Finding Creativity Through Curiosity: How Briana Bauman Turns Art Into an Open Invitation to Explore

Briana Bauman’s journey into teaching began with a simple but powerful idea—art should be experienced, not just observed. Inspired by the curiosity of visitors and fellow artists, she created hands-on workshops that make creativity feel accessible to everyone. By blending fluid art, polymer clay, and a supportive, low-pressure environment, Briana helps students embrace both structure and spontaneity. Her classes go beyond technique, encouraging people—especially those who don’t see themselves as “creative”—to discover that creativity isn’t a talent you’re born with, but something you grow by showing up and trying.

Briana, you combine creating art with teaching hands-on classes. What inspired you to start offering workshops alongside your own artistic work?
I like to work with a variety of materials and so I often have people walking into my shop really wanting to know how I created the things that I made so I thought it would be really fun to be able to share that knowledge in a more personal setting than say posting videos amd so they could really get their hands in it. When other artists have come in and we’ve chatted, they’ve often been interested in learning different materials but weren’t really sure how to approach it or were unsure about getting the materials, so I came up with the idea of creating an environment that would fill that need as well.

Your fluid art classes blend creativity with a bit of science. What makes this art form so accessible and exciting for beginners?
There are many ways to approach this form of art and the way that I choose is a little bit more complicated because there is a certain science to the mixing and layering. I really love the results and process! When someone considers their mind to be more logic-based than creative-based, it’s a really great outlet in that if they want to explore creativity, they can do that in a more logical and precise way. Then for the creatives, there is a certain blend of control and unpredictability and just watching the magic happen that so satisfying. I pre-blend all of the paints but also can go through as much of the process as the student wants and bring the supplies for them to mix their own if they choose to. This way it isn’t overwhelming for beginners and the more experienced can dig deeper. It’s an art form where the imperfections shine and you can constantly evolve the way you work with the style. There is just so much you can do with it.

You also teach polymer clay jewelry. How do these different mediums allow students to explore their creativity in unique ways?
Polymer clay is such a very versatile material. You can do anything from painting to stamping, image transfer and sculpting, plus attach all manner of findings to it so you can really pour your imagination into your piece. No two pieces are ever the same. It’s a great way to get a feel for the material before using it in other ways. I try to introduce a different way of looking at the mediums I work with so that the student always walks away with with a fresh perspective.

Your classes are designed as both learning experiences and social events. How do you create an environment where people feel comfortable experimenting and having fun?
I like to keep a variety of supplies on hand and will guide the student but also allow them to make their own choices and not try to keep a really strict format. If they come up with some crazy idea on what they want to create I try and support that with whatever I have on hand. Art is in the eye of the beholder, right, so you can’t really do anything wrong so I try to nurture that. I do what I can to make their vision happen rather than try to fit it into a box. I’ll explain why I’m doing a particular thing but also give them ways they could make it their own and maybe even get a little crazy with it. I have a lot of students who are kids and art is so important for boosting confidence and promoting creativity.

For those who don’t see themselves as “creative,” what do you hope they walk away with after taking one of your classes?
Inspiration and basically that being creative can take on many forms and it’s just about finding the outlet that’s right for you. As Bob Ross said, “Talent is a pursued interest.” And of course I hope they had a fun time!

Link: