Village Calligraphy Workshop Recap

Once again I had the pleasure of teaching at Village in Sayville. This time I was thrilled to share the knowledge of calligraphy with an intimate group on a Thursday evening. We had candles lit, chocolates near, and the sound of our dip pens moving across parchment. It was everything I dreamed of. Years ago I started my business teaching calligraphy through the north east. I traveled and hosted workshops all over. I taught in my own studios on Long Island, and lettered many items for weddings. The last time I taught was masks on in the pandemic, and this was such a wonderful way to get back into teaching an art form that is so near and dear to me.

I was so proud of everyone’s progress! Left handed or right handed, some experience or no experience - everyone left that evening with a better understanding of how to use the tools, and create lovely letters.

February Calligraphy Workshop at Village in Sayville, NY

I will be launching an online workshop so regardless of where you live or if you have taken a workshop in the past and want to brush up on your skills you can do so from the comfort of your home. Keep in mind, I do offer private lessons too. Reach out, I’d love to help!

Village Watercolor Workshop Recap

It takes a village! I’m thrilled to partner with Village in Sayville this wonderful general store that opened in 2024. When Ashley the owner asked me to teach here I instantly knew YES! Surrounded by beautifully curated gifts we hosted our first handmade watercolor workshop of 2025 here. I designed a custom watercolor sheet based on the store, and attendees were able to see the paint making process in person. After an intro everyone had full access to my handmade paints from earth & mineral pigments along with a variety of my designs to create their own paintings.

I can’t wait to teach more workshops like this in 2025. I have some scheduled, so make sure you’re checking the event page for upcoming options.

And don’t worry if you’re not local. I’m working on NEW online classes! Stay tuned.

2024 NATURE CONSERVANCY RECAP

The four artists selected for the 2024 Nature Conservancy grant with Andy Warhol Visual Arts Foundation, from left to right top row: Ria Rajan, Christie Jones bottom row: Michelle Brody, Jasmine Gutbrod

Last autumn I had the absolute honor of being selected as one of the 2024 Nature Conservancy artists to receive a grant from the Andy Warhol Visual Arts Foundation. In October, I led a plein air workshop at the private Andy Warhol Preserve in Montauk, New York. It was a wonderful small group of adventurers. We drove into the preserve, hiked with our materials into this gorgeous opening overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It was something right out of a movie. The weather was perfect, warm with a cool ocean breeze. The sun shone down upon us as we savored the sights, smells, and sounds of this remote location.

This experience solidified my excitement of creating with others en plein air. I have always enjoyed the unpredictability of painting outdoors, but seeing the joy on everyone’s faces made me realize how special it truly is. Gathering to create, being in nature, appreciating the moment these are all important things especially as life twists and turns. Being among others who share these passions is a special thing. I am grateful that the grant provided access to this historic setting, along with the materials that I was able to provide and share with attendees. I hope this is the first of many workshop experiences like this.