The Art of Pause Overview

The Art of Pause at the Orlando Museum of Art is a welcoming series for adults who want to experience art more intentionally. Participants don’t move quickly through the galleries. Instead, each session focuses on a single work of art, chosen from the permanent collection or a current exhibition. The session is guided by the principles of mindfulness, with time for slow looking, thoughtful discussion, drawing, and personal journaling. It is an opportunity to slow down, notice more, and build a deeper connection with both the artwork and yourself. No artistic experience is necessary, only curiosity and a willingness to pause.

Who It’s For:

• Adults interested in mindfulness, creativity, and meaningful museum experiences
• Anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of art through close observation
• Community members seeking a calm, reflective, and welcoming environment
• Beginners and experienced art lovers alike, with no drawing skills required

What Happens During a Typical Session:

Each one-hour session begins in the galleries with guided slow looking of a single artwork. Participants are invited to observe carefully, reflect, and share what they notice. The group then transitions into quiet drawing and journaling inspired by the artwork and the experience. The focus is on observation, personal reflection, and mindful engagement, not artistic skill. Each session features a different work, so every visit offers something new to discover.

What’s Included:

• Facilitated slow looking experience in the galleries
• Guided drawing and reflective journaling activities
• A notebook for sketching and journaling (participants are also welcome to bring their own)

Accessibility & Accommodations: For questions about accessibility accommodations or specific needs, please contact our education department at 407.896.4231 ext. 262 or education@omart.org before your visit.