Workshops
Creativity & Learning
EMILY'S EXPERIENCE
Ever since sixth grade, Emily Smucker-Beidler has been creating Fraktur after learning from Roma Ruth, a well-respected Fraktur Artist from Montgomery County, PA. After receiving an Art Education degree and Master’s degree in Art Education, Emily has made her 33 year career in teaching art her passion, while continuing to create custom Fraktur for hundreds of clients. She brings her experience and enthusiasm for teaching to her Fraktur workshops and welcomes artists of all ages and ability levels.
Maybe you’ve taken a workshop before where you leave with a lovely product, but it looks like everyone else’s. Or, at the opposite end of the spectrum, you leave a workshop exhausted, with an unfinished project because it was too hard to make decisions.
Workshops that I teach are different. We start with the same materials, but at every step along the way, you are presented with options….not too many to overwhelm you, not too few that you feel confined. By looking at historic examples, you’ll begin to see what you like and also what you don’t like. This is the beginning of developing your personal style so that when you leave, you’ll have the tools to continue creating.
If your organization is interested in hosting a workshop, I'd love to hear from you!
WORKSHOPS THAT I TEACH
Where did Fraktur artists find their inspiration for the fanciful birds we see in their art of the 1700’s? In this workshop, participants will learn what birds were prevalent here in southeastern Pennsylvania and find connections through Fraktur images.
Folk art flowers are always a good idea! In this 3 hour workshop, we’ll explore how Fraktur artists used pattern and color to create colorful tulips. Participants will start with their choice of a tulip template and then shown how to create a small finished piece in their own individual style.
Learn how to use pen and ink to create an elaborate letter in the Fraktur style of the late 1700s. Patterns inspired by Fraktur made at at the Ephrata Cloisters in the 1700s. Perfect to give as a gift or keep as your own.
Choose one of four historic Fraktur patterns that feature the classic heart shape. Then learn how to make it your own by pulling inspiration from historic examples. Leave with a one-of-a-kind valentine for a loved one. All supplied are included. Prices may vary based on location.
Starting with a prepared slab of clay, choose your desired shapes and Fraktur inspired patterns to create four ornaments of your very own. Learn the traditional craft of “sgraffito,” like early red ware potters of the 1700s.
Early Pennsylvania Germans that were frugal, couldn’t afford to build every household item out of beautiful hardwood. Instead, they grain painted plain pine to make it more attractive and “fancy.” Learn how to grain paint using acrylic paints and glazes and leave with a finished 8x10 frame.