Recap: Fall Into the Arts Workshop Series at Arts’tination

This fall, Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council (PGAHC) welcomed community members of all ages to participate in our Fall Into the Arts Workshop Series at Arts’tination, a curated lineup of free creative workshops and events designed to nourish self-expression, well-being, and artistic exploration.

Hosted at Arts’tination at National Harbor, each session offered hands-on experiences led by talented local artists and facilitators. The series ran from late September through early November and attracted first-time creators, families, and seasoned artists alike.

Here’s a recap of the workshops and experiences we shared this season:

• Sound Bath Sessions with the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, 10/11

  A full day of medatative sound bath sessions with practitioners Estephany Rose and Marsh D. Banks Harold, in partnership with the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation. 

• “I Am Not Your Literature” Book Launch with Saniya Pearson, 10/18

  A powerful poetry reading and discussion featuring Prince George’s County Youth Poet Laureate, Saniya Pearson, celebrating Arts and Humanitites Month and the launch of her debut book.

• Intro to Impressionism with Jay Durrah 10/19

  An accessible introduction to impressionist techniques, guided by professional artist Jay Durrah. Attendees created original artwork inspired by the style.

• Mindful Crafting: Taking Care of Your Mental Health, 10/25

  A wellness-centered crafting session using simple materials and intentional prompts to promote calm and mental clarity.

• Spook & Sparkle Halloween Party, 10/26

  Families came out for a festive day of face painting, trick-or-treating, and spooky fun, with themed crafts and costumes encouraged.

• Art Healing: Immersive Art Experience with Sumrien Ali, 11/8

  Participants used abstract art techniques to process emotion, explore color, and create artwork that reflected personal life moments.

• Acrylic Pour Jewelry Making Workshop, 11/9

  Participants created vibrant, marbled accessories using skims from the fluid art technique of acrylic pouring.*

• Hoop It Up: Painting Workshop with Roger James, 11/15

  A basketball-themed art session where attendees explored movement, texture and color while learning pro painting techniques.

• The Great Laugh and Giggle Adventure, 11/16

  A joyful family experience filled with movement, breathing, and play, encouraging mindfulness and connection through laughter.

• Alzheimer’s Awareness Read-Along with Dr. Yemonja Smalls, 11/30

  A family-focused storytelling experience that promotes empathy, understanding, and creative engagement around caregiving and memory.

  [*Note:  This "no-waste" jewelry making class involve no painting. Participants used the byproduct of Artist Mary Faye Claggetts paint pour creations to make their own wearable art.]

Each event emphasized creativity as a tool for connection, healing, and joy—and helped build a more vibrant arts community right here in Prince George’s County.

Thank you to our incredible artists, facilitators, and community members who made this season such a meaningful success.

Explore our gallery below and visit pgahc.org/events for more upcoming events and workshops.