Connect with Buffs if you like creativity, arts and crafts | Division of Student Affairs

Do you have what it takes to be the next Picasso? Maybe you’ve been a do-it-yourself (DIY) guru for some time. Or maybe you’re more into poetry? Perhaps you want to get into a creative space but don’t know how? No matter your experience, there are ways you can learn to let your creativity shine. From painting classes to DIY nights, there are many ways for you to connect with others if you love being creative. 

Discover campus programs

There are programs and opportunities on campus available for you to get crafty, show off your skills and meet new people. Here are some places to get started.

UMC Student Arts Program: If you’d like to give your artwork more visibility, the Student Arts Program is for you! The program looks to highlight and display a wide variety of original artwork created by CU Boulder students. Selected artwork is featured throughout the building for students, staff, faculty and visitors to see. Deadline to submit artwork for this year is Jan. 20. Prize money is available for the highest ranking artwork.

Visual Arts Complex: The Visual Arts Complex houses the CU Art Museum and the Department of Art and Art History. This is a great space if you want to find inspiration from the museum galleries or the collection of over 8,500 objects. The complex has studios, community workshop spaces and an auditorium that become a cultural gateway for all CU Boulder students and the community. 

DIY Nights: DIY Nights give you the chance to chat with fellow Buffs while bringing out your creative side in a variety of craft projects. It’s a great time to relax and learn a new skill. From making your own greeting cards, jewelry and even a desk lamp, there’s always something new to learn. 

BuffConnect: BuffConnect is CU’s student club portal. With over 500 student organizations, there is something for everyone. You can look for organizations by category. Try searching “Art, Music, Performance” or “Social” to find a club that matches your interests. 

Center for Student Involvement (CSI): The CSI office hosts a series of programs and events to provide activities that are fun and undoubtedly a good time. Whether you want to find something fun to do, join an organization or find your community, this is a great resource.

Attend events

There’s no better way to meet people than when you’re having fun and trying something new! Attending events is your chance to meet people that share your interest. Be on the lookout for activities you can be a part of to make the most of your free time!

Try things on your own

If you’d like to explore on your own or with a friend, here are a few suggestions for things you can try to be creative.  

• Get together with a friend to make DIY birthday or holiday gifts. 
• Learn how to knit or crochet your own scarf for the winter season.
• Take a class on Youtube on acrylic or watercolor painting. 
• Google how to make your own candles, bath bombs or other relaxation essentials.
• Grab your camera, pick a place to visit and create a photo collage of your adventures.
• Create your own bookmarks using whatever materials you have available.
• Write a haiku or take an introductory class for creative writing.
• Make handmade items for a cause.
• Apply for a job with the Center for Student Involvement.

For more tips and resources for getting involved, visit the Student Affairs website, check out student events and be sure to follow us on social media @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter!