Pause and Paint: Black History Month Workshop
Morgan Stanly
Project Overview
As part of Morgan Stanley's Black History Month programming, Ground Zero Studio facilitated an interactive Pause & Paint experience designed to encourage creativity, reflection, and employee engagement through art.
The workshop provided employees with an opportunity to step away from their daily responsibilities and participate in a guided painting experience centered around themes of culture, creativity, and community. Through original artwork, hands-on instruction, and a welcoming environment, participants explored the creative process while connecting with colleagues in a meaningful way.
The Challenge
Morgan Stanley sought an engaging activity that would support its Black History Month programming while providing employees with an opportunity to pause, recharge, and participate in a shared creative experience.
The event needed to be accessible to participants regardless of artistic background while creating an environment that encouraged connection, self-expression, and engagement.
Discovery and Creative Development
The opportunity originated through an existing professional relationship and a request to facilitate a Black History Month painting workshop for employees.
Ground Zero Studio worked with event organizers to understand the goals of the program and develop an experience that aligned with the organization's employee engagement initiatives.
An original illustration was created specifically for the workshop, providing participants with a meaningful painting subject inspired by Black History Month themes while remaining approachable for artists of all skill levels.
The artwork was intentionally designed to encourage creativity while ensuring participants could successfully complete their paintings within the workshop timeframe.
Workshop Experience
Ground Zero Studio provided a full-service workshop experience, supplying all materials required for participation, including canvases, easels, paints, aprons, palettes, water cups, brushes, and other studio supplies.
During the session, participants were guided step-by-step through the painting process while receiving individual support, encouragement, and instruction throughout the experience.
The workshop created an environment where employees could relax, explore their creativity, and enjoy a shared activity outside of their typical workday responsibilities.
Impact
The Pause & Paint experience transformed a traditional workplace gathering into an opportunity for creative expression, wellness, and community building.
By combining art education with employee engagement, the workshop encouraged participants to slow down, connect with one another, and experience the calming and restorative benefits of the creative process.
The event demonstrated how art can serve as a tool for reflection, connection, and well-being while supporting broader organizational goals related to culture, engagement, and employee experience.
