Neighbour Night is all about creating opportunities for neighbours to connect, share a meal, try something new and enjoy time together.
Last night, Flora facilitated Neighbour Night for the very first time, leading participants through the Crinkle Technique, a playful and accessible approach to abstract art. She did such a wonderful job, and her passion for creativity, mindfulness and community connection really came through in the evening.
Flora shared the reflection below about the activity, the experience and what makes Neighbour Night such a meaningful space for connection:
Neighbour Night @ Hillhurst Sunnyside
Thursday, August 4 at 5:30 PM
Neighbour Night is a welcoming community gathering open to anyone in the City of Calgary who would like to spend time together, share a light dinner, meet new people, and enjoy a creative activity in a relaxed and friendly setting.
This week, I hosted a session exploring Abstract Art with the Crinkle Technique—a simple, playful, and mindful art process that anyone can enjoy, regardless of artistic experience.
The crinkle or crumple technique begins with a sheet of paper. We gently crinkle the paper to create random lines, shapes, and patterns. Once flattened, these unexpected marks become a guide for developing an abstract artwork.
Participants can explore colour, line, pattern, and composition, filling the shapes with colour and adding their own lines and details. There is no right or wrong way to do it. The random crinkle lines provide a starting point and allow the artwork to develop naturally.
I love this technique because it encourages us to slow down, experiment, and let go of the pressure to create something “perfect.” It is a wonderful way to enjoy the simple pleasure of making art while being present in the moment.
Your finished piece can become part of a creative journal, a mindfulness practice, or even a frame-worthy work of abstract art.
✨ Materials needed:
• Printer paper or better-quality paper
• Coloured pencils, markers, or crayons
• Permanent black marker or ballpoint pen
Art doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Sometimes, a piece of paper, a few colours, and a little curiosity can create something surprisingly beautiful.
Most importantly, Neighbour Night is about connection—sharing food, conversation, creativity, and time together.
💚 The session is FREE, and everyone is welcome! Please register ahead of time at communityconnections@hsca.ca so the community centre knows how much food to prepare.
Come as you are, bring your curiosity, and join us for an evening of community, creativity, and mindful art!
