Mud, Mirrors & Magic

Step into a world of colour, sparkle, and creativity in this hands-on art workshop where young artists transform simple materials into stunning mandala masterpieces!

In this engaging session, participants will explore the beautiful folk technique of Lippan (mud mirror art) while designing their own eye-catching mandalas. Using soft clay, shimmering mirrors, and vibrant “magic colours,” children will learn how traditional patterns come alive through symmetry, texture, and shine.

All sessions will be led by Mansi Jain Chowdhry.

There are two sessions available during the day: 10.30-12.30 and 13.30-15.30.

Please make sure to arrive on time. We allow a 10-minute grace period for late arrivals. After this point, we cannot guarantee admission to the activity.

This workshop is suitable for ages 5-11. Children must be supervised at all times.

Tickets cost £7 per child.

Each child ticket includes free entry for one accompanying adult. This event ticket includes access to the Galleries for one child and one adult.

We recommend booking in advance to secure your place. Sales from tickets help support our work to deliver fun and accessible family activities, community engagement projects, schools’ workshops, exhibitions and special events for Oxford’s people in our Museum spaces.

About the artist

I am a Maths and Business teacher by profession and an artist by heart. While I enjoy the logic of teaching, my true joy lies in exploring colours, textures, and patterns through art. I love working with folk designs from around the world, drawing inspiration from nature and traditional crafts. My pieces often combine earthy elements with vibrant colours and sparkling mirror details to bring each creation to life. I run art workshops purely for the joy of sharing creativity — nothing makes me happier than seeing the light on participants’ faces as they discover the magic they can create. I have also had the pleasure of showcasing my work during Oxford Art Weeks, an experience that deeply inspired me.

Further information

Access

There is step-free, level entry access to the Town Hall via the entrance closest to Carfax Tower (to the left of the main steps as you face the Town Hall). Inside the Museum, Museum Makers is accessible via a platform lift to the Galleries and then a lift to the basement.

Accessible toilets are available in the Museum (close to Museum Makers) and in the Town Hall on the ground floor, before entering the Museum. Please contact the Museum team if you’d like to talk to a member of staff about your access requirements. Further access information can be found on our page dedicated to access at the museum.

Photo consent

Please be aware that photographs will be taken at this event for use in marketing. If you (or a member of your group) would prefer not to be photographed, please let a member of staff know during the event.