MUNCIE, Ind. — Creativity isn’t just about making something beautiful—it’s a way of connecting with our inner selves, expressing emotions, and discovering new talents. For Kylie Jiminez, the instructor of Cornerstone’s recent stained glass honeycomb workshop, it’s much more than an art form.

“Creativity is a way for me to focus, like my inner self, my inner thought, my inner turmoil, happiness—whatever it may be—and putting it into something that is ‘pretty,’” Jiminez said.

Held over two days, September 11th and 18th, the workshop offered participants a hands-on introduction to stained glass techniques, from cutting glass to forming intricate honeycomb patterns. Attendees walked away not only with their finished pieces, but also with new skills and a sense of accomplishment. One participant noted that while she never felt particularly artistic as a child, classes like this helped her discover a new side of herself.

Jiminez, who began teaching stained glass in 2019 after certain issues led her to leave her job at her daughter’s daycare, brings a unique perspective to her workshops.

 “I hope they walk away with new skills on stained glass, giving them advice that I never got taught when I needed it,” said Jimenez. 

Her background as both a teacher and mother of two daughters, aged 5 and 11, has influenced her teaching style, which she likens to the patience and nurturing required in early childhood education.

According to Stephanie Michaels, Cornerstone’s new programs director, the classes are designed to be welcoming and accessible to everyone. You don’t have to be a master to join. You can come in, just learn, and have fun without being judged, she explained.

As participants left with their colorful honeycomb creations, they carried more than just art—they left with a deeper connection to their creativity and the satisfaction of learning something new.

Contact Demar Robinson with comments at Demarcus.robinson@bsu.edu

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