Free Arts Program Brings Painting, Clay and Creativity to Hill Avenue Library

Armory Center partnership offers free eight-week creative learning series for elementary-age children
Published on Jan 18, 2026

[photo credit: Pasadena Public Library]

Pasadena’s Hill Avenue Branch Library launches a free children’s arts program Tuesday featuring painting, clay work, and creative exploration through a partnership with Armory Center for the Arts.

“Fun with Mixed Media with Armory Center for the Arts” continues at 4 p.m. Tuesday, January 20, through March 10. The program welcomes children ages six to 12 to “have fun exploring familiar and new art materials. Discover different ways to paint, draw, and work with clay. Share your ideas while you learn about the world of art!”

Space is limited and advance registration is required through the Pasadena Public Library’s event calendar or by calling Hill Avenue Branch at (626) 744-7264.

Hill Avenue Branch, Pasadena’s oldest library building since 1925, is located across from Pasadena City College and offers an Asian-language collection reflecting its diverse community.

The Armory Center for the Arts, opening in 1989 in a historic 1932 California National Guard Armory building, operates as both museum and art school. The nonprofit’s mission focuses on nurturing community through art to advance equity and social justice. More than 80 percent of its programming serves socioeconomically disadvantaged youth and families, with more than 6,500 annual participants through community programs.

Pasadena Public Library earned recognition as a Top Innovator by the Urban Libraries Council. Operating under Director Tim McDonald with a $16.78 million budget, the library system serves the Pasadena community.

Fun with Mixed Media with Armory Center for the Arts will run on Tuesday, January 20 at 4 p.m. Hill Avenue Branch Library, 55 South Hill Avenue, Pasadena. For more information, call (626) 744-7264 or visit https://www.cityofpasadena.net/library/?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D193749285.