngest artists begin each class with engaging stories from art history and culture, building a foundation of knowledge and curiosity. Through hands-on exploration of varied materials, they strengthen focus, imagination, and perseverance while discovering the joy of making art. As students grow, projects become more ambitious and individualized. We honor each child's pace and encourage thoughtful observation, attention to detail, and the satisfaction of bringing meaningful work to completion. Along the way, students learn not only artistic techniques but also resilience, self-expression, and confidence in their ideas. Every semester culminates in a visit to a local art museum, where students experience original works firsthand and deepen their connection to the broader artistic community. At Diana Stelin Gallery & Creative Studio, art education is about more than learning techniques. It is about helping young people become confident, capable, and self-expressed through meaningful creative experiences. Book Your Class Summer Camp Our Signature Curriculum for Adults More than an art class, this is a creative practice. Each semester, we explore a different artist, movement, or cultural theme while working with drawing, charcoal, pastel, watercolor, oil painting, and clay. Students develop technical skills and artistic confidence through hands-on projects, art history, and guided exploration. Designed for both beginners and experienced artists, our classes foster mastery, self-expression, and community in a welcoming studio environment. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, reconnect with creativity, or simply make space for yourself each week, you'll leave with stronger artwork and a deeper connection to your creative voice. See Programs Additional Offerings Summer Camps This is our Best of Boston program that explores varied themes in the art world and introduces an array of materials to artists of all levels. Learn More School Partnerships We're happy to partner up with local public and private schools for their after-school programming. Learn More Kids Birthday Party Unique customized birthday parties run on Sundays. Learn More Our Signature Curriculum for Teens Designed for serious young artists, this advanced class helps teens develop both technical mastery and creative confidence. Students progress through drawing, charcoal, pastel, watercolor, and oil painting while building a strong foundation in observation, values, color theory, composition, anatomy, and artistic problem-solving. Guided by practicing professional artists, they learn not only how to create stronger artwork, but also how to develop their own artistic voice. Throughout the semester, students study artists and movements from art history, explore a variety of media, and learn how to make thoughtful creative decisions rather than simply follow instructions. Emphasis is placed on perseverance, risk-taking, self-expression, and bringing ambitious projects to completion. Whether pursuing a portfolio, strengthening artistic skills, or simply seeking a deeper creative challenge, students leave with greater mastery, confidence, and a stronger connection to their unique perspective. See Programs
- Corporate Wellness & Team Building Workshops | Diana Stelin
TEDx speaker Diana Stelin helps organizations strengthen team connection, wellbeing, creativity, and resilience through workshops, offsites, and keynotes. / Our Programs / Corporate Programming / Creativity That Builds Stronger Teams Evidence-based workshops and keynotes that help teams reduce stress, strengthen connection, improve collaboration, and navigate change with greater resilience. Trusted by Google, AstraZeneca, Ropes & Gray, Assurant, Brigham & Women's Hospital, State Street, and other leading organizations. Why Creativity Matters at Work Today's teams are navigating constant change, competing priorities, and increasing levels of stress. Yet the skills that drive success—adaptability, collaboration, communication, and creative problem-solving—are rarely developed through traditional training. Our workshops use creativity as a practical tool to help teams reconnect, think differently, and build resilience. Through engaging, hands-on experiences, participants strengthen observation skills, embrace experimentation, and discover new ways to collaborate and communicate. No artistic experience is required—only curiosity. Trusted By Professional Organizations Organizations including Google, Deloitte, Ropes & Gray, Brigham and Women's Hospital, AstraZeneca, and State Street have partnered with Diana to help teams build creativity, connection, and resilience in times of change. Each workshop combines meaningful hands-on experiences with practical tools that support well-being, collaboration, and innovative thinking. "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! From fall foliage to cherry blossoms to garden landscapes, Diana crafts captivating themes for each class that reflect the New England seasonal inspiration and our groups' interests. With every workshop, Diana engages and instructs our Googler with carefully crafted content, patience, and expertise - her investment in the development of each participant is evident in her ability to always allow time for 1:1 coaching and questions. We receive glowing accolades with requests to host more workshops each time - and we have many repeat participants! I highly recommend that business or individuals work with Diana to host these enriching art workshops." "I have participated in Diana's presentation about 'Art in Your Home' and found it both engaging and helpful in thinking about how to select art for our house as well as how to position it in the best possible way. I would highly recommend her presentation for anyone interested in learning more about art collecting and making their home more unique through art." "Relaxing, recharging, and a fun and unique way to come together and build engagement within the team!" "Enjoyable, experimental (since I've never done any form of guided painting), engaging, and liberating in the sense of just letting go and being present." What Teams Gain Stronger Connection Creative activities create opportunities for meaningful conversations and shared experiences that strengthen relationships across teams. Improved Communication Participants practice observation, listening, feedback, and collaboration in ways that feel natural and engaging. Reduced Stress & Greater Wellbeing Creative engagement helps employees step out of daily demands, recharge mentally, and return with renewed energy and perspective. Creative Confidence Teams learn to embrace experimentation, navigate uncertainty, and approach challenges with greater flexibility. Fresh Thinking By engaging different parts of the brain, participants often discover new approaches to problem-solving and innovation. Every workshop combines hands-on creative activities, reflection, discussion, and collaboration in a welcoming environment where artistic experience is never required. Then: Guided creative exercises Individual and collaborative projects Thought-provoking discussion Reflection and insight A finished piece to take home Workshop & Keynote Options Popular Topics Team Connection & Employee Engagement Creativity & Innovation Wellbeing & Burnout Prevention Change, Resilience & Adaptability Lunch & Learns (45–60 minutes) Introduce teams to practical tools for creativity, resilience, and innovative thinking through an engaging presentation or hands-on experience. Ideal for employee wellbeing initiatives, learning series, and team development programs. Team Workshops (90–120 minutes) Interactive experiences that strengthen communication, foster connection, and encourage creative problem-solving through collaborative challenges and guided reflection. Half-Day & Full-Day Offsites (3–6 hours) Immersive programs that help teams step away from daily demands to reconnect, think strategically, build trust, and develop fresh perspectives through creativity-based experiences. Happy Hours & Client Events (60–120 minutes) Relaxed, memorable experiences that spark conversation, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful connections among colleagues, clients, and partners. Keynotes & Conference Programs (30–90 minutes) Thought-provoking presentations and interactive sessions that explore creativity, resilience, innovation, and navigating change in today's workplace. Participants leave with practical insights they can immediately apply. Meet Diana TEDx speaker. Artist. Educator. Founder. For over 20 years, Diana Stelin has explored the connection between creativity, resilience, and human potential. Through her TEDx talk, Creativity as an Antidote to Burnout, and workshops for organizations including Google, AstraZeneca, Ropes & Gray, and Brigham & Women's Hospital, she helps teams build connection, navigate change, reduce stress, and unlock fresh thinking through creativity. Combining practical insights, engaging facilitation, and hands-on experiences, Diana creates programs that leave participants feeling energized, connected, and inspired. Diana's Story A Creative Environment Designed for Connection Located in the heart of Brookline's Coolidge Corner, our gallery and studio offers a refreshing alternative to conference rooms and hotel meeting spaces. Surrounded by original artwork and natural light, teams can step away from daily routines and engage in meaningful conversations, creative exploration, and collaborative experiences. Accolades Participant in Venice Biennale 2022 Best Art Classes for Kids voted by Boston Magazine Contracted with Google for Creative Art Workshops TedX Speaker, dozens of articles, podcast interviews and features Seth Godin's ExecutiveLeadership Program BFA: Cornell University MS: Boston University "Diana has a unique teaching style - She combines teaching art skills in a manner anyone can quickly acquire, as well as simple relaxation techniques which results in feeling rejuvenated and light after leaving her classroom. I love that this class is not just about learning, but also about gifting yourself some time to kick-back, relax and showing yourself selflove, something very few of us get enough of these days. Diana sets the mood for each class with her soft voice, relaxing background music, art teaching intertwined with her life wisdom, and if you’re lucky you may even get a snippet of one of her famous TED Talks. You will enjoy her class weather you’re a novice, already have the gift of an artist in you, or if you simply need a mental getaway." Regina Paltis Pharma Company Cambridge Diana, it was another unforgettable experience! Thank you for guiding us through the workshop. Thank you for sharing your art journey and leading such a creative and inspiring workshop. I truly enjoyed painting with you and found your flow method both engaging and unique. I love how my flowers came out! Irina Shapiro Cullinan Therapeutics, Cambridge, 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
- Brookline Summer Art Camp | Art History, Outdoor Exploration & Creativity
Award-winning Brookline summer art camp for ages 7–13. Real art history, outdoor exploration, dance, yoga, puppetry, gallery exhibitions, and hands-on creativity in a professional studio. / Our Programs / Summer Camps / Summer Camps Over two decades of teaching, we've learned that creativity does far more than help children make art. Our Brookline summer art camp combines real art history, outdoor exploration, gallery exhibitions, and visiting instructors in dance, yoga, and puppetry. Designed for ages 7–13, it helps children build creativity, confidence, and resilience while creating meaningful artwork. The approach behind the program was developed by founder Diana Stelin, a professional artist and TEDx speaker whose work explores the connection between creativity, confidence, and well-being. Each week, campers step into a different chapter of art history and culture, experimenting with techniques inspired by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Picasso, and contemporary creators from around the world. They might explore charcoal sfumato, Cubist collage, watercolor landscapes, clay sculpture, or mixed-media storytelling while discovering the ideas and cultures that shaped each movement. Our days balance meaningful artmaking with outdoor adventures, creative games, and specialty experiences led by guest teachers in yoga, dance, improv, puppetry, and movement. Along the way, campers build skills, friendships, curiosity, and the confidence to keep going when something doesn't work the first time. The result is a summer filled with creativity, discovery, and joy. *Ages 7-13 **Staff-to-camper ratio is 1:4, max** — groups split by age once a week passes 6 campers, so a 7-year-old isn't pacing against a 13-year-old. Reach out with any questions. About Diana Book 2026 Weeks at a Glance $675/week, $185/day Week Dates: Art Eras Theme What we actually make: 1. Jul 6–10 Prehistoric & Ancient Cave-painting with ink and found sticks, paper mâché vessels, weaving 2. Jul 13–17 Medieval & Renaissance Dürer-style printmaking, illuminated manuscripts in liquid watercolor and gold, charcoal sfumato 3. Jul 27–31 Baroque & Romanticism Rembrandt-style single-light-source egg tempera, Neoclassical clay busts, Pre-Raphaelite plein-air detail 4. Aug 3–7 Realism & Impressionism Cézanne's five greens (outdoors), Van Gogh directional drawing, Monet waterlily collage 5.Aug 17–21 Early Modernism Tie-dye, Cubist newspaper collage in the style of Picasso & Braque, Blue Rider color-block still life 6. Aug 24–28 Modern & Contemporary Keith Haring silhouette cutouts, Warhol-style printmaking, Lichtenstein comic panels in Posca marker. Every week ends Friday with a real gallery-style art show and critique — your child's work displayed and discussed the way working artists discuss theirs, not just sent home in a folder. Book Now On returning I notice it every June — the kids who already know where the paper mâché goo lives, who've outgrown the younger group and ask, half-proud, half-nostalgic, whether they're "old group" now. Some of these families have been coming back for years. Here's what a few of them said, in their own words: "She's been going for 5 years now. I'm so impressed with the mix of art and how much she's learned." "This is my daughter's 3rd year attending the camp... there is always something new — an escape room, learning how to crochet, learning origami." "This week she came every day full of stories and memories... she had her first art crit and got comments on her piece by Diana, counselors, and peers." That last one is the one that gets me every time. An eight-year-old's drawing, treated like it deserves a real critique — because it does. A typical day 9:00–9:30 Welcome & card games 9:30–10:30 Outdoor time 10:45–11:00 Snack 11:00–12:00 Art instruction (younger group) 12:00–12:30 Lunch 12:30–1:45 Art instruction (older group) 2:00–3:00 Collaborative activity — rotating dance, puppet-making, yoga, or improv, led by guest instructors 3:00–4:00 Free drawing time Book Now
- Art Enrichment Programs for Schools
Helping students build creativity, confidence, and cultural literacy through art history, storytelling, and hands-on mixed media experiences. / Our Programs / School Partnerships / School Partnerships Unlock Creativity with Art History, Mixed Media and the Outdoors Inquire Learn More "Diana Stelin's programming is fantastic. She brings an extensive artistic background and experiences as an art educator to her classes and we are lucky to have her return to campus this winter for Anime Art with our Lower Division students." – Caitlin Robinson Park School "I run the after school program at Lincoln School in Brookline where Diana teaches after school classes. Our students have loved being a part of her art classes and have made really creative pieces. Diana teaches the students about famous artists and explores different artistic techniques with them so they are learning about art as they create art. She is a joy to work with for both adults and kids. I highly recommend enrolling your child (or yourself) in one of her classes." Lena Berc Lincoln Public School in Brookline "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. I appreciated the dance classes and time outside as well as the fun art projects and visiting artists. 100% recommend!" Parent Local Guide School Art Programs That Build Creativity, Confidence, and Cultural Literacy Schools partner with us because they want more than a craft activity. Our programs combine art history, storytelling, observation, and hands-on studio practice to help students build confidence, creativity, and cultural literacy. Founded by artist and educator Diana Stelin after a search for a more meaningful art education experience for her own child, the program has evolved into an award-winning curriculum serving schools throughout Greater Boston. Why Schools Choose Us Turnkey programming with all materials provided Curriculum aligned around a cohesive theme Professional artist instructors Flexible onsite or studio-based options Adaptable projects for varying ages and abilities Designed for both public and independent schools Learn More About Diana's Story What a Six-Week Program Looks Like Each week students explore a new story, artist, culture, or historical theme before creating original artwork inspired by what they've learned. Recent themes include: Ancient Egypt Greek Mythology Studio Ghibli Chagall & Matisse Students experiment with watercolor, clay sculpture, printmaking, collage, oil pastel, and mixed media while learning how artists communicate ideas across cultures and time periods. What Students Gain What Students Gain By the end of the session, students can: Explain key concepts from the theme Discuss artists, stories, and cultural influences Demonstrate new artistic techniques Present and discuss their creative decisions Build confidence in self-expression and problem-solving Trusted by Schools Across Greater Boston Flexible Partnership Options After-school enrichment In-school workshops Artist residencies Vacation week programs Field trips to our Brookline gallery Getting Started Tell us about your students, schedule, and goals. We'll recommend a program structure and provide a detailed curriculum outline.
- Custom Art Birthday Parties in Brookline | Creative Celebrations for Kids
Skip the cookie-cutter party venues. Give your child a personalized art experience designed around their interests, imagination, and creativity. / Our Programs / Birthday Parties / Birthday Parties Skip the overstimulating party venues. Our creative birthday parties give children a chance to celebrate, create, and connect. Every guest leaves with artwork they're proud of, and parents love that we handle the creative experience from start to finish. Reach out with any questions. Book Kids Birthday Party Sunday | 2 hr | $45/person "Caring, creative, and thoughtful staff. The party was unique and fun. All the kids had a great time, and my daughter was able to explore art inspired by her favorite animated character. The staff created a truly one-of-a-kind experience." — Magda " Diana, thank you for a great party. So many parents commented on how lovely the space was, and the kids had so much fun. Really appreciate all of the help making this birthday special!" - Amanda A Birthday Party as Unique as Your Child Our fully customized art birthday parties are designed for children ages 5–15 and hosted on Sundays between 12–6 PM. Whether your child dreams of painting dragons, sculpting magical creatures, creating anime-inspired artwork, or exploring their favorite artist, we'll design an experience around their interests. Each celebration begins with the birthday child's vision. Together, we'll choose a theme, select up to two art projects, and incorporate interactive games, scavenger hunts, or creative challenges to keep guests engaged from start to finish. Every child leaves with artwork they're proud of and memories they'll be talking about long after the party ends. Parents love that the experience is both meaningful and easy. We handle all art materials, instruction, setup, and cleanup so you can focus on celebrating. Parties accommodate up to 20 guests, with a minimum booking of 8 participants. Final attendance numbers can be adjusted after the event, making planning simple and stress-free. Popular projects include watercolor painting, clay sculpture, mixed-media creations, oil pastel drawing, canvas painting, and character-inspired artwork. Have another idea? We're happy to customize the experience. Food and decorations are provided by families, and we're always happy to share local recommendations. (Our favorite pizza is Otto's just down the street, and Party Favors makes fantastic cupcakes!) Ready to create a celebration your child will never forget? Reserve your date online or contact us with any questions. Why Parents Choose Us Fully customized themes Professional artist instructors All materials included Small-group attention Kids leave with artwork they love Easy planning for parents Book Now Host an Event People Will Actually Remember Adult birthday parties, gatherings, and celebrations Looking for something more inspiring than a restaurant back room or hotel meeting space? Our gallery and creative hub offers a unique setting for birthdays, anniversaries, client appreciation events, networking gatherings, workshops, retreats, and girls' nights out. Surrounded by rotating exhibitions and natural light, your guests will enjoy an experience that feels both elevated and welcoming. Whether you're planning a cocktail reception, a creative workshop, a strategic planning session, or simply a memorable celebration, the space can be configured to fit your needs. We provide tables, tablecloths, basic serving supplies, and access to our gallery and co-working areas. Host a casual gathering, a working session, or pair your event with one of our guided creative experiences for an even more memorable occasion. Located in the heart of Coolidge Corner, our venue accommodates intimate gatherings while offering a distinctive alternative to traditional event spaces. Book Now
- Events Calendar | Upcoming Gallery Events | Dianastelin
View the latest schedule of gallery events, workshops, exhibitions, and creative gatherings happening throughout the year. Events & Workshops Calendar The bustle of Coolidge Corner lends to a recurring schedule of weekly and monthly events that are open to all. End of Year Exhibit Sun, Jun 21 Brookline More info RSVP Paint, Petals, and Pours Thu, Jun 04 Brookline More info Details The Art of Emerging Sat, May 02 Brookline More info Details See what we have been creating and explore our past events! Aperitivo for Carnevale February 7th, 2026 from 6:00-8:00PM Catch a live band, indulge in Italian food and enjoy a retrospective by Diana Stelin that celebrates Venice! Italian Wine Thru the Eyes of Italian Artists Thursday February 5th, 6:30-8:30pm, for a tour of Italy with wine and art. As you taste wines from northeast Italy side-by-side with the art and the artists of the region. Book Club Let's Talk Books, January 29th, from 6:30-8:30pm! We will be reading "Profit First" by Mike Michalowicz, a national best seller in the business world. The Art & Color Of Wine The Art & Color of Wine, Thursday, January 8th, 6:30-8:30pm! This will be a tasting in six hues along with a class on color theory through watercolor. End of Semester Showcase End of Semester Showcase, Sunday December 14th, 4-6pm! A showcase to celebrate the students hard work through this semester. First Light First Light celebration featuring, Evelyn Berde December 4th, 2025 Opening reception, live music, and food! Stop by the gallery to check it out!
- Diana Stelin | Contemporary Artist & Educator | Brookline MA | DianaStelin
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.



