Toronto, Canada
3-Day Paper Mobile-Making Retreat
with Paula Hartmann
September 18 - 20, 2026
Where Paper Starts to Move
Join artist Paula Hartmann for a three-day immersive retreat in Toronto, where paper and wire come together to create kinetic sculptures that feel alive. Through guided, hands-on workshops, you’ll learn how to shape wire, build a wide variety of sculptural paper forms, and explore the delicate balance that allows your pieces to move freely in space.
This retreat is rooted in play, experimentation, and creative freedom. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just beginning, you’ll be supported step by step while having the space to explore your own ideas and develop a personal approach to mobile-making.
Discover the Magic of Kinetic Art
Step into the world of kinetic art and learn how to create handcrafted mobiles that gently respond to air and light. Using a variety of papers and wires, you’ll design and build sculptural pieces that move, shift, and evolve—bringing a sense of lightness and wonder into any space.
What’s Included:
Hands-on workshops with Paula Hartmann, covering all aspects of paper mobile creation
A beginner-friendly workshop in lasercutting led by an expert at the creative hub The Makerbean cafe
All materials, including different papers, wires, tools, and design templates
Personal guidance from Paula throughout the retreat
A calming and creative atmosphere to help you unwind and focus
Opportunities to connect with like-minded creatives
Snacks and drinks throughout the day
ITINERARY
Day 1 — FOUNDATIONS
Wire · Paper · Play
- Learn essential wire techniques (bending, shaping, looping)
- Explore paper folding, 3D paper forms and easy Origami shapes
- Create first mobile elements
- Experiment with balance, movement, and composition
Day 2 — DESIGN
Shape · Expand · Express
- Introduction to laser cutting in a fun athmosphere at the Makerbean Cafe in Toronto
- Design your own shapes on the computer and translate them into costum paper and wood elements
- Bring your creative ideas to life with the help of technology. It’s so fun!
Day 3 — COMPLETION
Refine · Balance · Bring to Life
- Learn attachment and balancing techniques
- Work on bringing all your modules together in a kinetic sculpural form
- Complete your mobile(s)
Schedule Friday + Sunday:
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM:
Gather at the Miraki Life studio for hands-on lessons with Paula and time to experiment and work at your own pace.
Schedule Saturday:
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM:
A highlight of the retreat is a hands-on laser cutting workshop—fun, inspiring, and full of creative possibilities.
You’ll design your own shapes using simple, beginner-friendly tools and watch them come to life in paper or wood. No experience needed—the process is easy to learn, but the results feel refined and unique.
Optional visit of artisan paper stores afterwards.
Note:
Lunch breaks will be taken around noon. Please bring your own lunch. Light snacks and beverages will be provided throughout the day.
This Retreat Includes:
Expert-led art instruction and hands-on guidance
Lasercutting workshop led by an expert
Comprehensive supply lists and detailed instructional handouts
All necessary art materials and tools for creating your kinetic art pieces
Water, tea, coffee and snacks to keep your creativity flowing
Not Included in Your Tuition:
Accommodations
Travel arrangements
Meals
Meet your instructor Paula
Paula Hartmann is a Canadian visual artist whose joyful, kinetic sculptures transform humble materials into poetic, suspended worlds.
Based in Toronto and originally from Germany, she draws on cultural traditions, folk aesthetics, and contemporary design to create works that explore impermanence, transformation, and belonging. Often incorporating paper, wire, and natural elements, her mobiles and installations invite viewers into moments of play, presence, and quiet wonder.
Her installations have been featured in major public art events, including Toronto’s Nuit Blanche, the Burlington Waterfront Sculpture Trail and the DesignTO Festival.
She has created site-specific artworks for renowned spaces such as the Gladstone House and collaborated with global brands including UGG.
Reservation & Contact
Mobile-Making Retreat, September 18 - 20, 2026
Spots are limited to 10 participants
Total Price: $750 USD
Reserve your spot now with a $200 deposit!
Pay the rest on Aug 1st, 2026.
Got questions? Email us at misspaulahartmann@gmail.com
We’re happy to help!
Read kind words from past workshop and retreat participants
“Paula,…I can’t express enough how much I enjoyed the event and the joy it brings me to have this in my home.”
“I love my mobile art. It’s in my living room. I watch it non-stop and it makes me so happy.”
“There is nothing greater than women coming together to create! These beautifully coloured works of happiness fill me with such joy! Can’t wait for the next event.”
“Thank you for such a healing event!”
“Not a day goes by that I don’t think about this trip and how it positively impacted my mind and soul.”
Come Join us in September in Toronto!
Accommodation Tips & Recommendations
Here is some helpful information on booking an Airbnb or hotel for the retreat weekend.
Both of our workshop locations will be in the West end of Toronto.
Miraki Life Studio (35 Golden Ave.) in Roncesvalles
Makerbean Cafe (1052 Bloor Str West)
You can look for Airbnbs in Roncesvalles, a lovely neighborhood just east of High Park. Other great areas to look for accommodation include The Junction, High Park, and Bloor West—all well-connected by public transit and beautiful to explore on foot.
Here’s a link to Airbnbs in the area.
If you’re considering a hotel, I highly recommend Gladstone House—
a stunning, artsy boutique hotel nearby. It may be on the pricier side, but they occasionally offer great deals.
Of course, there are plenty of hotels in downtown Toronto as well. If you stay near Queen Street, you’ll have easy access to the streetcar, which runs every 10 minutes and takes about 25-35 minutes to reach Roncesvalles.
Let me know if you have any questions—I’m happy to help!
Highpark - a ten minute walk from Roncesvalles
Roncesvalles Village - the welcoming neighbourhood in Toronto
Cancellations and Refunds
If you need to cancel your registration for any reason, please let us know as soon as possible. If someone fills your spot, your payment will be refunded. If we are not able to fill your spot after your payment, you will not receive a refund. If I have to cancel the retreat, you will receive a full refund. You may wish to purchase trip insurance.
If you have questions, feel free to e-mail Paula: misspaulahartmann@gmail.com.
Frequently asked Questions
What is the weather like in Toronto in September?
In Toronto, September generally marks the transition from summer to fall, with mild and comfortable weather. Temperatures usually range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F) in the daytime, while evenings and early mornings can be cooler, with temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
Do I need any prior art experience to participate?
No prior art experience is required to join the retreat. The workshops cater to participants of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists.
Is transportation provided from the Toronto airport?
No. Participants need to organize their own transportation. However, Paula will give you detailed information and different options how to get from the airport to the city. Uebers cost between $ 30-40 USD. The train (UP Express) from the airport the city costs about $ 9 USD and runs every 15 minutes.
Do I need a car in Toronto?
You can easily get around using public transportation. When booking your accommodation, please note that the retreat will take place in Toronto's West End, near High Park and the Roncesvalles area.
Why is food not included in the retreat?
The retreat runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM each day, with a 30-45 minute lunch break. Rather than providing meals, we invite you to bring your own lunch or explore one of the many nearby cafés and restaurants.
Over time, we’ve found that dietary needs and preferences vary so widely that it’s difficult to create a food offering that truly works for everyone. This way, you have the flexibility to choose what feels best for your body and your day.