Lifelong Learning: A Summer of Rediscovery & Creative Grow
As artists, educators, and curious minds, we know that learning never truly ends. Whether you are picking up a new technique or returning to a beloved medium, the journey of lifelong learning is one of renewal, exploration, and joy. This summer, Leslie Rose Washington Printmakers Member and WPG’s Georgetown Art Studio Instructor, reminded us just how transformative that journey can be.
Rediscovering Screen-Printing
In August, Leslie attended a four-day workshop at the renowned Penland School of Craft, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains outside Asheville, North Carolina. The course, Reductive Screen-printing, was led by J. Leigh Garcia, a dynamic instructor from the University of Tennessee. With a studio open 24 hours a day, Leslie found herself immersed in the process—free to work whenever inspiration struck.
What made this experience especially meaningful was the return to screen-printing through a safer, chemical-free process. “I was excited about returning to screen-printing with a method that doesn’t expose one to dangerous chemicals,” Leslie shared. “It was a great experience—simple housing, delicious meals, and a community of artists all on their own learning journeys.”
Leslie’s time at Penland was not just about technique, it was about reconnecting with the joy of making, the rhythm of studio life, and the power of a supportive learning environment. In August, Leslie attended a four-day workshop at the renowned Penland School of Craft, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains outside Asheville, North Carolina. The course, Reductive Screen-printing, was led by J. Leigh Garcia, a dynamic instructor from the University of Tennessee. With a studio open 24 hours a day, Leslie found herself immersed in the process—free to work whenever inspiration struck.
What made this experience especially meaningful was the return to screen-printing through a safer, chemical-free process. “I was excited about returning to screen-printing with a method that doesn’t expose one to dangerous chemicals,” Leslie shared. “It was a great experience—simple housing, delicious meals, and a community of artists all on their own learning journeys.”
Leslie’s time at Penland was not just about technique, it was about reconnecting with the joy of making, the rhythm of studio life, and the power of a supportive learning environment.
Join a Fall Studio Offering!
If Leslie’s story inspires you to dive into your own creative learning, the Washington Printmakers Gallery (WPG) has a rich lineup of offerings this fall. A few highlights:
Monoprinting with Sarah Barzmehri – Embrace spontaneity and abstraction using acrylics and glass surfaces to create expressive prints.
Intro to Gel Plate Printing with Jennifer Singh – Your chance to dive into the colorful and creative world of monoprinting with charcoal, acrylic, stencils and layering.
Drawing with Paint with William Demaria – A 6-week class exploring the expressive possibilities of drawing through painterly techniques. Perfect if you are looking to blend drawing fundamentals with the fluidity of paint.
Drawing, Painting & Mixed Media with Sarah Barzmehri – A seven-session course designed for beginners who want to build confidence with fast sketching, contour drawing, color harmony, and composition.
In addition to technique-based classes, WPG School is so pleased to have several mindfulness-centered workshops coming up. These short offerings focus on presence, intuition, and creative well-being—making space for reflection and personal growth. Come find your seat we will MEDITATE & ART JOURNAL, Make Origami and Scrapbook, all in October!
WPG Art Studio events are designed for small groups, ensuring personalized instruction and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are a seasoned printmaker or just beginning your creative journey, we would like to welcome you to learn, grow, and connect.
Georgetown Art Studio at Washington Printmakers Gallery employs many artists as contractors to lead workshops for both adults and youth. Proposals are considered seasonally for classes and monthly for workshops.