Use the thing you already share.
At a workshop, ask what made the other person choose it. On a walk, ask whether they know the route. In a conversation circle, try “What is something you have been meaning to make time for?” Shared context makes an opening easier to answer than a request for someone’s entire life story.
Offer a little before asking a little.
“I have not picked up a paintbrush since school. What about you?” gives the other person somewhere to begin. Follow their answer rather than moving through a list of prepared questions. If they mention a book, ask what drew them to it. If an answer is short, let the conversation change direction.
Let ordinary moments be ordinary.
You do not need to fill every pause. Looking at the work in front of you, taking a sip of coffee, or noticing the route can give everyone a moment. Keep early questions away from private health, finances, relationships, or other topics someone has not chosen to share. A good conversation leaves room for boundaries.
Make the ending easy as well.
When it is time to leave, “I enjoyed talking with you” is enough. If you would like to keep in touch, ask rather than assume: “Would you be interested in doing this again?” Let a no be a no. A pleasant first meeting can stand on its own, and exchanging contact details should always be a mutual choice.