I recently hosted an art party at Bad Dog Arts to celebrate my birthday in a way that felt true to how I work and live creatively. Rather than a traditional event, we gathered around a shared art activity that encouraged slowing down, making things by hand, and spending time together.

The party featured a Valentine’s Day themed embroidery project that was simple, welcoming, and open-ended. Guests worked with embroidery hoops to create heart designs, chatting and laughing as they stitched. The atmosphere was relaxed and joyful, grounded in the kind of creative community that Bad Dog Arts is known for.

Collaborating on the Workshop

I partnered with Victoria Lyons, co-founder of Bad Dog Arts, to develop the embroidery curriculum for the event. Together, we planned a Valentine’s Day themed project that felt festive while remaining accessible to beginners. The focus was on basic embroidery techniques, approachable materials, and plenty of room for personal expression.

Victoria led the instruction during the workshop, guiding participants through the process in an encouraging way. My role centered on collaboration, planning, and supporting the overall experience. This kind of teamwork reflects how I prefer to work professionally by building strong ideas with others and trusting shared leadership.

Creating curriculum like this mirrors my work as an artist, author, and marketing professional. It requires thinking about audience experience, clarity, and engagement without over-explaining or over-directing.

Holding Space for Creativity

What made the event special was the feeling in the room. People were not focused on getting things perfect. They were focused on enjoying the process and each other. The embroidery project gave everyone something to do with their hands while conversation flowed naturally.

These are the kinds of experiences I value designing and supporting. Creative spaces do not need to be rigid or formal to be meaningful. Often, the most impactful moments happen when people feel comfortable enough to experiment, ask questions, or simply sit and make something together.

Meaningful Moments

This art party carries deep personal significance for me. It was the last time I spent in the classroom with Michael Moonbird, co-founder of Bad Dog Arts, who has since passed away. I am grateful that our final shared experience was centered on creativity, community, and celebration.

Michael was a major influence in my life. His approach to entrepreneurship, his sense of humor, and his commitment to bringing joy through the arts shaped how I think about creative work and leadership. He believed art should be welcoming and human, and he lived that belief fully.

Having the chance to create and laugh together is something I hold close.

Entrepreneurship and the Arts

My time at Bad Dog Arts, under the mentorship of Michael Moonbird and Victoria Lyons, taught me how creative entrepreneurship works in practice. I learned how values, programming, marketing, and community relationships connect to sustain an organization.

Those lessons directly informed my decision to open Painted Rose Art Gallery and Sugar Space Play Cafe. Both businesses are rooted in the same principles I learned at Bad Dog Arts: accessibility, warmth, and thoughtful design. This foundation continues to shape how I approach business ownership and creative leadership.

Continuing the Work

I now serve on the Board of Directors for Bad Dog Arts, contributing my experience in marketing, storytelling, and creative strategy. Supporting the organization at a leadership level feels like a natural continuation of the time and care that shaped my career.

Celebrating a milestone birthday at Bad Dog Arts was a great way to reflect on the ways my personal and professional life intersect. This community has truly shaped my approach to collaboration, shared creativity, and honoring the people who have influenced my path.

You can honor Michael Moonbird’s legacy by donating to Bad Dog Arts.

xoxo,

Michaela Rae