The space that houses QD Gallery was previously home to many things, from electric cars to housewares, but now it's a place to enjoy local art — and learn something new, too.

QD Gallery is hosting a reception Aug. 31 where visitors can not only meet some of the gallery's featured artists, but also get creative themselves and learn how to make their own terrariums. The pop-up gallery, which has occupied various spaces at Stanford Shopping Center for the past four years, showcases the creations of 26 local artists who work in a variety of media, including painting, jewelry, wood, ceramics and glass.

Guests can enjoy light refreshments and chat with artists Ann Hogle, Thalia Stratton, Bob Bley, Kit Colman, Julia Watson, Amara Fiesterman and Jesse Nguyen, a painter who is also the founder and director of the gallery.

The event also features a live demo of terrarium building, with floral designers on hand who will guide guests through choosing their own floral pieces and containers.

The reception takes place Aug. 31, 4-7 p.m. at QD Gallery, 660 Stanford Shopping Center, Suite 850, Palo Alto. For more information, call 650-270-7863 or visit qdgallery.com.