Hat Party

Today we say hats off — or on — in celebration of the opening of Matisse’s Femme au chapeau: A Modern Scandal. Join us for a day of craft-making inspired by the exhibition. Design and create a hat of your choice alongside teaching artists from SCRAP, make vibrant flores de papel (paper flowers) with artist Irma Ortiz, and decorate a fireworks-inspired chapeau with award-winning illustrator Cátia Chien. Do you have a favorite hat of your own at home? Be sure to wear it!

Plus, don’t miss our panel conversation On Creative Courage: Artists in Conversation at 2 p.m. in Wattis Theater on Floor 1.

Event Schedule

Flores de Papel with Irma Ortiz
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | Floor 4, Gina and Stuart Peterson White Box

Flores de papel are a beloved tradition across Mexico and Latin America — simple handmade paper flowers that make heartfelt gifts and festive decorations for the home. This activity was developed by Irma Ortiz, an Oakland-based educator and artist who grew up in Querétaro, Mexico, where her family taught her the craft.
 

Hat-Making with SCRAP
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | Floor 4, Gina and Stuart Peterson White Box
11 a.m.–2 p.m. | Floor 2, Koret Education Center

Channel your inner Matisse at SCRAP’s hat-making extravaganza! Inspired by the bold brushstrokes and vivid spirit of Femme au chapeau, this hands-on workshop invites you to craft a one-of-a-kind hat using butcher paper, tissue paper, tape, and cardstock bands. No experience needed — just bring your creativity and a willingness to wear your art on your head.
 
Fireworks Hat-Making with Cátia Chien
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Floor 4, Gina and Stuart Peterson White Box

Join 2026 Caldecott Medalist Cátia Chien in creating colorful hats inspired by her illustrated book Fireworks. Using scratch paper, collage techniques, and fabric generously provided by Kamperett, participants will craft joyful, celebratory party hats — the perfect accessory for the day’s festivities! Hear from Chien at 2 p.m. in the panel conversation On Creative Courage: Artists in Conversation in Wattis Theater on Floor 1.

*Please note: the Matisse’s Femme au chapeau: A Modern Scandal exhibition requires a surcharged, timed ticket.