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Enjoy These No-Experience-Needed Art WORKSHOPS!

4/1/2023

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It's time to play! Join my no-experience-needed art classes in public and private settings in the DMV area. Let me introduce you to unique techniques and support your creative spirit. Check back often as I add workshops through the year.

PUBLIC WORKSHOPS

IN-PERSON Mar 25 * 2pm: Floral Design & Painting Workshop
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PRIVATE WORKSHOPS

​Private in-person art sessions for your friends and colleagues are available in the DMV area. It's all about relaxation into the colorful world of creativity. Create, laugh, and enjoy each other's company. 

What are some fun occasions to create with a group?
  • Birthdays and life celebrations
  • Friend and family gatherings
  • Parent-teen bonding
  • Out of town guest entertainment
  • Team building

What are you getting?
  • Private instruction in a topic of your choice
  • 2-hour session (1.5 hours of playtime and 0.5 hour of setup/cleanup)
  • All supplies provided
  • No experience needed
  • Currently booking May, June, and July 2023
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What are the approximate prices? 
  • Group up to 6 
    • My private studio in Kensington, MD - $195
    • Your location in the DMV - $235 
  • Group up to 12
    • Your location in the DMV - $420
Book an Art Party
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PAST PUBLIC WORKSHOPS
ZOOM Oct 19 * 6pm: Abstract Self-portrait (Smith Center for Healing and the Arts)
IN-PERSON Oct 26 * 6:30pm: Visualizing Home: Meditation & Collage (Girls Who Paint)
ZOOM Nov 16, 2022 * 7pm: Vincent van Gogh's Irises in Watercolors
ZOOM Dec 7, 2022 * 7pm: Henri Matisse's Window in Watercolors
ZOOM Jan 25, 2023 * 7pm: Watercolor Painting: Claude Monet’s Water Lilies
IN-PERSON Jan 27 * 6pm: Floral Design & Painting Workshop SOLD OUT
ZOOM Feb 1 * 7pm: Watercolor Painting: William Turner's Storms
ZOOM Feb 23 * 6pm: Visualizing Home (Meditation & Collage)
ZOOM Mar 15 * 7pm: Watercolor Painting: ​Georgia O'Keeffe's Poppies
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Art Workshops For Your Curious Self!

4/1/2023

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3D Floral Collage

Do you enjoy flowers and their blooms? Are you intrigued by watercolor? Join Martina Sestakova, art educator, for a workshop, during which you will create a colorful 3D flower collage in watercolors. We will tear out shapes, assemble our flowers, and paint them in a variety of bright colors. No experience is necessary as you learn the basics behind watercolors and create a unique floral composition.
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Abstract Self-portrait

Many artworks have been created about the self. In this workshop, join art educator Martina Sestakova, in a visual exploration of your senses and what makes you a unique self. We will take a look at the works of artists such as Sonia Delaunay, Paul Klee, and Karel Appel, while we write, share, and work in watercolors. We will study up on abstract art and create a cool self-portrait. 
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Abstract Art Inspired by Poetry

Enjoy a workshop of poetry reading and abstract painting with art educator Martina Sestakova. We will refer to poems and songs for inspiration for intuitive visual explorations. May words be interpreted through colors, shapes, and textures? Join in and see! You will explore the exciting interaction of words and watercolors in abstract compositions.
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Insightful Collage

Intrigued with abstract art? Drawn to watercolor? Join art educator Martina Sestakova for a workshop, during which you get to create a unique collage. We will learn about basic watercolor techniques and explore ideas behind colors, shapes, and textures. Then, we will create a deeply meaningful collage through a fun creative process. 
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Patterns and Mark Making

Interested with patterns? Drawn to watercolor? Join art educator Martina Sestakova for a workshop, during which you create a series of abstract patterns inspired by the artworks of Dorothy Liebes (textiles) and Alma Thomas (painting). We will play in colors, shapes, and textures and delve into basic watercolor techniques. 
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​Mini Floral Paintings

Did you know flowers are the most popular theme in art? Join art educator Martina Sestakova for a workshop, during which we take a look at famous fabric patterns and create a series of our own small floral paintings in watercolors. We will play with colors, shapes, and textures and delve into basic watercolor techniques. Supplies: watercolors on paper.
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Abstract Art Inspired by Music 

Enjoy a relaxing workshop of listening to music and painting with art educator Martina Sestakova. Let’s pause to the music by Mozart, Louis Armstrong, Edith Piaf, and others and use their musical creations for our own intuitive visual explorations. May music’s healing aspects be interpreted as colors, shapes, and energy? Join in and see! You will appreciate the exciting interaction of tunes and watercolors in abstract compositions.
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What my students say about THeir Experiences

"Thank YOU for the class! We had a great time, as always. We love your sense of humor, your energy, and the friendly and casual vibe during the classes. Clearly we're big fans since we can't seem to stop signing up for them. I'm sure we'll see you again for more fun, new, interesting projects and techniques!" (Nicole)

Martina did a great job warming us up to the idea of watercolor. She also provided a short art history lesson about Monet and encouraged us to use our own creativity rather than copy someone else's work. It was fun to see her light up when we showed our finished pieces! (Regina)

"Martina is an excellent teacher, she is very kind, she knows her work, she explains very well, her classes are very entertaining, I enjoy her classes very much." (Claudia)

"I had such a nice time last night! Martina was a great teacher. The whole group was lovely. I found it very relaxing. The class was good timing for me. My youngest is getting ready to move out next month. I am going to have more time on my hands and want to get back into crafting. Last night was just what I needed to get the spark to get back to crafting. Thanks! I can't wait until the next craft party!" (Meredith)

"Martina was a gentle and encouraging guide to watercolor painting in this fun online class. She creatively woven poetry with painting to allow all of the participants to explore watercolors and share ideas and stories. So much fun!" (Fran)

"I signed up (for a new class)! Can’t wait! Ended the semester with one of your classes (gave my last final and bolted over to you) and now starting the new one with one given by you!  Abstract is tough for me and I love going on the journey with you! Happy 2019!" (Moira)

"Martina's workshop was a joyful experience! I attended alongside two of my family members as a holiday gift. None of us familiar with watercolor, we learned to play and create without reservation through Martina's guided process." (Kara)

"Martina was amazing. She gave me a totally new perspective/philosophy on art and what it means to be creative." (Noor)
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Solo Show at Chesapeake Framing: Through March 31

3/20/2023

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Sculpted Paintings on Display at Olive & Loom

3/19/2023

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I am grateful to Olive & Loom - a delightful gift shop in Kensington, MD - for inviting me to showcase my art in their store! Yay! Stop by to see a collection of my sculpted paintings (acrylic inks on manipulated crepe de chine). 
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Playing with Colors!

3/18/2023

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5-Star Reviews All Around! Thank You!

3/15/2023

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Kensington, MD: Women-Owned Small BUsinesses

3/9/2023

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What an Amazing Portrait by Artist Li Wang!

3/9/2023

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I am humbled to be the subject of this wonderful painting by Li Wang. We met several years ago at a park - an art chat led to a studio visit and ultimately to this artwork. Li now resides in Colorado and just completed her thesis portfolio. Congratulations! Be sure to follow her on Instagram at @liwang_art
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Visit Red Orchard's New Location at wildwood Shopping

3/8/2023

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My Client Loves Her New "Flamingo" Scarf!

3/7/2023

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"Carte Blanche" Art Show at The Adah Rose Gallery

3/6/2023

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Adah Rose Bitterbaum, owner of the Adah Rose Gallery in Kensington, MD, kindly invited me to curate a section of her space for the annual "Carte blanche" art show. Adah Rose's gallery is a treasure chest of fabulous artworks and I had so much fun selecting a collection of artworks that would tell a visually interesting story and celebrate connections established through colors, shapes, and textures. Read on about my experience and be sure to visit the show through March 25, 2023.
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I both create and appreciate art. In my selection of these artworks, I was drawn to abstracts - the focus on my own art practice. I find it so incredibly exciting to see how artists use the same color, how they alter shapes and explore forms, and how they generate textures visually and physically. The colors in this collection are limited - I wanted to highlight just a few - so you could enjoy in depth what can be done. There are beiges in paper and wood sculptures. There are blues in acrylics, watercolors, oils. Black and white textures make an appearance in intricate pen work and cut outs layered on top of each other. And of course, we need a pop of energy: reds come in both strongly and delicately. 

In terms of art appreciation, I find art to be an essential vehicle for a curious and good quality life. What do I mean? I enjoy pausing in front of a piece of art and letting it 'speak' to me. Art evokes emotions and thoughts. It alters our mood: it may make us smile; it may make us reconsider an idea. Ultimately, art changes us. And change is part of life: really, the only true constant of our lives. I invite you to ponder change as you view the display. Do these artworks change in their relationships to others? Do they draw you in? Do they make you lean in or step further away? If you go see the show repeatedly, I promise there will be new discoveries every time. Hence, art captures change and change prompts our curiosity about life. It's a never-ending - and life-affirming - cycle. 
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Participating artists include Wayson Jones, Alison Rash, Mary Freedman, Jessica Drank, Scott Hazard, Maggie Gourlay, Jordan Wine, Randall Lear, Wesley Berg, Brian Dupont, Meimei Chang, Jim Condron, J D Deardourff, Anton Coghlan, Ellyn Weiss, Michelline Klagsbrun, Christina Tenaglia, Martina Sestakova, and Sheila Giolitti. Below you may find the complete curated set-up. All artworks are available for purchase. 
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The Adah Rose Gallery is located at 3766 Howard Ave, Kensington, MD 20895. Please check the website for opening hours or call Adah Rose at (301) 922-0162 to make an appointment to view this art exhibition. Follow the gallery on Instagram to learn more about upcoming exhibitions and represented artists. Enjoy!​
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Fantastic Art Opening at Chesapeake Framing Co

3/5/2023

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How My Student Captured Me in Her Painting

3/5/2023

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Solo Show: Opening Reception Is Today!

3/4/2023

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A Lovely Collection at Locally Crafted

3/3/2023

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Teresa Jade Jarzynski's Latest Work-In-Progress Artwork: Time Well Spent

3/1/2023

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It all always works out. Teresa asked me about 4 or 5 years ago if I would be a model for a painting and here we go! And dare I say: we both needed this time together. 

Teresa Jade Jarzynski is a visual artist who works in oils and watercolors and captures the beauty of daily life. Based in Bethesda, MD, she works and creates about a 10-minute drive from my home studio. A conversation several years ago led to recent quick text messages and over the course of three sessions, Teresa started to create a stunning painting. I am humbled to be the subject of it and am excited to share the work in progress with you. 

So, why does it all work out? They say timing is everything and in our case, Teresa and I came to spending quality (and oh so lovely) time in her studio. When I first sat down, Teresa was all bubbly with energy and joy. She casually mentioned that her word of the year (a choice she makes as a ritual to reaffirm her life experience) is 'auspicious'. Well, mine is 'home'. Don't these work just perfect together? 

Parallels in our life journey facilitated a delightful experience for both of us. We started with a sketch: Teresa brainstormed composition, the goal of her own creative experience, and how to proceed next. 
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Why did we both need this time together? To tell the truth, I just needed to sit. For long stretches of time. To be. To feel home (in her studio) and in my own mind and body. I do a bit of rushing and organizing and sitting down was essential to pondering the next steps in my life and creative practice. Teresa, on the other hand (as it seems to me), needed a fresh new experience: exploration, stepping outside of her comfort, looser brush strokes to capture this opening up. And painting big and no holding back!

​We mixed lively conversations with long periods of quiet time. Dynamic brush strokes on the canvas and music comingled in the background of the cozy studio. 
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We are both thinking about how we want to live and create. We also connected over our experience of the DMV art world and as women artists. I rested in my chair while Teresa whispered to herself about the piece of art taking shape in front of her. It was an honor to witness the process: her coming creatively alive in her studio. 
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We chatted about books, films, friendships, living where we live, family histories. I find that time in an art studio is just good for the soul. Scroll below for photos of Teresa in action. 
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The notions of 'auspicious' and 'home' are coming together in this vivid painting. The collaboration of two female artists may have taken place during chilly weather outside but has brought much warmth on the inside. I say, how fortunate!

​But stick around: this is indeed a work in progress and Teresa and I will be sharing the final artwork at a later date!
To learn more about Teresa's art, check out the resources below. Teresa lives in Bethesda, MD, and may be reached via email at tjade@me.com. In addition to original artworks, prints and commissions are available. Thanks for your support of DMV-based female artists!​

Website: https://www.teresajade.com/
Instagram: @teresasstudio
Newsletter: sign up here
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solo art exhibition at the Chesapeake Framing Company

2/28/2023

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Yay! 🤗 I would like to invite you to my solo art exhibition at the Chesapeake Framing Company. Details below in case you may be interested in stopping by: Martina Sestakova’s Solo Art Show (March 1-31) @martinasestakovaart
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Thanks to Mary Jo Moon for supporting local artists!
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Enjoy Martina’s paintings in the “Visual Insights into Life’s Beauty” series at the Chesapeake Framing Company. Her original large-scale pieces on yupo explore words, their role in our lives, and how their energy may be conveyed in colors, shapes, and textures.

“Meet the Artist” Opening - Saturday, March 4, 4-6pm.

Free to the public; open during store hours at 10507 Metropolitan Ave, Kensington, MD 20895. Tue-Sat (10am-6pm), Sun-Mon (Closed). 301-942-0485. @chesapeakeframing
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Such a Fun Private Birthday/Art Party!

2/26/2023

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All hands on deck at this private art party! Happy birthday to my host 🎉 What a lovely afternoon spending time with a group of close friends and filling it up with laughter and a floral collage project 🌺
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PRIVATE WORKSHOPS FOR YOUR FRIENDS AND WORK TEAMS - I enjoy watching people coming into a class, creating together, and leaving refreshed. Want to create with friends? Do you have a business that would enjoy a creative project? Your group will feel relaxed and closer to each other.

​Contact me to schedule a private session. @radostbymartinasestakova
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February Newsletter Is Out in the World!

2/2/2023

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Hello friends! My February RADOST NEWS just went out. The first month of 2023 flew by, didn't it? I am settling back into my studio after a little break and good things are happening (I have a solo show coming up in March!). This year is all about connection, curiosity, and pause. You can find all of these in this newsletter! As always, Mary Oliver captures it best, "Sometimes I need only to stand wherever I am to be blessed."

Let's be in touch! @radostbymartinasestakova @martinasestakovaart

Read the February issue of YOUR RADOST NEWS here. 
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A Happy Customer

2/1/2023

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A New Collection of RADOST Scarves at Gifts Inn Boonsboro

1/30/2023

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Collaboration Alert! Shop New Art!

1/26/2023

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Can we talk about life's beautiful moments? I created a set of paintings with my niece and nephew during a trip to Prague. Sparks in their eyes, laughter, aunt Martina, look! look! I will always cherish this experience. Wish to support their artistic efforts? Shop https://www.radostbymartinasestakova.com/store/c14/Abstracts
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9 New Scarf Designs in Online Shop!

1/22/2023

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NEW! NEW! NEW! My online shop now has 9 new designs. Shop this link - these scarves make for fabulous #valentinesday gifts! New scarves: Perseverance (Gingko Leaves), Potential (Flamingos), Togetherness (Elephants), May You Be Loved, Well-being (Chrysanthemums), Flying a Kite, Transformation (Butterflies, three options)
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Thank you for a Fun Show, Girls Who Paint!

1/21/2023

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Shop Made in DC: Art Already Sold at 10x10 Art Show

1/19/2023

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I am back in my studio and what lovely news to hear: my painting ("Open the Door") sold (before the opening reception) in the 10x10 art show at Shop Made in DC. I am so grateful for your support of my work!
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