REGISTRATION REQUIRED - SPACE IS LIMITED

Tuesday, October 6, 2026 - SOLD OUT

10:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Join us for a hands-on creative workshop on Ellis Island led by Jersey City artist Nat Kalbach. You’ll explore the playful, painterly technique of gel printing to create a series of one-of-a-kind postcards inspired by the island’s history and your own life stories. This free workshop was developed with Hudson County seniors in mind, though all adults are welcome to participate.

Presented by Save Ellis Island, this special workshop begins with a scenic ferry ride to the island, followed by a brief guided tour around the Ellis Island Hospital grounds, where over one million immigrants once received care. On the south side of Ellis Island, you'll discover a lesser-known chapter of American history, one of compassion, medical innovation, and resilience.

Then it's time to get creative. Guided by Jersey City artist Nat Kalbach, you'll explore the playful, painterly technique of gel printing. No art experience is needed, just your memories and your imagination. Gel printing is wonderfully forgiving and full of happy surprises: using soft gel plates, paint, stencils, and found textures, every print that comes off the plate is unique. You'll layer colors and patterns to design your own postcards, then add personal messages, memories, or a note to someone special.

All materials are provided in individual, ready-to-use kits at your seat. Whether you consider yourself creative or haven't picked up a paintbrush in decades, you'll leave with beautiful, personal artwork, and a story worth sending.

This program is made possible by a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a division of the Department of State, and administered by the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development, Craig Guy, Hudson County Executive & the Hudson County Board of County Commissioners.

All workshop participants will be required to complete a waiver prior to participating in the tour.

Travel to Ellis Island

Round-trip ferry transportation is included at no cost. Ferries depart from Liberty State Park, NJ and Battery Park, NYC. Please plan to arrive at your selected ferry terminal approximately one hour before the workshop begins to allow time for security screening, ferry boarding, and travel to Ellis Island. Two weeks before the event, registered guests will receive an email with their ferry departure location, recommended arrival time, ferry ticket, and complete boarding instructions.

Lunch

The workshop includes a 45-minute lunch break. Participants are welcome to bring a packed lunch or purchase an optional boxed lunch during registration. The boxed lunch menu is available below for review before registering. Guests who purchase the lunch option will receive a follow-up email after registration to confirm their lunch selection.

Boxed Lunch Menu PDF

Accessibility Needs or Questions? Let us know if you have any accessibility needs, mobility considerations, or questions that would help us make your visit as comfortable as possible. Please note that portions of the walking tour take place outdoors on uneven surfaces. For more information or to request accommodations,email us at info@saveellisisland.org or call 201-332-8485 ext. 4.