Smith-Gilbert Gardens is inviting Kennesaw residents to turn the colors and textures of fall into something they can make with their own hands.

The garden's Making Art in the Gardens: Autumn Textures workshop takes place Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at 2382 Pine Mountain Road in Kennesaw.

Instead of simply admiring autumn leaves, participants will use natural shapes and recycled materials as inspiration for original designs.

The two-hour program offers a creative midweek outing for people who enjoy gardens, crafts or learning a new technique.

What participants will create

Autumn Textures focuses on the distinctive surfaces and patterns found in local foliage, from leaf veins to the outlines that make each plant recognizable.

Attendees will explore the history of ancient Pre-Columbian stamps and draw on that tradition to create contemporary artwork.

The combination of nature observation and hands-on design gives the class a different feel from a typical painting session.

Rather than asking participants to reproduce a finished picture, the workshop encourages them to notice details outdoors and translate those details into personal designs.

Recycled materials are part of the creative process, showing how everyday objects can become useful artmaking tools.

Beginners are welcome

The garden says all materials are included, so participants do not need to arrive with a collection of specialty supplies.

No previous art experience is required, making the program approachable for someone trying a workshop for the first time.

That is part of its appeal: a person can come for the garden setting, enjoy learning a technique and leave with a fresh perspective on ordinary autumn leaves.

The organizers describe the session as two hours of discovery, color and nature-inspired exploration.

Because the class is scheduled during the morning, it may also suit residents looking for a creative activity before lunch.

Why the setting matters

Located on Pine Mountain Road, Smith-Gilbert Gardens is known for plant collections and seasonal displays that change throughout the year.

The workshop uses that environment as more than a backdrop, drawing attention to the natural patterns visible in the garden during autumn.

Leaves are often treated as decorations or yard debris, but their structures can provide surprising ideas for texture, repetition and composition.

The result is an activity that connects time outdoors with the satisfaction of making something original.

Participants can expect a learning experience rather than a formal exhibition, with the emphasis on experimenting and enjoying the process.

Registration and practical details

The workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, from 10 a.m. to noon at Smith-Gilbert Gardens, 2382 Pine Mountain Road, Kennesaw, GA 30152.

Registration is required, so anyone interested should reserve a place before heading to the gardens.

The event listing does not specify a workshop fee in its public description; check the registration page for current pricing and remaining spaces.

For questions about access or event arrangements, the gardens can be reached at 770-919-0248.

Visitors should also review the event listing before traveling in case any details change.

Whether you are a practiced maker or simply curious about trying something different, Autumn Textures offers a relaxed way to see Kennesaw's fall landscape through an artist's eyes.