At Chesapeake Framing Company, we believe in celebrating local artists. In March 2022, stop by to enjoy Martina Sestakova’s solo art show. Martina’s original pieces on YUPO (a synthetic paper made from polypropylene resin) explore words, their role in our lives, and how their energy may be conveyed in colors, shapes, and textures. This free show is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Shop HERE.

I thank Chitra Sharma for including me in her wonderful blog for Montgomery Art Association. What an honor to share insights about creativity with four of my fellow MAA members in "Women's History Month: 5 Artists and 5 Questions." 
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By Chitra Sharma: "To show support for the campaign, and to commemorate March as Women's History Month, I sat down with five MAA members from diverse backgrounds to ask them five questions about their art, process, and the contributions of women in art."

It's time to play! Join my no-experience-needed art classes in public and private settings, organizations, businesses, and retirement communities. I will introduce you to interesting techniques and encourage your own creativity! Sign up here.

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.

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. 

Abstract Art Inspired by Mary Oliver’s Poetry: Enjoy a workshop of poetry reading and abstract painting with art educator Martina Sestakova. We will refer to Mary Oliver’s poems 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.

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. 

Patterns and Mark Making: Intrigued with abstract art? 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. 

​Mini Floral Paintings: Did you know flowers are the most popular theme in textile design? 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.

SCARF SPECS
 
RADOST scarves are crafted with much joy in the United States. Each scarf has a name and comes with a short story of inspiration to remind us of the good things in life. These scarves are lightweight, comfortable, and great for all seasons and occasions with a variety of styling options. 
 
RADOST scarves have been featured on Voice of America and at the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, DC.

Material: Lightweight crepe de chine (100% polyester)
Dimensions for infinity scarf (closed): 5.5" high x 25.5" wide (doubled over)
Dimensions for rectangular scarf (open): 5.5" high x 51" wide 
Care instructions: Hand wash cold and line dry; do not bleach
For best drape, hang on a hook
 
FABRIC NECKLACE SPECS
 
RADOST necklaces are crafted with much joy in the United States. Each fabric necklace has a name and comes with a short story of inspiration to remind us of the good things in life. These necklaces are lightweight, comfortable, and great for all seasons and occasions. 

Material: Lightweight crepe de chine (100% polyester)
Shaping/stuffing: recycled fabrics and stainless-steel beads
Clasp: nickel free locking magnetic clasp
Dimensions: 16-18" (each necklace is unique)
​Weight: 1-1.3oz
Care instructions: Hand wash cold and line dry; do not bleach
For best drape, hang on a hook
 
SHIPPING
 
All in-stock items are shipped within 3 to 5 business days via USPS. If an item is out of stock, I will ship it out within 14 days. Need your order by a certain date? Is it a gift? Use the comments section of your order or contact me. 

​SHOP HERE! Thank you for your support of a woman-owned small business!

Give it a listen! What a fun experience with the folks at Environmental Professionals Radio.
On this week's episode, Nic and Laura chat with Martina Sestakova, Textile Designer, Art Educator, and Abstract Painter, about art, the beauty of nature, and overcoming your fears. Check it out here.

I am honored to be featured in "Creating with a Vision: In the Studio with Martina Sestakova" on January 28 (7-8:30pm). This event is organized by Silver Spring Town Center and you may register for this free Zoom program here. 

Scan this QR code to be taken to your ticket for "Colorful Blooms" art workshop (in person) at Locally Crafted in Gaithersburg, MD, on December 3 at 6:30pm.

Register here.