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On Saturday, March 7th, the creative halls of the Montpelier Arts Center came alive with inspiration as members and friends of the Laurel Art Guild gathered for a truly memorable artistic experience. The occasion marked a special opportunity to learn from internationally recognized watercolorist Alexandra Treadaway, whose distinctive techniques and global reputation have captivated audiences and artists alike.

Beginning at 10:00 AM, participants arrived with anticipation, eager to explore new creative possibilities. From the very start, Ms. Treadaway’s presence set an engaging and energetic tone. Her presentation introduced artists to her innovative use of stencils in watercolor—a method that transforms traditional approaches into striking, layered compositions full of texture and depth.

As the session unfolded, attendees quickly immersed themselves in the process. Guided by Ms. Treadaway’s expertise, artists experimented with stencil techniques, producing artworks that reflected both newfound skills and personal expression. The room buzzed with concentration and excitement, as each participant discovered the versatility and visual impact of this unique approach.

The results were nothing short of inspiring. By the end of the session, tables were filled with vibrant pieces showcasing bold patterns and imaginative designs. Conversations flowed easily among participants, who shared their enthusiasm and reflected on the valuable insights gained throughout the class. Beyond the immediate success of the workshop, the event also sparked anticipation for what lies ahead. Discussions are already

underway for a future collaboration between Ms. Treadaway and the Guild, promising another opportunity for artists to engage with her remarkable techniques and expand their creative horizons.

This enriching gathering not only strengthened the artistic community in Laurel but also reaffirmed the Guild’s commitment to providing meaningful, high-quality learning experiences. For those in attendance, March 7th was more than just a workshop—it was a celebration of creativity, connection, and the endless possibilities of art.

Artist Diane Shipley sold her painting called Desert Magic. It is an acrylic measuring 8″ x 24″. 

Diane Shipley sold her painting at the Women’s Club of Chevy Chase Art Show and Sale. It is called Solitude. It is a watercolor measuring 3″ x 4″.

Delia Mychajluk

This is a picture of the sculpture that will be at the art barn.  The armature includes aluminum pans from takeout food,  it is covered with wood chips from some of my wood carvings and steel wool;  the face and hands are polymer clay, and the bottom of the sculpture is part of a old table.  Acrylic paint is used.

I took classes at night in art, while I was a nurse at university of Maryland and in 1983 portfolioed into the Corcoran and finish the fine arts degree from there. Along with raising children and working as a nurse I have been making art pretty consistently since the 80s.  I paint with oil and acrylics and also do some mixed media sculpture and some wood carving.  I retired from nursing in 2016 and I now have a studio space in Riverdale Maryland with nine other artists.

Eunice Berrios

t’s something I learned as a child. It’s a mosaic. I made free pencil movements to create the frame, and then I used complementary colors to fill each space, almost imitating stained glass. Between the colors, I used gold to highlight the lines and stylize it, and in the end I went over the black again, carefully rounding the connections to give it delicacy and detail.

It is really free art—an art meant to practice mindfulness, as a form of meditation.