

The Aplomb Project
Danielle Festa is the Executive Director of The Aplomb Project, dedicated to supporting trauma survivors through the healing power of art. A conceptual realist artist with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting from UMASS Amherst, she has created narrative-driven work since 2007. Currently navigating her own breast cancer journey, Danielle’s personal experience fuels her passion for art as a tool for healing and transformation. She also owns Aplomb Contemporary Portrait Gallery, curating exhibitions that redefine portraiture and hosting workshops to inspire emerging artists. Danielle has curated shows in Boston, Somerville, Dover, and Virtual Reality, bridging physical and digital art spaces. A member of the New Hampshire Art Association and The Women's Caucus for Art, she previously served as Director of the Dover Art Walk (2017-2020), fostering inclusive arts communities. Through her work, Danielle champions artistic expression and emotional healing.
Business Information
Danielle Festa
15 Mechanic Street, Suite 117
Dover, New Hampshire 03820, United States
Hours of Operation
I do not maintain fixed hours and am happy to coordinate with you to find a mutually convenient date and time to meet.
Month-Long Art Course with Annual Artisan Membership to The Aplomb Project: A Safe and Supportive Space for Creativity
Duration:
1 Month
Price:
$160.00
Quantity:
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Duration:
2 Months
Price:
$300.00
Quantity:
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Duration:
3 Months
Price:
$420.00
Quantity:
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Conditions Addressed
Offering
Explore the transformative power of art through one of our enriching month-long courses at Aplomb Gallery, available in a hybrid format with both in-person and virtual participation. These courses are open to all experience levels and include weekly 2-hour sessions designed to foster creativity, self-expression, and growth. At Aplomb, every course, workshop, and meetup is trauma-informed, creating a safe and supportive environment for survivors, allies, and creative individuals alike.
Enjoy the Art Cafe, Restoration, Events
Access to book 8 monthly art cafe or restoration sessions
Join in our community events
What We Offer
Participants are surveyed to determine which topics and times work best, ensuring that each course is tailored to your interests and availability. Your course credit never expires, giving you the flexibility to join when it suits you best. Below are examples of the inspiring courses we provide:
Birds of a Feather Drawing Course:
Focus on creating beautiful bird drawings using dry mixed media. Participants will explore various drawing techniques to build texture and depth, working from bird-themed photo references. Materials are provided to support a mindful and engaging artistic experience.Pen and Ink Harvest:
Delve into the Fall with a harvest-themed pen and ink drawing class led by founder Danielle Festa. We will explore different techniques that will make our drawings pop. We will try unique patterns and build textures as we are inspired by harvest references with black ink. Use observational skills and/or try some whimsical prompts.Luminescent Objects – Pastels or Mixed Media:
Work on still-life setups and photo references featuring light sources. Learn techniques to capture light, shadows, and reflections using pastels or mixed media, enhancing your ability to depict luminescence and texture.
Special Benefits to CAT’s Community
As a special offering to CAT’s community, all courses include:
Free Course Materials: Receive everything you need to fully participate in your chosen course.
Artisan Level Membership: Enjoy 8 monthly art cafe or restoration sessions, access to expressive art meetups, workshops, and community challenges through The Aplomb Project platform, fostering collaboration and creativity in a supportive environment.
Whether you are a seasoned artist or new to creative expression, these courses provide a nurturing space to explore your talents, connect with a vibrant community, and find inspiratio
Engagement Method
In-Person
Virtual
Additional Information
• You must be able to access our Zoom link via phone, tablet, or computer, or visit us in person at our fully handicap-accessible gallery.
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