A hands-on joy mission where we create collaborative public art — one paper strip at a time.
🖌 Step 1: Gather & Create – We meet up, go over the theme for the month, and craft our project together.
🚀 Step 2: Install the Joy – We transform our work into an interactive art installation for the community.
💬 Step 3: Reflect & Connect – Share what we made, feel more connected, and leave a little lighter and brighter.
📅 When: Friday, August 16th
📍 Where: Art With A Heart – 1104 W 36th St, Baltimore, MD 21211
🕔 Time: 5:00–7:00 PM (during their festive Shop & Bop art sale!)
💵 Cost: $8 (includes all materials + resources)
🎉 This month’s theme:
Paper Chain Garlands – Take One If You Need It, Add One If You Want To
Paper chains are simple, nostalgic, and wildly effective — one colorful strip at a time, they grow into something joyful and alive with meaning.
At this month’s Operation Merriment, we’re turning that humble classroom craft into a public art installation of connection.
Each link can be a handwritten note, doodle, affirmation, dream, joke, or confession — whatever you want to contribute.
The final chain will live at Art With A Heart’s storefront, inviting the public to take a piece when they need a boost… or add their own when they feel inspired. 🧵
🧰 All materials provided — paper strips, markers, decorative tape, glue dots, and more
🎁 Everyone a punch on their Operation Merriment VIP card
🛍️ Support Art With A Heart’s youth program by shopping their amazing student-made art during the open house!
💛 Air-conditioned space, joyful vibes, and no art skills required
🎨 Why this one’s extra special:
We’re partnering with Art With A Heart, a beloved Baltimore nonprofit that’s been making art accessible and empowering for over 20 years.
They bring visual arts education to schools, shelters, senior centers, and more — and during our event, they’ll be hosting their annual Shop & Bop open house, featuring incredible artwork made by youth in their HeARTworks job training program.
That means:
🛍️ You can browse and buy beautiful handmade art
🎶 Enjoy festive vibes with music and community
🎁 Support a mission that uses creativity to build equity, confidence, and opportunity
So while you’re making your paper chain, you’ll also be surrounded by local inspiration, talent, and purpose — the perfect atmosphere for joy-based connection.
This mission is perfect for:
💬 Folks who love nostalgic crafts
🧩 Community-minded joy spreaders
🎨 Anyone craving creative connection in a beautiful space
Let’s make something meaningful — together.
🔗 More info + registration: uncustomary.org/OPM
Also check out other Arts events in Baltimore, Workshops in Baltimore, Meetups in Baltimore.
