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As midterms approach, many students start spending more time studying and less time relaxing.

Artist Leesa Haapapuro, along with ArtStreet, presents "Munecas Quitapenas," an open studio where participants can create worry dolls to relieve them of their anxieties.

This workshop will be open now through Feb. 26 in ArtStreet Studio D. A closing ceremony and reception will be held 1 to 4 p.m. Feb. 25 in Studio D.

A worry doll is a piece of artwork made out of pieces of paper, scraps of cloth, colored stings, ribbons and wire.

Students can write an anxiety they are facing on a piece of paper and then twist it to form the head and heart of the doll.

Trained in art therapy, Haapapuro has studied artwork that embraces bright colors and intricate patterns. This interest led her to the Gar Drolma Buddhist Center where monks create mandalas as a physical form of prayer. A mandala is a two dimensional circular pattern that is often colorful and has a central figure.

Haapapuro said that studying cultures like this one has inspired her to be a part of creating a unique worry doll exhibit.

"Depending on your intention, the making of a worry doll could be art therapy or a form of prayer," she said.

After participants create their worry doll, they can either take it home or leave it in Studio D to become part of a worry doll exhibit. This exhibit is based on the idea that all things are connected in some way.

ArtStreet is hoping to add even more of a sense of community to the campus with this workshop.

"The purpose of having this is to help UD students, faculty and staff be a part of creating something together," said Susan Byrnes, ArtStreet director. "Lots of times with visual art, someone else makes it and viewers just get to look. In this case, everyone who wants to can be the artist."

Junior mechanical engineering major Beth Schmackers said she has not had many opportunities to participate in the visual arts and is interested in this workshop.

"It's neat that you can be part of the exhibit and help create it," she said.

Supplies to make the dolls will be available in Studio D. During the hours posted, Haapapuro will instruct participants and help them with their creations.

Go to http://leesahaapapuro.com/blog/ to see what times Haapapuro will be in Studio D to assist participants.

Written instructions will also be posted so those who arrive while Haapapuro is absent can still create worry dolls.

Byrnes said she is excited for students and others to attend this art installation.

"They will get rid of all their worries, at least for a little while, by making something that will contribute to a giant work of art," she said. "Also, you don't have to have a lot of technical expertise to get involved."

Schmackers believes that it will be important for students to attend this workshop and become something larger than themselves while taking a break from the stresses of their days.

"It could be cool to follow the well known 'Lion King' saying, 'hakuna matata,' and just relax for a while," she said.