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# Touchstone Center for Crafts

A nonprofit arts organization located in southwestern Pennsylvania offering workshops, residencies, exhibitions, and more

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [News](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/about/news/)
- [12 Small Pennsylvania Towns That Make Great Weekend Trips](https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/12-best-pennsylvania-towns-for-a-weekend-trip-2026.html) - World Atlas; For more unique artistic experiences, it’s a short drive out to the Touchstone Center for Crafts and its gallery full of works by local and international artists. And then, there’s Nemacolin, the legendary luxury resort with its own on-site art programs, its stunning array of gourmet restaurants, its full-service Woodlands Spa, its full
- [‘Revolution to Resilience’ bell unveiled in Fayette County](https://www.observer-reporter.com/news/local-news/2025/dec/22/revolution-to-resilience-bell-unveiled-in-fayette-county/) - Observer Reporter, by Jon Andreassi; The lead artist for Fayette County’s Bell was James Mochnsky, who sits on the board of Touchstone Center for Crafts, based in Wharton Township. The theme for Mochnsky’s design is “Revolution to Resilience,” and a ribbon wrapped around the bell represents the Historic National Road. It features several images to
- [Monica Broere: Where Making Is the Destination](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/monica-broere-where-making-is-the-destination/) - Monica BroereMembers Exhibition Feature; For ceramic artist Monica Broere, time with clay has often meant choosing a different kind of vacation. Rather than stepping away from making, Monica seeks out places where learning, focus, and shared work can happen side by side. She approaches clay with an interest in developing a personal voice while allowing
- [Fayette bell unveiling set for Saturday](https://www.dailycourier.com/news/fayette-bell-unveiling-set-for-saturday/article_a76d534e-3928-4ae6-b82e-c576c032044c.html) - The Daily Courier by Roxanne Abramowitz; To honor Fayette County’s history as part of the statewide Bells Across PA initiative commemorating the U.S. Semi-Quincentennial in 2026, the county’s sculptural bell will be unveiled Dec. 20. The unveiling and public viewing will be held 10 a.m. at the Fayette County Courthouse. At their agenda-setting meeting on
- [TOUCHSTONE CENTER Crafting art for all](https://issuu.com/sunflower_publishing/docs/2025_fall_laurel_highlands_magazine) - A unique art complex, Touchstone Center for Crafts welcomes visiting artists and interested tourists to the Laurel Highlands.
- [Kade HB: Exploring the Natural World Through Form and Fire](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/kade-hb-exploring-the-natural-world-through-form-and-fire/) - Kade HB Members Exhibition Feature; For artist Kade HB, clay offers a way to consider how landscapes shape us—slowly and quietly, much like the forces that weather stone. Sculptural forms draw on memories of rocky beaches and tidal pools from childhood on Vancouver Island, as well as later travels through the Southwest and along the
- [Ashton Little: Clay, Curiosity, and the Strength of Community](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/ashton-little-clay-curiosity-and-the-strength-of-community/) - Ashton Little Members Exhibition Feature; For ceramic artist Ashton Little, finding Touchstone felt like discovering the creative home she had been moving toward for years. What began as a date night at the forge soon became volunteer days, a scholarship, a community wood firing, and now a place where Ashton continues to deepen her craft.
- [Sasha Phillips: Painting as Connection, Reflection, and Wellness](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/sasha-phillips-painting-as-connection-reflection-and-wellness/) - Sasha Phillips Members Exhibition Feature; For artist Sasha Phillips, painting is more than a creative act — it’s a practice of mindfulness, storytelling, and connection. Drawing inspiration from color, form, and the human experience, Sasha brings a thoughtful, intuitive energy to her work in the 2025 Touchstone Members Exhibition. Her piece invites viewers to explore
- [Julie Paez: Creation Stories, Natural Materials, and a Deep Sense of Place](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/julie-paez-creation-stories-natural-materials-and-a-deep-sense-of-place/) - Julie Paez Members Exhibition Feature; For artist Julie Paez, every piece begins with the land — with materials shaped by weather, time, and touch, and with stories rooted in the natural cycles of growth, decay, and renewal. Drawing from rusted metal, seed pods, aged wood, and gathered vines, Julie creates work that feels connected to
- [Beverly Post Barrett: A Lifetime of Teaching, Making, and Seeing the Beauty in Nature](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/beverly-post-barrett-a-lifetime-of-teaching-making-and-seeing-the-beauty-in-nature/) - Beverly Post Barrett Members Exhibition Feature; For artist and longtime educator Beverly Post Barrett, creativity has always been grounded in curiosity, close observation, and a lifelong love of nature — values encouraged by parents who taught her to pause and truly “see” the world. Her artistic path spans decades of teaching, exhibiting, and exploring new
- [Aileen Lampman: Honoring Nature Through Metal, Stone, and Generations of Craft](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/aileen-lampman-honoring-nature-through-metal-stone-and-generations-of-craft/) - Aileen Lampman Members Exhibition Feature; For artist Aileen Lampman, jewelry is a way of preserving the beauty of the natural world in forms that can be held, worn, and treasured. Rooted in a family legacy of metalsmithing, Aileen continues to forge her work on her great-grandfather’s anvil, carrying forward both craft and memory with every
- [Joy Knepp: A Lifelong Journey in Craft, Color, and Community](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/joy-knepp-a-lifelong-journey-in-craft-color-and-community/) - Joy Knepp Members Exhibition Feature; For artist and educator Joy Knepp, Touchstone has been a creative home across decades — beginning in the 1970s when the organization was originally known as the Pioneer Crafts Council. Those early pottery workshops sparked a lifelong passion for craft, teaching, and exploration. In the 2025 Touchstone Members Exhibition, Joy’s
- [Danielle Crooks-Nyland: Illuminating the Unseen Through Color and Imagination](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/danielle-crooks-nyland-illuminating-the-unseen-through-color-and-imagination/) - Danielle Crooks-Nyland Members Exhibition Feature; For artist Danielle Crooks-Nyland, creating art is a way of joining a larger conversation — one shaped by curiosity, history, imagination, and community. In the 2025 Touchstone Members Exhibition, her piece “Chromatic Cosmonaut” brings together folklore, pulp-era sci-fi, and a vibrant neon palette to explore the tension between life, death,
- [Elizabeth Lawrence: Craft, Curiosity, and the Art of Piecing Things Together](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/elizabeth-lawrence-craft-curiosity-and-the-art-of-piecing-things-together/) - Elizabeth Lawrence Members Exhibition Feature For artist and researcher Elizabeth Lawrence, craft is a way of thinking — a blend of curiosity, problem-solving, and hands-on discovery. Her work in glass and ceramics reflects the mindset of someone who sees the world as a series of connections waiting to be uncovered. In the 2025 Touchstone Members
- [Fayette County's liberty bell to be unveiled in December](https://www.dailycourier.com/townnews/sculpture/fayette-countys-liberty-bell-to-be-unveiled-in-december/article_e1eea25b-75bc-42f2-964b-5334771d8f79.html) - The Daily Courier by Roxanne Abramowitz; The unveiling and public viewing will be held 10 a.m. Dec. 20 at the Fayette County Courthouse, said Dean Simpson, Touchstone Center for Crafts communications director. Simpson said from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 6, Touchstone in Farmington will host a Winter Showcase, where those interested can
- [Rebecca Frola-Biss: Finding Joy, Challenge, and a Little Bit of Alchemy in Clay](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/rebecca-frola-biss-finding-joy-challenge-and-a-little-bit-of-alchemy-in-clay/) - Rebecca Frola-Biss Members Exhibition Feature; For artist Rebecca Frola-Biss, clay is both a challenge and a playground. What began as a spontaneous date night at Touchstone quickly reignited her long-lost love for ceramics, setting her on a path of self-teaching, experimentation, and discovery. Now featured in the 2025 Touchstone Members Exhibition, Rebecca’s works celebrate curiosity,
- [Andrew Thornton: Finding Meaning and Strength Through Enamel and Self-Reflection](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/andrew-thornton-finding-meaning-and-strength-through-enamel-and-self-reflection/) - Andrew Thornton Members Exhibition Feature; For artist Andrew Thornton, creation is a form of self-discovery and dialogue — with his materials, his identity, and his community. As part of the 2025 Touchstone Members Exhibition, Andrew brings this spirit of exploration to two enameled self-portrait brooches that blend craftsmanship, symbolism, and personal reflection. His works, “Moving
- [Pittsburgh Festival of Combustion Brings Steel, Music, and Fireworks](https://countryherald.com/news/pittsburgh-festival-of-combustion-brings-steel-music-and-fireworks-saturday/#google_vignette) - Country Herald, by Sondai NaNaBuluku; The Heritage Craft Tent highlights festival partners including the Touchstone Center for Crafts, the Bradford House Museum, the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, Maxo Vanka Murals, and West Overton Village. These organizations tell the story of steel’s influence on the city’s growth and change in partnership with Rivers of Steel.
- [Pottery shop in Pleasant Unity noted as among nation's best in House Beautiful](https://community.triblive.com/news/3896871) - TtribLive, by Dirk Kaufman; A retired doctor who practiced obstetrics and gynecology, Francis DeFabo began taking pottery classes in Pittsburgh, Touchstone Center for Crafts in Fayette County and through private instructors to refine his interest in the craft.
- [Hammer-In to be held October 11 at Kentucky Museum](https://www.wku.edu/news/articles/index.php?view=article&articleid=12700) - Western Kentucky University News, by Tiffany Isselhardt; Jami Honey is a blacksmith and multidisciplinary artist who travels the world creating and teaching. They held artist residencies at the Metal Museum in Memphis, TN, and the Touchstone Center for Crafts in Pennsylvania.
- [Work on Fayette County's 'Liberty Bell' continues](https://www.dailycourier.com/news/work-on-fayette-countys-liberty-bell-continues/article_68e09409-f5a1-4d4e-b23d-58918a24d34f.html) - Daily Courier; by Roxanne Abramowitz... Touchstone Center for Crafts was asked by the committee coordinating events throughout the county for the anniversary if it would be willing to take the lead on the Liberty Bell project.
- [Bell Project Honors Regional History, From Indigenous Leaders to Industrial Legacies](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/bell-project-honors-regional-history-from-indigenous-leaders-to-industrial-legacies/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FARMINGTON, PA – A new public artwork honoring Fayette County, PA’s layered history is being created at Touchstone by the Falls, Touchstone Center for Crafts’ newly acquired location in Ohiopyle at 1 Sherman Street, the former Falls City Baptist Church. The public will have opportunities to learn about Pennsylvania’s Liberty Bell project
- [Touchstone Center for Crafts is an Arts Oasis](https://www.discovertheburgh.com/touchstone-center-for-crafts/) - Jeremy Jones, Discover the Burgh; Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington, PA, is an artist oasis in the heart of the Laurel Highlands, about 90 minutes outside of downtown Pittsburgh. After many years hearing about this one, we made our way down for a Friday Date Night ceramics class as guests of the center, and
- [Fiona Fayette making rounds in county](https://www.dailycourier.com/news/fiona-fayette-making-rounds-in-county/article_706742ee-19dd-4ab3-9cc6-97b453969b3e.html) - The Daily Courier by Paul S. Brittain; The Fayette County bell, provided through Bells Across PA, is currently being created by Touchstone Center for Crafts artist Jim Mochnsky. Salvo Strategies is the sponsor. Work on the bell is currently being done at the Touchstone location in the newly purchased building in Ohiopyle. An unveiling will
- [How This Ceramicist Finishes Her Work With Flames](https://food52.com/story/28862-all-fired-up-meghan-burke-studio-interview) - FOOD52 by Julia Youman; Originally from a coastal New Jersey town, Meghan has spent time living and doing residencies in natural gems like Maine, Colorado, and upstate New York—all of which shaped her connection to craft and nature. But it was outside Pittsburgh, at Touchstone Center for Crafts, that she discovered wood firing and has
- [Artists begin work on Fayette's commemorative Liberty Bell](https://www.dailycourier.com/news/artists-begin-work-on-fayettes-commemorative-liberty-bell/article_79ab83f5-c75e-42e7-9f6c-50afc7e1c9ea.html) - By ROXANNE ABRAMOWITZ; Touchstone Center for Crafts was asked by Fayette County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Muriel Nuttall if it would be willing to take the lead on the project.
- [Susan Pollins Obituary (1939 - 2025-07-15) - Greensburg, PA](https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/triblive-tribune-review/name/susan-pollins-obituary?id=58897497) - Susan Elizabeth Laansma Pollins, 85, of Greensburg, died peacefully at her daughter's home in Greensburg on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.
- [A Traditional Traveling Blacksmith in Sackets Harbor](https://www.newyorkalmanack.com/2025/07/sackets-harbor-traveling-blacksmit/) - New York Almanack; A full-time blacksmith, Jymm specializes in museum quality reproductions and custom orders. Ha has been featured multiple times in Early American Life’s “200 Best Craftsmen” magazine. He has taught at Pennsylvania’s Touchstone Center for the Crafts and New England School of Metalwork and demonstrates blacksmithing at historical re-enactments throughout the Northeast and
- [Western Reserve Artist Blacksmith Association reignites passion for blacksmithing](https://www.farmanddairy.com/news/western-reserve-artist-blacksmith-association-reignites-passion-for-blacksmithing/876927.html) - Farm and Dairy; by Liz Partsch - Marc Yanko, a member of the Western Reserve Artist Blacksmith Association and former instructor at Touchstone Center for Crafts, first met Koplik when she was an assistant at Touchstone. He still carries around a bottle opener she made for him back then.
- [CERF+ email newsletter; Touchstone Members ExhibitionCERF+ email newsletter](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/cerf-email-newsletter-touchstone-members-exhibitioncerf-email-newsletter/) - Touchstone Center for Crafts is celebrating the incredible talent and support of its creative community by showcasing the work of its members! The 2025 Touchstone Members Exhibition will run from October 11-December 20, 2025 and invites current members to submit work in any medium—ceramics, metals, glass, drawing, painting, and more. Selected works will be juried by Ruby
- [Springfield artist’s work chosen for international exhibition](https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/community/clark-champaign-county/springfield-artists-work-chosen-for-international-exhibition/XV3FTEB5M5G25AV54S4IHXAM3Y/) - By Brett Turner for Springfield News-Sun – Annette Eshelman’s needle-felted sculpture piece “Work Ethic” will be on display beginning June 20 through Aug. 30 at Brew House Arts as part of that distinguished exhibition. She was also asked to teach a one-week needle felted sculpture class at Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington, Pa. prior
- [Why Craft Schools Matter](https://untappedjournal.com/stories/why-craft-schools-matter) - Shared from Untapped Journal. Written by Michelle Millar Fisher Sites of craft education train and shape the makers we admire—and everyday people, too... "Primarily, people come to these sites to connect with others at smaller scale in organizations, classrooms, and domestic spaces engineered for closeness, not maximum capacity. There is a specific atmosphere created by sitting
- [Touchstone by the Falls: 2025 Community Pop-Up Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/touchstone-by-the-falls-2025-community-pop-up-events/) - Touchstone Center for Crafts is bringing creativity to the heart of Ohiopyle! Visit us at 1 Sherman Street (the former Falls City Church) for a free pop-up event series at the new home of Touchstone by the Falls—a space for art, creativity, and community connection. 2025 Pop-Up Dates:May 31 (past) | June 21 | July
- [The US Military and The Art of Grieving](https://sheilakcollins.substack.com/p/the-us-military-and-the-art-of-grieving?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=3514088&post_id=165945458&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=1jwvdh&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=email) - Written by Sheila K. Collins, PH.D. | More than parades and "thank you for your service," is needed to appreciate and support our veterans | "Meet Geoffrey Bowton, a combat veteran and artist who served as a U.S. Army Sargent in the middle east and who now uses his art to explore war, P.T.S.D, and
- [Instructor Feature: Cheryl Capezzuti by Lia Musante](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-cheryl-capezzuti-by-lia-musante/) - Make Wearable Puppets for your Community using Recycled Materials Written by Lia Musante, Touchstone Studio Management Intern 2025 Join sculptor and puppetmaker Cheryl Capezzuti in an upcoming five-day workshop in puppets perfect for inspiring those in your community or school. Capezzuti says “I love sharing the skills of making giant puppets with others, especially teachers.
- [Instructor Feature: Q and A with Lucas Pointon by Lia Musante](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-q-and-a-with-lucas-pointon-by-lia-musante/) - Meet Lucas Pointon, a jeweler and educator known for thoughtful preparation, deep technical knowledge, and a passion for expanding access to metalsmithing. Lucas will offer a five-day workshop, Fanciful Stone Setting, from July 14–18 at Touchstone Center for Crafts. In this Q&A—conducted by Lia Musante, Touchstone Studio Management Intern 2025—Lucas shares insights into teaching, studio
- [Instructor Feature: Zachery Lechtenberg by Lia Musante](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-zachery-lechtenberg-by-lia-musante/) - Experiments in connections and fabrication with Beads and Links Written by Lia Musante, Touchstone Studio Management Intern 2025 Creative approaches to designing, soldering, and cold-connecting linked components will be the focus of an upcoming jewelry workshop with illustrator, jeweler, and ceramicist Zachery Lechtenberg. Beads and links are “a way to experiment and get comfortable with
- [Cheers and Jeers from the week that was …](https://www.lewistownsentinel.com/opinion/editorials/2025/06/cheers-and-jeers-from-the-week-that-was/) - The Lewistown Sentinel. Cheer: A combat veteran from North Carolina is using art to help fellow veterans deal with trauma after their military service ends. Geoffrey Bowton, whose “Veteran Obsolete” gallery is on display at Touchstone Center for the Arts in Farmington, Fayette County, has been hosting therapeutic mask-making workshops where veterans are given a
- [Fayette celebrates Military Appreciation Month.](https://www.dailycourier.com/news/fayette-celebrates-military-appreciation-month/article_51fb4e62-959d-4351-96b3-42f61d33f190.html) - The Daily Courier. Fayette County is home to a large number of military personnel, both past and present, and towns and organizations throughout the county make sure to honor those servicemen and women at every opportunity. This year, both the county Veterans Affairs office in Uniontown and Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington held events
- [Hits & Misses.](https://www.observer-reporter.com/opinion/editorials/2025/may/30/hits-misses-46/) - Observer-Reporter Hit: A combat veteran from North Carolina is using art to help fellow veterans deal with trauma after their military service ends. Geoffrey Bowton, whose “Veteran Obsolete” gallery is on display at Touchstone Center for the Arts in Farmington, has been hosting therapeutic mask-making workshops where veterans are given a space and an opportunity
- [Instructor Feature: Nick Rossi](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-nick-rossi/) - Forging Confidence: Nick Rossi Breaks Down the Bladesmithing Barrier Forging a chef knife from raw steel might sound intimidating—but for Master Bladesmith Nick Rossi, that’s part of the appeal. “It’s a lot of physical effort, sort of like climbing a mountain,” he said, describing the forging process. “But when you get to the top, it’s
- [Instructor Feature: Q and A with Barbara McFadyen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-q-and-a-with-barbara-mcfadyen/) - This June, metalsmith and enamel artist Barbara McFadyen will offer a workshop at Touchstone that explores the expressive potential of vitreous enamel. With decades of experience and a deep connection to Western Pennsylvania, Barbara brings a thoughtful, exploratory approach to teaching and making. In this interview conducted by Touchstone board member and fellow metalsmith Andrew
- [Veterans search for peace in art](https://www.heraldstandard.com/news/local_news/2025/may/25/veterans-search-for-peace-in-art/) - Herald Standard; By Zach Petroff “I like doing art because it reminds me of being a soldier,” said Geoffrey Bowton, a combat veteran and artist whose work is currently being featured at Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington. “When I’m setting up for a show, it feels like I’m gearing up, ready to go.” Read more.
- [Artist Spotlight: Courtney Wilson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/artist-spotlight-courtney-wilson/) - By Little Rock Soirée Staff Wilson graduated in 2024 from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with her BFA in ceramics. She has attended Penland School of Craft in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, for the past two years as a winter resident and attended Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington, Pennsylvania, in 2024 as
- [The Figure in Craft Juried Exhibition - Touchstone Center for Crafts (Due June 15)](https://www.aapgh.org/artist-opportunities/2025/5/15/the-figure-in-craft-juried-exhibition-touchstone-center-for-crafts-due-june-15) - Touchstone Center for Crafts is thrilled to be hosting The Figure In Craft national juried exhibition. This exhibition explores the intricate intersection between figurative art and craft mediums, offering a curated selection of works that reflect the human figure, identity, and emotions through hands-on, traditional processes. Featuring a wide array of craft-based techniques, the show
- [Instructor Feature: Leslie Tharp](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-leslie-tharp/) - Forging Connections Through Nature and Metalwork Touchstone Center for Crafts will welcome Florida-based metal artist Leslie Tharp from June 16–20 for Entwined: Botanical Studies with a Focus on Connections, a beginner-friendly blacksmithing workshop that highlights both technical skills and personal expression through natural forms. Open to all levels, the five-day intensive invites participants to explore
- [Instructor Feature: Daniel Garver](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-daniel-garver/) - Continuing the Craft: A Ceramic Slipcasting Workshop for All Levels Discover the process of ceramic slipcasting—from idea to object—in a welcoming workshop designed for all levels. Whether you're new to ceramics or looking to expand your skills, North Carolina-based artist Daniel Garver’s upcoming workshop at Touchstone Center for Crafts offers an introduction to mold making
- [Instructor Feature: Annette Eshelman](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-annette-eshelman/) - Finding Comfort and Creativity Through Needle-Felted Figures Alyson Annette Eshelman knows how transformative artmaking can be. She’s seen it change perspectives, open up new pathways, and offer hope—especially for people who didn’t expect it. This summer, she brings that belief to Touchstone Center for Crafts with her Needle-Felted Figures workshop, running June 16–20. “This is
- [Instructor Feature: Joseph Cavalieri](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-joseph-cavalieri/) - Unlock New Techniques in ‘Imagery on Stained Glass’ with Joseph Cavalieri This June, Touchstone Center for Crafts welcomes a fresh opportunity for artists of all levels to learn and practice detailed imagery techniques on stained glass. Led by renowned New York-based artist and instructor Joseph Cavalieri, Imagery on Stained Glass runs June 16–20 at Touchstone’s
- [Shattered Symbols and Stories Of Strength: Veteran Art Exhibition by Geoffrey Bowton](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/shattered-symbols-and-stories-of-strength-veteran-art-exhibition-by-geoffrey-bowton/) - DATE: April 14, 2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE News from Touchstone Center for Crafts FARMINGTON, PA – Touchstone Center for Crafts presents Veteran Obsolete, an exhibition of works in glass by U.S. Army Sergeant and combat veteran Geoffrey Bowton, on view from May through July 26, 2025. Bowton draws inspiration from his military background
- [Instructor Feature: Erika Broas](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructor-feature-erika-broas/) - Erika Broas Returns to Touchstone to Lead Metals & Jewelry Workshop This June, metalsmith Erika Broas returns to Touchstone Center for Crafts to lead a five-day workshop in the Small Metals Studio, guiding participants through advanced techniques in ring fabrication. A former intern turned instructor, Erika brings a unique blend of technical expertise and community-building
- [American Craft Made Baltimore Returns!](https://www.citybiz.co/article/663065/american-craft-made-baltimore-returns-2/) - Feb. 19, 2025 - citybiz.com American Craft Made Baltimore is one of the most highly respected and anticipated craft fairs in the United States... Partner organizations such as the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), Peters Valley School of Craft, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), and Touchstone Center for Crafts.
- [15 Best Things to Do in Farmington, PA](https://www.travellens.co/best-things-to-do-in-farmington-pa/) - Jan. 14, 2025 - Travel Lens; by Blake Walsh Touchstone Center for Crafts is a nonprofit organization located near Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater, Ohiopyle State Park, and Nemacolin Resort. The center offers workshops for both beginners and advanced artists on ceramics, glassmaking, drawing, jewelry-making, and metalsmithing.
- [Pittsburgh: An Emerging Global Hub for Craft Excellence](https://www.pittsburghartscouncil.org/blog/pittsburgh-emerging-global-hub-craft-excellence) - Feb. 8, 2025 - Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council; by Patrick Fisher, CEO Pittsburgh’s location in Western Pennsylvania further strengthens its position as a craft hub. To the South East in Fayette County, Touchstone Center for Crafts stands as a serene retreat offering workshops and residencies for artists across the craft spectrum.
- [This event is lit: The Festival of Combustion](https://www.unionprogress.com/2024/10/03/this-event-is-lit-the-festival-of-combustion/) - Oct 3, 2024 - Pittsburgh Union Progress; By Bob Batz Jr. A Heritage Craft Tent will offer hands-on heritage from Touchstone Center for Crafts, the Bradford House Historical Association, the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, and the Society for the Preservation of the Millvale Murals of Maxo Vanka.
- [Laurel Highlands celebrates tourism](https://www.dailycourier.com/news/laurel-highlands-celebrates-tourism/article_d642dadc-1f6a-11ef-8f24-e3337e1b2ebd.html) - May 31, 2024 - The Daily Courier Laurel Highlands, PA “Our exhibitions consistently draw audiences from Canada and across the United States,” Simpson said. “While visiting, attendees explore local attractions, stay at nearby accommodations, and take advantage of dining and Pour Tour opportunities. Our instructors and participants often return to the area to visit again after
- [AUBÖCK: THE GALLET COLLECTION](https://fallingwater.org/installations/aubock-the-gallet-collection/) - June 7, 2024 - Fallingwater In conjunction with Touchstone Center for Craft’s exhibition Auböck: The Gallet Collection, which runs from May 4 to July 28, 2024, an installation of select works is on display throughout Fallingwater. These works represent five generations of the internationally renowned Werkstäte Carl Auböck, located in Vienna, Austria, and in operation for
- [Laurel Highlands named Preferred Vacation Destination Parter of Pittsburgh Steelers](https://www.dailycourier.com/news/laurel-highlands-named-preferred-vacation-destination-parter-of-pittsburgh-steelers/article_dc07a994-3558-11ef-8fdd-bf219c2602f4.html) - June 28, 2024 - Daily Courier Fallingwater, which has been named the best all-time work of American architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of four Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes in the region, with Kentuck Knob and Polymath Park boasting the others. The Westmoreland Museum of American Art and Touchstone Center for Crafts are leading cultural
- [Theda Sandiford Artist Talk 2 September 2024](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iNvIn2qCzM) - September 24, 2024 - YouTube; Farmington, PA Watch this recorded artist talk with Theda Sandiford from Tuesday, September 24, at Touchstone Center for Crafts. Theda shares the stories behind her impactful textile installation, Free Your Mind, highlighting personal experiences with microaggressions. Listen in as she discusses her creative process and how art can address social issues. You'll
- [Gallery and Campus Tour with PA State Rep. Charity Grimm Krupa](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/gallery-and-campus-tour-with-pa-state-rep-charity-grimm-krupa/) - July 2, 2024 - Facebook Before crunch time for the state budget, I got the chance to tour Touchstone Center for Crafts in Wharton Township! Touchstone attracts artists from across the country with top-tier art education opportunities and workshops, along with an expertly curated gallery and a rare and highly specialized kiln.Check out this video to
- [Passions from Childhood](https://buckscountymag.com/Community/passions-from-childhood/) - September, 2024 - Bucks County Magazine; By Cynthia Marone The Laurel Highlands in southwestern Pennsylvania may be Lindsay Ketterer Gates’ home now, but the seeds of her life there were planted in Bucks County. Her encouragement to pursue the arts, her passion for the natural world, her flair for the analytical and her unique perspective that
- [Teaching Mokume Gane at Touchstone](https://www.annevillestudio.com/blog/teaching-mokume-gane-at-touchstone) - July 9, 2024 - annevillestudio.com I've recently returned from five fabulous days teaching at Touchstone Center for Crafts in Western Pennsylvania. They have an extensive campus; besides my mokume gane box making class, there was a blacksmithing class, ceramics, and textiles.Read More...
- [Flex your creative muscles at Touchstone's Center for Crafts date night](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/flex-your-creative-muscles-at-touchstones-center-for-crafts-date-night/) - Flex your creative muscles at Touchstone's Center for Crafts date night
- [Veterans marathon raises more than $10,000](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/veterans-marathon-raises-more-than-10000/) - November 13, 2023 - The Daily Courier Connellsville, PA - Written by By Paul S. Brittain Clear skies and cool temperatures greeted participants Sunday for the third annual Fayette County Veterans Marathon Relay held at Brownsville Area High School. Fayette County Commissioner Scott Dunn served as chairman and master of ceremonies for the event, which benefits veterans’
- [In the Spotlight | Potter in Uptown Somerset has a passion for mud](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/in-the-spotlight-potter-in-uptown-somerset-has-a-passion-for-mud/) - November 25, 2023 - The Tribune-Democrat Somerset, PA - By Kelly Urban Rebecca Frola-Biss has a passion for mud... a visit a few years ago to Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington, Fayette County, ignited her desire to create art again... Read more...
- [GO Laurel Highlands Adventure Series - Touchstone Center For Crafts - Campus Tour and Date Night](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/go-laurel-highlands-adventure-series-touchstone-center-for-crafts-campus-tour-and-date-night/) - November 15, 2023 - YouTube Laurel Highlands, PA Join Touchstone's Marketing Manager, Dean Simpson, and Kelli Brisbane, Director of Partnership Development at Go Laurel Highlands, as they explore Touchstone's campus and studios. The tour concludes with a special Date Night experience, during which Kelli and her husband, Dash, embark on a mosaic project guided by the
- [Between 2 Rivers tour to showcase local artists in Fayette County](https://observer-reporter.com/between-2-rivers-tour-to-showcase-local-artists-in-fayette-county/article_1dbee176-3c36-11ee-a2e9-f72a28f9733e.html) - Fayette County, PA - The tour is made possible through a collaborative effort between Touchstone Center for Crafts, National Road Heritage Corridor and Fayette County Community Action Agency. By joining forces, the organizations aim to foster artistic appreciation and support within the community...

## Pages

- [Home Page](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/) - Touchstone Center for Crafts is nestled within 230 acres of lush woodlands, just 60 miles south of Pittsburgh in the scenic Laurel Highlands. Our campus features fully equipped studios, professional exhibition galleries, on-site lodging, and is surrounded by towering trees, rushing streams, and the calming sights and sounds of nature—creating the ideal setting to explore, create, and expand your artistic skills. We offer immersive craft workshops in blacksmithing, ceramics, metals and jewelry, and other special topic areas from June through September. Scholarships and Internships are available. In addition to our main campus, we are excited to expand programming into nearby Ohiopyle through Touchstone by the Falls—a new space designed to increase accessibility and foster deeper creative engagement throughout the region.
- [Our People](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/about/our-people/) - Our Staff Our staff are guided by their passion for the arts and work hard to ensure a top-notch participant experience and the strategic development and growth of the organization. ​Get in Touch for Quick Assistance Please contact the office regarding questions about registration, lodging, meals, or cancellations. This is the fastest point of contact
- [2026 Touchstone Members Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/exhibitions/2026-touchstone-members-exhibition/) - OCTOBER 17 - DECEMBER 20, 2026 We're celebrating the incredible talent and support of our creative community! Touchstone Center for Crafts is pleased to present the 2026 Touchstone Members Juried Exhibition, an annual showcase celebrating the creativity, craftsmanship, and artistic excellence of our member community. This exhibition highlights the remarkable talent of our members while
- [Calls for Artists](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/opportunities/calls-for-artists/) - OCTOBER 17 - DECEMBER 20, 2026 Annual Touchstone Members Exhibition A juried exhibition that celebrates the incredible talent and support within our creative community by showcasing the work of our members. Click here to apply. Learn More Application deadline: September 1. To learn more about Membership opportunities and benefits, visit our Membership page and become
- [2026 Touchstone Teen Week Showcase](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/exhibitions/2026-touchstone-teen-week-showcase/) - AUGUST 8 - OCTOBER 3, 2026 Closing Reception: Saturday, October 3Noon - 2:00 p.m. The 2026 Teen Week Exhibition at Touchstone Center for Crafts celebrates the creativity, talent, and diversity of this year’s Teen Week Program. Featuring works by both participants and instructors, the exhibition showcases the remarkable range of artwork created throughout the program.
- [Exhibitions](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/exhibitions/) - 2026 Exhibition Schedule Bea Campbell Gallery in Blaney Lodge1049 Wharton Furnace Road, Farmington, PA May 11–July 25America 250: Craft TodayNational Juried Exhibition August 2–October 3Instructors of Touchstone August 2–October 32026 Touchstone Teen Week Showcase October 17–December 20Annual Touchstone Members ExhibitionJuried Exhibition Offsite exhibition at Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater August 29–September 30Touchstone/Fallingwater Resident Exhibition Artist: Mike
- [Donate](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/support/donate/) - Touchstone for All Donate Online Donate by Mail Creative Opportunity Fund HEADER Link or learn more HEADER Link or learn more HEADER Link or learn more Touchstone for All Campaign From a first-time visitor trying something new to an artist pursuing mastery, Touchstone Center for Crafts creates opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds
- [2026 Instructors of Touchstone Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/exhibitions/2026-instructor-exhibition/) - AUGUST 8 - OCTOBER 3, 2026 Closing Reception: Saturday, October 3Noon - 2:00 p.m. The 2026 Instructor Exhibition at Touchstone Center for Crafts showcases the creativity, talent, and technical expertise of this year’s workshop instructors. Featuring works by accomplished artists from across the country, the exhibition highlights the diverse range of contemporary craft and fine
- [America 250: Craft Today](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/exhibitions/america-250-craft-today/) - America 250: Craft Today MAY 11 - JULY 25, 2026 Gallery Reception: Saturday, May 23, noon to 2 p.m. Touchstone Center for Crafts presents America 250: Craft Today, a national juried exhibition celebrating the best of American contemporary craft. Showcasing exceptional work by leading and emerging artists from across the country, the exhibition highlights innovation,
- [Fallingwater-Touchstone Artist Residency](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/exhibitions/fallingwater-touchstone-artist-residency/) - Fallingwater Institute + Touchstone Center for Crafts Artist-in-Residence Program In honor of Fallingwater’s 90th Anniversary and Handwork 2026, Fallingwater Institute + Touchstone Center for Crafts is thrilled to announce the creation of a collaborative artist in residence program. Artists working in all media are encouraged to apply for this exciting new residency opportunity. The Kaufmann
- [Contact Us](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/contact/) - Our Staff Our staff are guided by their passion for the arts and work hard to ensure a top-notch participant experience and the strategic development and growth of the organization. Temporary Email Notice: Some Touchstone email accounts may be experiencing technical issues. If you recently sent us an email and have not yet received a
- [Membership](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/support/membership/) - Belong to the Creative Ecosystem Touchstone Center for Crafts is a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to advancing excellence in the arts and crafts through education, creative opportunity, and community engagement. When you become a Touchstone member, you are supporting artists, sustaining craft education, and helping make creative experiences accessible—across all Touchstone programs and locations. Our
- [Legacy Society](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/support/legacy-society/) - The Touchstone Legacy Society was established in 2022 to celebrate our history and ensure our sustainability. Legacy Society Membership begins with documenting an existing provision for Touchstone in your estate plans or creating a new intention. There are no giving minimums or percentages required to join. Document or create an estate plan for Touchstone by 12/31/2022,
- [Contributors](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/support/contributors/) - Touchstone is grateful to receive support from numerous contributors, foundations, individual donors, and members who make gifts (and a difference). Information Coming Soon Touchstone sincerely thanks the individual donors, members, and volunteers whose generosity of time, expertise, and resources make the artistic, educational, and outreach programs possible. Contributions are tax-deductible in accordance with applicable law.
- [Touchstone for All](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/support/touchstoneforall/) - Expanding Access and Deepening Creativity A first-time visitor tries something new. A family or group creates together. An artist deepens their practice. Each of these experiences reflects the vision of Touchstone for All: a pathway that begins with curiosity and can grow into a lifetime of creativity. Demand for hands-on creative experiences continues to grow,
- [Pledge Form](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/support/pledge-form/)
- [Donation Form](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/support/donation-form/)
- [Retail Gallery](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/retail-gallery/) - Exhibition Gallery & Office Hours: We are closed on all U.S. federal holidays. Exhibition Gallery Hours (Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington):Open to visitors Tuesday–Friday, 11 AM–4 PM or by appointment. Retail Gallery Hours (Touchstone by the Falls in Ohiopyle):Our retail gallery is now located at Touchstone by the Falls, 1 Sherman Street in Ohiopyle,
- [What to Know](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/experiences/what-to-know/) - Workshop Hours & Programming Schedule Occasional schedule adjustments may occur. Staff and instructors will often be found in studios throughout the evenings but are not obligated to be present outside of posted instruction hours. Studios may not be used outside of regularly scheduled instruction and/or open studio hours. Weekly Silent Auctions These fun, informal weekly
- [Getting Here](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/getting-here/) - Directions to Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington 1049 Wharton Furnace Rd.Farmington, PA 15437 Road Closure: Wharton Furnace Road is closed for bridge repairs between Touchstone and Rt. 40 near the summit. Please do not attempt to reach Touchstone via Wharton Furnace or Fayette Springs. GPS may not reflect the closure, and there is limited
- [Meals & Lodging](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/experiences/meals-lodging/) - MEALS Putting in studio time always builds up a good appetite. Learn more about our meal plan offerings, served in our Dining Hall, for the duration of your workshop. LODGING Get away from the daily routine and stay on our campus surround by lush forest. Learn more about your options lodging with us on our
- [Jobs/Volunteer](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/opportunities/jobs-volunteer/) - Job Openings There are no open job opportunities at this time. Now Hiring: Touchstone by the Falls Site Manager Posted: 4/29/26About Touchstone Center for CraftsTouchstone Center for Crafts is a nationally recognized nonprofit with a 53-year history of supporting artists, creative entrepreneurs, and craft education. Touchstone’s main campus is located in Farmington, PA, but Touchstone
- [Workshops](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/experiences/workshops/) - 2026 Workshops Workshops are offered from June through September. Register early! Multi-day workshops are confirmed or canceled three weeks in advance. Touchstone workshops offer a range of creative experiences for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced makers. Explore 5-day and weekend workshops, community classes, and kids’ programming, or try something new with a date
- [Our History](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/about/our-history/) - About Touchstone Center for Crafts Touchstone Center for Crafts is nestled within 230 acres of lush woodlands, just 60 miles south of Pittsburgh in the scenic Laurel Highlands. Our campus features fully equipped studios, professional exhibition galleries, on-site lodging, and is surrounded by towering trees, rushing streams, and the calming sights and sounds of nature—creating the
- [Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/events/) - 2026 Events Please check back for additional events as plans become available. FARMINGTON, PA America 250: Craft Today Gallery ReceptionSaturday, May 23, Noon to 2:00 p.m.Bea Campbell Gallery, Farmington, PA LOCATION: Touchstone Center for Crafts1049 Wharton Furnace RoadFarmington, PA 15437 BY THE FALLS IN OHIOPYLE, PA 2026 Ohiopyle Maker Days Schedule 11:00 a.m. – 4:00
- [Residencies](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/opportunities/residencies/) - 2026 Touchstone Artist-in-Residence Touchstone Center for Crafts Artist-in-Residence Program offers a unique environment for artists and makers to live and work within a creative community. For this program we are looking for self-motivated individuals who are seeking the time, space, and equipment to focus on their studio practice in the company of fellow artists and
- [Internships](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/opportunities/internships/) - Seasonal Internships Touchstone’s Summer Internship Program is an intensive 10-25 week work-study program where emerging artists, graduate, and undergraduate students learn studio management and operations while refining their artistic skills and working with some of the country’s best artists. Two categories of studio interns are available based on skill level and equipment familiarity. In addition,
- [Scholarships](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/opportunities/scholarships/) - Touchstone scholarships provide opportunities for many deserving individuals of all skill levels, ages, and backgrounds to attend workshops each year. While financial need is often a factor in allocating these funds, Touchstone is also dedicated to ensuring that artistic merit and intensity of interest are seriously considered. Incomplete application packages will NOT be reviewed. Scholarship
- [2026 Touchstone Teen Week](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/teen-week/) - Create, connect, and grow in a creative community! Teen WeekJuly 13-17 5-DAYS (MONDAY-FRIDAY)$1350 All-Inclusive FeeScholarships availableNo Experience Needed! Learn More Participants will: Attend a five-day interactive workshop Extend their creative potential Work with other students from around the region Experience art in an immersive environment inspired by nature Why Participate? Meet other students from the
- [Touchstone Experience](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/touchstone-experience/) - Stay in "Touch" Join our "Teasel" email newsletter list EXPERIENCES Date Nights Multi-day Workshops Creative Retreats On-Campus Lodging and Meals LEARN MORE OPPORTUNITIES Scholarships Internships Artist Residencies Juried Exhibitions LEARN MORE Follow us on social media
- [Born in Fire Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/sparc-born-in-fire-exhibition/) - AUGUST 2–OCTOBER 4 An Exhibition of Contemporary BIPOC Metal Artists Touchstone Center for Crafts is thrilled to be hosting Born in Fire, an exhibition featuring works from Smiths for Promotion of Accessibility, Representation, and Community (SPARC). national juried exhibition. This exhibition highlights the artistry and innovation of BIPOC metalworkers, showcasing a diverse range of functional
- [2024 Auböck: The Gallet Collection Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/2024-aubock-gallet-collection-exhibition/) - Special Exhibition Events SATURDAY, MAY 18, 2024: Luncheon & Panel Discussion An enjoyable afternoon gathering of friends, delicious food, and engaging conversation. Meet and mingle with panel participants, including members of the Auböck and Gallet families, Fallingwater Director and Vice President of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy Justin Gunther, and Executive Director of The Irving and
- [2024 Intern Exhibition | Tessellate: Fitting Together](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/2024-intern-exhibition/) - OCT 5 - DEC 20, 2024 Touchstone provides seasonal internship opportunities for emerging artists to live, work, and create on its beautiful 230-acre campus. Throughout their stay, interns are fully immersed and inspired by the ever-changing creative community of the craft school environment. This annual exhibition showcases the Touchstone internship experience by presenting the works
- [Free Your Mind at Touchstone 2024](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/free-your-mind-at-touchstone/) - How microaggressions are like mosquito bites. To learn more about Implicit Bias. Take the Quiz To identify your own biases, take Harvard’s Implicit Association Test. Your results might surprise you! Click to Start
- [2024 Instructor Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/2024-instructor-exhibition/) - AUG. 3 - SEPT. 29, 2024 This exhibition showcases the creativity, talent, and technical expertise of our 2024 workshop instructors. These professional, accomplished artists are invited from across the country to lead our workshops and successfully develop the skillsets of our workshop participants. A sampling of their works will include mediums of which are taught
- [2024 Distinctive Drinkware Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/2024-distinctive-drinkware-exhibition/) - AUG. 3 - SEPT. 29, 2024 Through the exploration of utilitarian drinkware, our 2nd annual national juried exhibition serves as a stage to enhance the modern day ritual of crafting and enjoying your favorite beverages! The focus of Distinctive Drinkware is on the function and concept of not only the drinking vessel, but also the
- [2024 Annual Open House](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/2024-annual-open-house/) - Saturday, June 1, 2024 11am-4pm Touchstone invites you to get creative on our campus at our annual Open House! This free, family-friendly event is THE day to visit Touchstone, where you can learn about our seasonal workshops and date nights, tour studios, watch artist demonstrations, shop artist pop-up shops, view gallery exhibitions, hear more about
- [2025 Touchstone Members Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/2025-touchstone-members-exhibition/) - OCTOBER 11 - DECEMBER 20, 2025 We're celebrating the incredible talent and support of our creative community! The 2025 Touchstone Members Exhibition showcases the outstanding work of our members across a variety of mediums — including ceramics, metals, glass, drawing, painting, and more. All exhibiting pieces were selected by invited juror Ruby Lopez Harper and
- [Allegheny Metals Collective Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/allegheny-metals-collective-exhibition/) - OCTOBER 11–DECEMBER 20 Ten X Ten X Ten Final day to visit the exhibition is December 19, 2025. Allegheny Metals Collective 10th Anniversary Exhibition The Allegheny Metals Collective is celebrating its 10th anniversary. To commemorate ten years, we challenged our members to create a new piece/s of artwork that fits in a 10 X 10
- [Veteran Obsolete | Geoffrey Bowton](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/veteran-obsolete-geoffrey-bowton/) - MAY 3 - JULY 26, 2025 An exhibition of works in glass by U.S. Army Sergeant and combat veteran, Geoffrey Bowton. Geoffrey draws inspiration from his military background and deployment experiences in the Middle East in his studio practice. His work delves into the complexities of war, post-traumatic stress, and mental wellness, offering a profound
- [The Figure in Craft Juried Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/the-figure-in-craft-juried-exhibition/) - AUG. 2 - Oct. 4, 2025 Touchstone Center for Crafts is thrilled to be hosting The Figure In Craft national juried exhibition. This exhibition explores the intricate intersection between figurative art and craft mediums, offering a curated selection of works that reflect the human figure, identity, and emotions through hands-on, traditional processes. Featuring a wide
- [Opportunities](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/opportunities/)
- [Experiences](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/experiences/)
- [About](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/about/)
- [Visit](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/)
- [Support](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/support/)
- [Instructors](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/about/instructors/) - Our national instructors are dedicated to the growth and learning of our participants and carefully selected for both their artistic and instruction skills. Instructors travel to campus for the duration of their workshop before heading back to their own home and studio practice.
- [Our Mission](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/about/our-mission/) - Touchstone Center for Crafts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance excellence in the arts and crafts by educating and encouraging individuals to develop technical skills, good design, and innovative expression. Touchstone Center for Crafts condemns all acts of racism, discrimination, and senseless violence. We firmly believe that everyone has a right
- [Group Retreats Information](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/experiences/group-retreats/group-retreats-more-info/) - Experiences for Groups - 2025 Plan your perfect creative escape at Touchstone—customized group retreats offer access to studios, lodging, meals, and unforgettable experiences. Gather friends, colleagues, students, or other creatives for a memorable retreat. For a limited time, book your retreat in May and take 25% off. Special pricing is given to school groups, first
- [Group Retreats](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/experiences/group-retreats/) - RETREAT to the natural beauty of our campus! Our campus includes professional studios, public galleries, and residential facilities on 230 acres of lush woodlands and pristine wilderness in Farmington, PA. Take a guided campus tour and immerse your group in craft by participating in one of our creative experience offerings in blacksmithing, ceramics, drawing/painting, or
- [Campus Info](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/experiences/campus-info/) - Studio Spaces
- [Mailing List](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/contact/mailing-list/) - Subscribe to our Teasel e-newsletter for updates delivered to your inbox. Browse our 2025 Workshop Catalog Online...
- [Things to Do](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/visit/things-to-do/) - Visit GO Laurel Highlands Surround yourself with the natural beauty of Laurel Highlands, PA. Hiking, camping, and visiting historic sites are all part of the family-filled fun. THINGS TO DO PLACES TO STAY Explore the National Road Heritage Corridor The National Road Heritage Corridor tells the story of the 90 miles of the Road that cut
- [Workshops](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/experiences/workshop-calendar/)

## Instructors

- [Dean Simpson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/dean-simpson-2/) - Dean Simpson is a creative artist, arts marketer, and experienced educator. A lifelong learner, Dean studied Fine Arts at Indiana University of PA; Visual Communication at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh; Painting and Art History in Pavia, Italy; and holds a Master of Arts degree in Communication Technology from Point Park University. Throughout his career,
- [Heather Nuber](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/heather-nuber/) - Heather Nuber is an interdisciplinary artist/instructor with a focus in contemporary jewelry, textiles, and installation art. She received her MFA from Indiana University, and BFA in Metalsmithing from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. She studied at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, Penland School of Craft, Peters Valley School of Craft, and Touchstone Center for Crafts. Heather
- [Kensuke Yamada](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/kensuke-yamada/)
- [Travis Winters](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/travis-winters-2/) - Travis Winters is a ceramic artist and Programs Director at Touchstone Center for Crafts. Working primarily with animals and figures, he creates figures based on mundane day-to-day life, past struggles and real people. An MFA graduate from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Winters exhibits work nationally and has shown at Baltimore Clayworks in Baltimore, MD, The
- [Phil Ashworth](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/phil-ashworth/) - After graduating from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2008 with a BFA in illustration, Phil Ashworth went to NYC to chase that big city dream. Since then his work has appeared in books, magazines, posters, skateboards, apparel, and in various galleries throughout the US. His illustrations Have been recognized by American Illustration, Society
- [Andrew J. Welton](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/dr-andrew-welton/) - After growing up in Pittsburgh steel country, Andrew Welton went to grad school where they spent a decade studying the archaeology of medieval blacksmithing (specifically, of spearheads!). Dr. Welton has measured and photographed hundreds of medieval iron artifacts in European museums, and they use this knowledge to create historical reproductions as well as historically inspired
- [Kristen Muscaro-Winters](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/kristen-muscaro-winters/) - A National Board-certified Art Teacher
- [Maria Camera-Smith](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/maria-camera-smith/) - Maria Camera-Smith is a metalsmith and enamelist whose work focuses on nostalgia, identity, and body adornment. Her works are made with contemporary metalsmithing techniques, precious materials and enamel. She is currently a jeweler for Skelton Jewelry Design. Camera-Smith is one of three winners of the Preziosa Young 2023-2024 International Jewellery Design Competition in Florence, Italy.
- [Arthur Gibson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/arthur-gibson/) - Arthur Gibson is a recent MFA graduate from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee's recently established blacksmithing program as well as a BFA graduate from Southern Illinois University's blacksmithing program. Additionally, they have previously been an intern at Touchstone working in the Hart Moore Blacksmith Studio. Their work focuses on functional items such as household hardware
- [Maggie Boyd](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/maggie-boyd/) - Maggie Boyd is a Canadian artist living and working in NYC. Her work is an exploration of the place where drawing and ceramics meet. She has worked with ceramics for over twenty years and exhibited and taught internationally. Her work and writing about clay have been featured in Pottery Making Illustrated among other publications. Her
- [Sarita Westrup](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/sarita-westrup/) - Sarita Westrup was raised in south Texas and earned an MFA in Fiber from the University of North Texas in 2016. Her work has been shown in “The Weight of Wonder” at the Penland Gallery (NC), “Holding Space: Woven Works” at Chautauqua Institution (NY), and "Flow States - La Trienal" at El Museo del Barrio
- [Jessica Tsai](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/jessica-tsai/) - Jessica Tsai is a Taiwanese-American glassblower and fabricator based in Philadelphia. She earned her BFA in sculpture from the Rhode Island School of Design. In 2019 she was introduced to glass and attended Salem Community College to complete the Scientific Glass Technology program. Her work is primarily flameworked borosilicate glass, ranging from sculpture to jewelry
- [Jina Seo](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/jina-seo/) - Jina Seo (b. South Korea) is an artist and educator, serving as Associate Professor at Missouri State University. Her work explores connections between the body, clothing, sexuality, fetish, and space. She received an MFA from the University of Illinois and a BFA from Kookmin University, Seoul. A board member of the Society of North American
- [Lynette Youson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/lynette-youson/) - Lynette Youson, a fifth-generation basket weaver who lives in the low country of South Carolina, dedicates her time as an afterschool instructor teaching sweetgrass basket weaving to students. Lynette has weaved for over 50 years with her mother and remembers fondly learning from her great-grandmother; carrying on the tradition, she has taught her daughters and
- [Freddie Bainbridge](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/freddie-bainbridge/) - Freddie Bainbridge is a Pittsburgh-based encaustic artist, storyteller, and survivor whose work blends photography, wax, pigment, and memory into luminous contemporary icons. Drawing from four decades of lived experience-from the AIDS epidemic in New York to the rebirth of his creative voice-he creates “memory vessels” that fuse history, architecture, and personal narrative into tactile, ethereal
- [Liana Agnew](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/liana-agnew/) - Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, Liana Agnew has found the means of making through clay to be an integral part of life. Currently, Liana works full time as the Director of Artistic Advancement at Sweetwater Center for the Arts in Sewickley, PA, helping to create opportunities for artists and broaden the artistic reach within
- [Samantha Oliver](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/samantha-oliver-2/) - After graduating with her BFA from Winthrop University in 2013, Sam Oliver attended a short-term residency at William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA. Afterwards, she completed a year and a half long residency at The Bascom: Center for Visual Arts in Highlands, NC, then moving to Pennsylvania for a six-month residency at Brockway Center for
- [Kim Thomas](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/kim-thomas/) - Mr. Kim Thomas has spent over 40 years mastering the classical techniques and design principles of European ironwork. His extensive experience includes numerous successful restorations of historic masterworks, including pieces by renowned blacksmith Samuel Yellin. Throughout his career, Kim has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of European aesthetics, skillfully integrating them into projects where authenticity
- [Celeste Flores](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/celeste-flores/) - Celeste Flores is a Bay Area artist blacksmith known for her elegant, sculptural metalwork that bridges art and function. After earning her BFA in Sculpture from the Academy of Art University, she trained under Chris Niemer at The Crucible, where she later taught for more than a decade. Her work has been featured in Make
- [Pete Braspenninx](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/pete-braspenninx/) - Pete Braspenninx, owner of Phyre Forge is a graduate of the university of Michigan school of art and design. (2004) he is an artist, blacksmith and educator based in Michigan. His work has been shown, published and collected nationally and internationally. His work focuses on using traditional methods to make modern forms.
- [Maureen Duffy](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/maureen-duffy/) - Maureen Duffy is a studio jewelry artist and educator based in Philadelphia, PA. She currently serves as an ¾ time professor of Jewelry and Metalsmithing at Rowan University in New Jersey and a jewelry instructor at Fleisher Art Memorial, one of the country’s oldest art centers, where she has played a key role in developing
- [Tyler Gedman](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/tyler-gedman/) - At its essence, Tyler’s work is about showing the unconventional beauty of ordinary life, usually due to dramatic light and shadow. He works in a methodology known as "Plein Air," which he defines as, all painting or sketching that uses the natural world as a reference. Working this way, rather than relying on a photograph,
- [Curt LaCross](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/curt-lacross/) - Curt LaCross is an artist interested in figurative sculpture. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1995 from Central Michigan University. He received a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Ceramics from Michigan State University in 1997. Curt’s work initially began with the thrown structure. As his work progressed, it evolved into the
- [Gillan Doty](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/gillan-doty/) - Gillan Doty was raised in the Northeast, spending time in both the Adirondacks in New York and the Monadnock region of New Hampshire. Gillan discovered clay in high school and went on to receive a BFA in Ceramics from the Maine College of Art in Portland, Maine. After graduating he was awarded several residencies including
- [Derek Decker](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/derek-decker/) - Derek is a ceramic sculptor who earned his B.F.A. from Indiana University- Fort Wayne, and earned his M.F.A. from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. Derek has been an apprentice at Moravian Pottery and Tiles Works in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, a Kiln God resident at Watershed, Center for the Ceramic Arts in New Castle, Maine, and an Artist-In-Residence/
- [Gasali Adeyemo](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/gasali-adeyemo/) - Gasali Adeyemo is the third born of five from the small village, Ofatedo, located in Nigeria. His mother was his first and most important teacher in learning the traditional arts of the Yoruba Tribe. In 1990, Gasali attended the Nike Center for Arts and Culture, where he remained for a total of six years studying
- [Glen Gardner](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/glen-gardner/) - Early in his career, Glen Gardner had decided that working with metal would be his life pursuit. For more than 50 years, he has been exploring the techniques, histories, and science of metal working, and is now focused on raising holloware. Essentially, the art of "raising" is an ancient hammering method which allows flat sheets
- [Leah MacDonald](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/leah-macdonald/) - Leah Macdonald makes her portraits into artifacts, one-of-a-kind conceptions that suggest the imperfection and multiplicity of memory. The heart of her mixed media work, a poignant sense of visitation and return. Her passion is sharing her art and creativity with others through teaching workshops, art exhibitions and her prolific internet portfolios. Her new technique “photogestic”
- [Joy Knepp](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/joy-knepp/) - Joy Knepp has been working in glass for 20 years and is a retired visual arts educator. She has studied glass techniques at Touchstone, Pittsburgh Glass Center, The Studio at Corning Museum of Glass, Goggleworks, in Reading, PA and various other glass workshops around the country. She exhibits her work locally and regionally. As a
- [Ryan Myers](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/ryan-myers/) - Ryan was raised on cartoons and comic books, superheroes and villains. He grew up around Native American artifacts and American and learned to appreciate the intimate qualities of aged objects: the textures of rusty iron and crawling paint on old furniture, and even the musty smell of ripened books and magazines. Things that come with
- [Rachel Kedinger](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/rachel-kedinger/) - Rachel Kedinger is an artist from Wisconsin currently living in Philadelphia Pennsylvania creating her own work along with local museums, organizations and businesses to promote craft and design within a community setting. Rachel primarily makes objects out of metal with a focus on utilitarian use. Rachel has taught workshops at various crafts schools including Haystack
- [Heather Liverman](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/heather-liverman/) - Heather Liverman discovered metalsmithing while studying archaeology at Coastal Carolina University, where she earned her bachelor's degree. After graduating, she continued to hone her craft focusing primarily on, hand-fabrication using traditional techniques including angle raising, forging, and chasing and repoussé. Liverman is currently pursuing her MFA in Jewelry and Metalsmithing at Towson University, where her
- [Beth deVitry](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/beth-devitry/) - Beth deVitry, an enamel artist based in Lancaster Pennsylvania, has honed her craft through diverse experiences. After earning her BFA at Maryland Institute College of Art, she apprenticed under a German-trained goldsmith. Over the course of 25 years, she worked as a jewelry designer in the retail world, while simultaneously maintaining her own jewelry practice.
- [Andrew Thornton](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/andrew-thornton/) - Andrew Thornton is a professional fine artist, trained at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. He is a mixed-media artist who works in painting, collage, metalsmithing, and jewelry. His work explores identity through magical realism and fantasy. Andrew is the Co-Owner and Creative Director of Allegory Gallery in Johnstown, PA. Allegory Gallery
- [Eric Burris](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/eric-burris/) - Eric has been working with metal and teaching others the craft for over two decades. Currently serving as the Metals Studio Coordinator at Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft in Columbia, North Carolina, he holds an MFA in Metals & Jewelry from Arizona State University. During his graduate studies, he specialized in the Japanese technique
- [Laura Mochales](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/laura-mochales/) - Laura Mochales is a multidisciplinary artist and furniture maker whose practice bridges wood, metal, glass, and jewelry techniques. Guided by a deep curiosity for materials, she explores the intersections between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, experimenting with innovative methods to bring color and narrative into functional objects. Born in Chile and based between Latin America
- [Zachery Lechtenberg](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/zachery-lechtenberg/) - Zachery Lechtenberg is an artist based in Quincy, IL. He attended Southern Illinois University Edwardsville for his undergraduate and East Carolina University for his masters where he focused on enameling and jewelry. Since graduating his work has expanded to ceramics, woodworking and anything else he can apply his imagery to. Zachery finds inspiration in low
- [Ashley Gilreath](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/ashley-gilreath/) - Ashley graduated from the Metal Design program at East Carolina University and has been an Artist-In-Residence at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts (TN), Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago, and the Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft (NC). She has exhibited at the Museum of Arts and Design, Fuller Craft Museum, The Metals Museum, and
- [Joshua Kosker](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/joshua-kosker/) - Joshua Kosker is a contemporary jeweler and visual artist living and working in western Michigan. Drawing from unexpected and often ephemeral materials, his work explores impermanence and counterintuitive methodologies, while examining craft, materiality, and the body. Joshua received his MFA from Bowling Green State University and his BFA from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He exhibits
- [Julia Harrison](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/julia-harrison/) - Julia Harrison is an artist and educator specializing in wood and carving. Julia was a 2025 National Resident Artist at Contemporary Craft, a 2020-24 Resident Artist at the Penland School of Craft, and a 2024 Maker-Creator Fellow at the Winterthur Museum, where she researched 19th century wooden confectionery molds. As an instructor, Julia’s goal is
- [Robert Thomas Mullen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/robert-thomas-mullen/) - Robert is from a small town in southern Illinois nestled in the bluffs of the Mississippi River. He received his BFA in metalsmithing and photography from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and his MFA in metalsmithing from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. In the past few years he has been a part of several national and
- [Erika Johnson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/erika-johnson/) - Multi-disciplinary artist and lifelong mudlark Erika Johnson is the director of tours and programming for The Ruins Project, an outdoor contemporary mosaic museum created by Rachel Sager on the remains of a historic coal mine. Erika's work is rooted in memory, storytelling, and the interconnectedness of all things. Traditional and contemporary mosaic techniques provide both
- [Annette Eshelman](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/annette-eshelman/) - Annette Eshelman has interwoven her work as an artist and art educator for the past 25 years. Her art-making approach is inspired by her Appalachian heritage and strong connection to the "home place.” Her BS in Art and Home Economics from Georgetown College in Georgetown, Kentucky, set her on a path exploring and experimenting with
- [Noelani Jones](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/noelani-jones/) - Born and raised on the island of O’ahu, Noelani Jones, meaning “heavenly mist,” (she/they) is a community-building Fiber Artist passionate about strengthening communities and individuals with art and an appreciation for the natural world. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in 2017 with her BFA in Craft and Material Studies with
- [Jess Kaufman](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/jess-kaufman/) - Jessica Kaufman has her Master’s degree in Crafts Education and is the owner and founder of WAXON Batik & Dye Studio in Asheville, NC. Jess teaches textiles and fiber arts classes and workshops across the US, as well as offering online courses. When not dyeing fabrics for her “job,” she is knitting, harvesting natural materials
- [Katy DeMent](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/katy-dement-2/) - DeMent discovered handmade paper in 1989 at the China Exhibit, High Museum of Art, Atlanta, GA. Profoundly influenced by this tactile and versatile medium. DeMent began a self-taught, ongoing journey creating art works both functional and decorative. She has sustained herself with “paperwork” for over 38 years; her work is collected all over the world.
- [Michael Mangiafico](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/michael-mangiafico-2/) - Michael FiG Mangiafico is a glass artist and teacher living and working in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. After graduating from Carnegie Mellon University with a major in the glass arts he has continued his education by attending as well as teaching glass art seminars across the US as well as in Europe. Michael has built his atelier
- [Joseph Cavalieri](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/joseph-cavalieri/) - Joseph Cavalieri is an artist and educator living in Voulême, France. He was raised in New York. Painted stained glass has a powerful tradition that dates back to Medieval windows in cathedrals throughout Europe. Joseph Cavalieri’s techniques use a similar process of painting and firing enamels on glass in a kiln, while he combines more
- [Kelsie McNair](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/kelsie-mcnair/) - Kelsie McNair is a contemporary glass artist and educator based in Brooklyn, NY. Working under the studio name Soft Shapes, her practice blends traditional stained glass techniques with experimental fused and kiln-formed processes. Drawing inspiration from color, light, and the playful geometry of everyday life, her work reimagines the boundaries of glass as both art
- [Margaret Saylor](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/margaret-saylor-2/) - Margaret Saylor is a botanical artist, designer, and educator from Berks County, Pennsylvania, celebrated for her exquisitely detailed paintings of mushrooms and forest flora in watercolor, graphite, and egg tempera. She holds a BFA in Communications Design from Kutztown University and a Certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration (with Distinction) from the New York Botanical
- [Holli Levy](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/holli-levy/) - Holli Levy is a fine artist based in Fairfield County, CT, known for her vibrant encaustic paintings and mixed-media works that blend encaustic paint, natural materials, papers, and her own photography to create pieces rich in texture, depth, and visual storytelling. Deeply inspired by the outdoors, Holli takes photographs during her travels, hikes, and everyday
- [Robin Menard](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/robin-menard/) - Robin Menard shares her love of nature through her art and teaching. A lifelong artist, Robin is a graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, and a graphic design, marketing and communications professional. She has a Certificate in Botanical Illustration from Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, where she is an instructor in the Botanical Illustration
- [Narong Tintamusik](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/narong-tintamusik/) - Narong Tintamusik is a Dallas-based interdisciplinary artist whose material-focused practice spans painting, sculpture, and craft. His work explores the transformative potential of surfaces through processes such as aniline wood dyeing, patination of metal mesh using food-based agents, and the encrustation of pigments, plastics, and organic residues. Drawing from a background in biology and environmental science,
- [Kristy Deetz](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/kristy-deetz/) - Kristy Deetz is Emerita Professor at the University of Wisconsin—Green Bay. Her extensive exhibition record includes national and international venues. As curator, Kristy has organized exhibitions that have traveled to art museums, university art galleries, and art centers. She frequently serves as a visiting artist and has led numerous painting/drawing workshops at venues including Haystack,
- [Bryan Hopkins](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/bryan-hopkins/) - Bryan Hopkins began at West Chester University of PA as a mathematics major, and found the ceramics studio in his junior year. Bryan went on to earn an MFA in Ceramics from the State University of New York at New Paltz. He has been a studio potter working in porcelain since 1990 and lives in
- [Shalya Marsh](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/shalya-marsh/) - Shalya Marsh is an artist and educator based in Morgantown, West Virginia. Originally from upstate New York, she holds a BFA from the State University of New York at New Paltz and an MFA from the University of Nebraska. Marsh makes work inspired by the textures and patterns of everyday life. Influenced by growing up
- [Taylor Mezo](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/taylor-mezo/) - Taylor Mezo (she/they) is a ceramic artist from Illinois, currently living in Pittsburgh PA. She works primarily in sculptural and functional ware, using red earthenware to create vessels utilizing a mixture of wheelthrowing and handbuilding techniques. In December 2019, she graduated with her Bachelors in Fine Arts from Governors State University. Recently Taylor has participated
- [Stacy Larson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/stacy-larson/) - Originally from Minnesota, Stacy is currently an Artist-in-Residence at LUX Center for the Arts in Lincoln, NE. She received her MFA in Ceramics from West Virginia University, BFA in Ceramics and Jewelry from Syracuse University, and a Post-Baccalaureate at Louisiana State University. Stacy has completed residencies at Red Lodge Clay Center and The Pottery Workshop
- [Yoko Sekino-Bove](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/yoko-sekino-bove/) - Yoko Sekino-Bové, born in Osaka, Japan, is a ceramic artist and educator based in Pennsylvania. After earning her MFA in Ceramics, she began creating porcelain work that blends function with storytelling. Her pieces appear in galleries, museums, and homes worldwide. Yoko teaches at Carnegie Mellon University and shares her passion for ceramic art through exhibitions,
- [Seth Green](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/seth-green/) - Seth Green is an Associate Professor of Ceramics at Purdue University Fort Wayne. He holds an MFA in ceramics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a BA in art from Southern Utah University. Green’s professional experience includes internships and residencies at Anderson Ranch Arts Center, Red Lodge Clay Center and the Archie Bray Foundation. He
- [GV Kelley](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/gv-kelley/) - G.V. Kelley is a nonbinary artist from the San Francisco Bay Area. They received BA degrees in Ceramics and Earth Science from San Francisco State University in 2012. G.V. worked as a studio assistant in the Ceramics Department at SFSU before pursuing post-baccalaureate study at the University of Florida in 2015. They received an MFA
- [Robert Burns](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/robert-burns/) - Robert Burns has been forging and working as a blacksmith since 2008. Robert started his business Wilderness Ironworks in 2010 and has done the work full time for 12 years. Robert has been published in Blade magazine, Field and Stream, Knife magazine, and Sur le Tableu. Robert has also had work in the Metals Museum
- [Mak Henriksen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/mak-henriksen/) - Mak Henriksen is a blacksmith and sculptor from the Pacific Northwest. Their work is primarily inspired by the forested shores of the Salish Sea. They work in a variety of metals with a focus on mindfully crafted home furnishings and place-based sculpture.
- [Emmett Armand](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/emmett-armand/) - Emmett Armand is a kind of jack-of-all-craftsperson with poetic inclinations from Detroit, MI. Self-described as a “tinkering grandpa with a riot grrrl twist”, their work spans a broad range of mediums and themes, however metalwork has always been their bread and butter. They received their BFA from the College for Creative Studies with a concentration
- [Anna R. Koplik](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/anna-r-koplik/) - Anna Koplik received her BFA in Jewelry from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY where she discovered her love for metalwork and forging. After graduating she shifted her focus to blacksmithing and began traveling, working at crafts schools and as a journeyman architectural smith, teaching blacksmithing workshops, and going on adventures whenever possible. Her personal work
- [Lisa Lofdahl](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/lisa-lofdahl/) - Lisa Lofdahl is a bladesmith, blacksmith and metalworker whose workshop is located in Irvington, NJ. Lisa designs and creates custom pieces by hand, focusing primarily on kitchen knives and functional and decorative household fixtures and furnishings. Lisa has been smithing and forging knives full time since 2015 and has expanded her skills under expert instructors
- [Caitlin Morris](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/caitlin-morris/) - Caitlin hangs out with the misfits and scallywags. She sings loudly and out of tune. She is partial to walks in the rain. But the most important thing is this: Caitlin loves blacksmithing. The Vermont native runs Ms Caitlin’s School in Frederick, Maryland, and Lititz, Pennsylvania, which is dedicated to sharing the craft with as
- [Nick Rossi](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/nick-rossi/) - Nick operates Nick Rossi Knives out of his Vassalboro studio where he creates dynamic, world class cutlery for almost every purpose. Nick is influenced by fine art, traditional blacksmithing and early industrial techniques. Nick teaches blacksmithing and bladesmithing at Colby College, hosts private lessons in his own studio and travels the country teaching bladesmithing at
- [Touchstone Staff](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/touchstone-staff/) - This workshop will be instructed by knowledgeable Touchstone staff, interns, or instructors.
- [Meghan Burke](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/meghan-burke/) - Meghan Burke is from Manasquan, New Jersey. She graduated in 2015 from Saint Joseph’s University with a Bachelors of Art and then traveled to several residencies across the U.S. Meghan now resides and works in Pittsburgh. She discovered Touchstone Center for Crafts there and has contributed in various roles. She is an avid animal lover, nature
- [Daniel Tomcik](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/daniel-tomcik/) - Daniel Tomcik is a functional potter, born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. Daniel started working in clay at California University of Pennsylvania, where he earned his BFA with a concentration in ceramics. Daniel has worked as the lab tech intern at Standard Ceramic Supply Company, wood kiln assistant at Baltimore Clayworks, seasonal studio staff at
- [Victoria Ritter and Becky Schimpff](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/becky-schimpff-and-victoria-ritter/) - Becky and Victoria have been teaching the National Curriculum for the California Blacksmith Association (CBA) and Artist Blacksmith's Association of North America (ABANA). Victoria is the Education Chair for the CBA and Becky is the Education Chair for ABANA. They frequently team teach the curriculum on line and at conferences. Victoria has been teaching
- [Dan Kuhn](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/dan-kuhn/)
- [Doug Jones](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/doug-jones/) - Doug Jones is an artist, designer, and educator in Michigan. He earned his MFA at Cranbrook Academy of Art (Bloomfield Hills, MI) from the Print Media and Architecture departments, and his BA at the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI). Jones specializes in all-inclusive design, which includes his large-scale and public work. 2023, Jones unveiled
- [Joshua Hoffman](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/joshua-hoffman/) - Joshua has been studying art for over 15 years. He began oil painting in college where he quickly fell in love with landscape and plein air painting. “There is something special about the connection a painter develops with their surroundings when they are routinely practicing plein air painting. Through utilizing this process, I have learned
- [Erika Broas](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/erika-broas/) - Erika Broas [she/they] is a multidisciplinary artist, who most often can be found making metal objects and jewelry. She graduated with a BFA in metals in 2015 from Grand Valley State University, in Allendale, MI. Broas has been working as an independent jeweler since 2021, focusing on fabrication, stone setting, and forging gold, sterling silver,
- [Bill Wilkey](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/bill-wilkey/) - Bill Wilkey is a studio artist living in Helena, Montana. He received an MFA from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and BFA from East Tennessee State University. Wilkey has been enriched by the craft school experience, which has taken him to places like Penland School of Crafts and Haystack Mountain School of Crafts. Wilkey was featured
- [Cheryl Capezzuti](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/cheryl-capezzuti/) - Cheryl Capezzuti has been making giant puppets and community-interactive public art experiences in Pittsburgh for more than 25 years and was recently featured at Lincoln Center in NYC. She is best known for the artist-made, people-powered First Night Pittsburgh Parade which features about 300 giant puppets, puppet-mobiles, dozens of musicians, pedicab puppets and over 400
- [Maya Kini](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/maya-kini/) - Maya Kini is a goldsmith and poet living in San Francisco. She studied literature and sculpture at Reed College and received her MFA in metalsmithing from Cranbrook Academy of Art in 2007. Maya has taught jewelry and metalsmithing at Sacramento City College, Sacramento State University and at Penland School of Crafts. She was a 2009
- [Michael Nashef](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/michael-nashef/) - Michael Nashef is a multifaceted artist and entrepreneur with a diverse background in metals and jewelry design. Holding a Master of Fine Arts degree in Metals/Jewelry Design from Bowling Green State University, Nashef's journey in the world of jewelry spans various roles and accomplishments. With a passion for craftsmanship and creativity, Nashef has honed his
- [Sandra McEwen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/sandra-mcewen/) - Sandra McEwen, a highly accomplished enamel artist with a passion for enamel that spans over 20 years. Following her graduation with a BFA in illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design, Sandra immersed herself in various artistic forms, including stained glass, before finally finding her true calling in enamels. Throughout her career, Sandra has
- [Anne Bujold](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/anne-bujold/) - Anne Bujold utilizes metalworking techniques alongside found materials, assemblage, and casting to create objects and installations. An interest in the social construction of nature informs her studio practice, which is frequently collaborative. Bujold is the Assistant Professor of Sculpture at the University of Louisiana, Lafayette (2023-present). She received her MFA from the Craft and Material
- [Masako Onodera](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/masako-onodera/) - Masako Onodera utilizes craft techniques in her art and connects the audience emotionally to the materials and practices employed. Her creations suggest an experience of the body altered by the tactile and visual characteristics of the object. Onodera is the recipient of the Ohio Arts Council Individual Excellence Award, and her work is part of public
- [Lucas Pointon](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/lucas-pointon/) - Lucas Pointon is an artist, educator, and bench jeweler living in Little Rock, AR. He received his MFA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Lucas taught as a lecturer for the Metalsmithing and Jewelry Area for 3 years, teaching both beginner and advanced courses. Additionally, he has now helped develop Arkansas's first Jewelry Technical Program, where
- [Ren Higuera](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/ren-higuera/) - Ren Higuera (they/them) is a jeweler and enamelist. After receiving their BFA in metalsmithing from the University of North Texas in 2022, they split their time designing for an art jeweler in Dallas and attending craft schools across the East Coast. Ren’s main body of work is a line of fidget jewelry designed to aid
- [Barbara McFadyen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/barbara-mcfadyen/) - Barbara McFadyen is a metalsmith and enamelist designing jewelry in gold, silver, and enamel for over four decades. Barbara received her BA in Visual Arts from Eckerd College and her MFA from East Carolina University. Nationally recognized through exhibitions with the American Crafts Council, the Smithsonian Institution, SNAG, and the Enamelist Society, her work can
- [Daniel Brockett](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/daniel-brockett/) - Dan Brockett has been creating handwoven baskets from willow grown on his 12-acre property, Foggy Blossom Farm, in Leechburg, PA since 2018. He is a self-taught weaver focused on sharing the sustainability, functionality and natural beauty of his material.
- [Geoffrey Gorman](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/geoffrey-gorman/) - Geoffrey is a practicing artist, creating his original found material sculptures in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He shows his work around the United States and had also exhibited in China, South Korea and Canada. Over the years his unique sculptures have been written about in the New York Post, Southwest Art, American Craft, American Style and
- [Geoffrey Bowton](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/geoffrey-bowton/) - Geoffrey Bowton, a US Army Sergeant and combat veteran, draws inspiration from his military background and deployment experiences in the Middle East in his studio practice. His work delves into the complexities of war, post-traumatic stress, and mental wellness, offering a profound exploration of these themes. His artworks serve as navigational tools, guiding viewers through
- [Meredith Edmondson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/meredith-edmondson/) - Meredith Edmondson began working with glass in 2005, having first fallen in love with the material during a chance visit to the Appalachian Center for Craft, from which she later received her BFA in 2009. Her work incorporates a variety of techniques, including glass blowing, fusing and slumping, kiln casting, and screenprinting. Central to her
- [Steven Walker](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/steven-walker/) - Steven S. Walker has been creating inspiring works of art for corporations and private collectors for over twenty years. He earned his bachelor’s degree in fine arts at Virginia Commonwealth University with a concentration in illustration. He would later earn his masters in fine arts from Marywood University. As a full time artist, Steven has
- [Stuart Gair](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/stuart-gair/) - Stuart Gair received a history degree from Ohio University and completed an MFA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Gair has spent time making work and teaching at the Archie Bray Foundation (Helena, MT), Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) as well as Colorado Mountain College (Aspen, CO). Currently, Stuart lives in Athens, Ohio where he is a
- [Ray Brown](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/2886/) - Ray Brown was born in Houston, Texas, and received his BFA with Honors from the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College at the University of Mississippi under Matt Long. During the summers, he assisted ceramic artists Chris Gustin in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, and Christopher Spitzmiller in New York City. He continued to receive an MFA in Studio
- [Nathan Murray](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/nathan-murray/) - Nathan Murray is a socially engaged artist and educator from Nebraska. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska and his Master of Fine Arts from the University of Florida. Murray has been widely published, including his work on the cover of Ceramics Monthly and his work in the 2023 book,
- [Misty Gamble](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/misty-gamble/) - A California transplanted feminist vegan living deep in cattle country on the High Plains of Texas, Gamble creates life-size ceramic figurative sculptures and installations of multiple ceramic cast fragments, focusing attention on issues surrounding ecofeminism. Her current work sits at the intersection of feminism and environmentalism and looks to the relationship between human animals and
- [Melissa Weiss](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/melissa-weiss/) - Melissa Weiss is a full-time studio potter in Asheville, NC. She runs a community studio that serves over 15 artists. She makes custom stoneware from clay that she digs in Arkansas. All of her pots are one of a kind. She fires to cone 10 in a gas reduction kiln and reduction cools with wood.
- [David Kring](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/david-kring/) - David Kenton Kring was born and raised in Frankfort, Kentucky where he grew up in and around his family-run men’s workwear store. This blue-collar atmosphere helped to influence not only his passion for working with his hands but also his love of nostalgic imagery and interaction with everyday objects. He received his BA from Transylvania
- [Jamie Bates](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/jamie-bates/) - Jamie Bates, originally from Cameron, Missouri, is a ceramic artist known for their exploration of identity and mental landscapes through figurative sculpture. Holding an MFA in Ceramics from the University of Kansas and a BFA in Studio Art from the University of Central Missouri, Bates employs scale, composition, and surface to challenge societal norms and
- [Pattie Chalmers](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/pattie-chalmers/) - Pattie Chalmers grew up and went to art school in Winnipeg, Canada. She received her BFA in printmaking from the University of Manitoba, and her MFA in ceramics from the University of Minnesota. Since graduating she has exhibited in group exhibitions on five continents, in six countries and in thirty-four states and has had six
- [Daniel Garver](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/daniel-garver/) - Originally from Madison Wisconsin, Daniel currently lives in North Carolina, where he is a long term Resident Artist (21’-24’) at the Penland School of Craft. He holds a BFA from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (2011). Daniel was Core Fellow at the Penland school of Craft (15’-17’) and participated in a variety of residencies including the
- [Jordan Borstelmann](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/jordan-borstelmann/) - Jordan Borstelmann is the owner of Crooked Path Forge. His first experience smithing was a 2 week beginners course in 2004 at the Penland School of Crafts. He then apprenticed for a year under blacksmith Yaw Owusu Shangofemi, from 2008 to 2009. Jordan acquired his own shop in 2010 and has been learning what skills
- [Addison DeLisle](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/addison-delisle/) - De Lisle earned his BFA in Metalsmithing and Jewelry at the Maine College of Art in ‘11 and MFA in Blacksmithing and Metalsmithing at the SIU Carbondale, in ‘18. He also participated in a year-long fellowship in fine ironwork at the Fondation de Coubertin in France from ‘14-’15. He has led workshops at notable craft
- [Sophie Glenn](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/sophie-glenn/) - Sophie is a metalworker and furniture maker based in Reading, PA. She received her MFA in Furniture Design and Woodworking from San Diego State University, and BFA in Sculpture and Drawing from SUNY Purchase College. She has exhibited her work across the country, including Blue Spiral 1 Gallery, the Museum for Art in Wood, and the
- [Leslie Tharp](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/leslie-tharp/) - Leslie Tharp is a Florida based metal artist, specializing in large-scale ironwork. The unique combination of forged and fabricated metal inspires creative expression as well as structural solutions. This perspective on the material has encouraged an abundance of applications, from public art to architectural metalwork, and so much more. In addition to her studio practice,
- [Dallas Wooten](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/dallas-wooten/) - Dallas Wooten was born in Louisville, KY, where he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Ceramics from Indiana University Southeast, right across the river. After graduating, he attended Ohio University’s graduate program, completing the program in 2020. Following his time at OU, Wooten was a long-term Artist-in-Residence at Hope Center for Arts and
- [Anne Wolf](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/anne-wolf/) - Anne Wolf earned her MFA in Jewelry/Metals at San Diego State University in 1999. Wolf has been teaching online and in-person jewelry/metals courses and workshops since 2003, through her business Anneville Studio in San Diego, CA. Her cherry-blossom tsuba was recently awarded Bronze at the 13th NBSK Craftmen’s Competition in Japan. While in the US,
- [Douglas E. Wilson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/douglas-e-wilson/) - A metalsmith since 1973, Doug Wilson received his BFA from Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, and has been operating his studio on Little Deer Isle since 1981. His work has been included in numerous private collections, national exhibitions and publications. He has been a demonstrator at several national and international blacksmithing conferences including six
- [Emily Schroeder Willis](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/emily-schroeder-willis/) - An artist and Associate Professor, Adjunct at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Emily received her BFA from the U of MN, Twin Cities, and her MFA from CU, Boulder. She has exhibited her work at the Dubai Design Fair in the UAE, the Kansas City Museum in Missouri, the Ohio Craft Museum
- [James Viste](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/james-viste/) - James Viste was raised on a farm in Wisconsin. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and a Master of Fine Art degree from Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He is a nationally known blacksmithing demonstrator and exhibitor and has participated in several National Ironwork Restoration Projects, including
- [Joan Stolz](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/joan-stolz/) - Joan Stolz is a recently retired professor from Parkland College in Illinois, where she taught painting, drawing, and two-dimensional design for 25 years. She has shown her work in galleries in Washington, DC, Baltimore, Paris, and New York. Her oil paintings, pastels, and silverpoint works are included in several public collections. She received her MFA
- [Julie Snidle](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/julie-snidle/) - Julie Snidle is a full-time artist with classroom teaching experience and a background in corporate training and administration. Julie was introduced to wax-based media in 2004 and has made it her primary focus since then. She is a Core Instructor for R&F Handmade Paints and an Artist Ambassador for Ampersand Art Panels. Julie is represented
- [Sarah Jane Sindler](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/sarah-jane-sindler/) - Sarah Jane Sindler, owner and designer of KING RELD is an avant-garde creator of custom and readymade jewelry in her Brewhouse Arts studio in Pittsburgh’s Southside. She is a teaching-artist and has taught at Protohaven, Center for Contemporary Craft, and Pittsburgh Center for Arts and Media, along with private lessons in her studio. In lieu
- [Tony Serviente](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/tony-serviente/) - After four years of electronics duty in the USCG, Tony changed direction in 1980 and took up stained glass. Since then, he has done restorations, commissions, and taught extensively. He also designed and marketed a line of kilnformed gifts nationally for 33 years. In addition, he paints on and etches glass, rides a unicycle, and
- [Gretchen Schermerhorn](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/gretchen-schermerhorn/) - Gretchen Schermerhorn is a printmaker, papermaker, and textile artist, and is the executive director of Southern Graphics Council International, one of the largest membership organizations dedicated to the art of printmaking. She received her MFA in Printmaking from Arizona State University, and since then, has completed artist residencies at The Women’s Studio Workshop in New
- [Margaret Saylor](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/margaret-saylor/) - Margaret Saylor is an artist who creates artwork focusing on mushrooms and fungi. She uses watercolor, graphite, and egg tempera to bring her pieces to life and gets her inspiration from her native Berks County, Pennsylvania. Margaret teaches her students the importance of observation, good drawing skills, and enthusiasm for botanical painting in a fun
- [Michele Randall](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/michele-randall/) - Michele Randall is an artist and instructor. A native of rural Pennsylvania, her work is influenced by her connection to environment and place. Michele has a BS and an MFA from Penn State University. She has taught in the art department at Penn State and Susquehanna University. Currently, she works full time as an artist
- [Nanette Pengelley](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/nanette-pengelley/) - Nanette is a queer, Jamaican-American metalsmith from south Florida. Leaving home at 17, she went on to live in Quito, Boston, and Florence. After graduating from MassArt in 2015 with her BFA in Jewelry and Metalsmithing, Nanette has been exploring her practice within her brand, Hew Jewelry. She currently lives in Durham, NC, and spends
- [Jared Ondovchik](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/jared-ondovchik/) - Jared Ondovchik is a full time blacksmith/bladesmith in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He made his first knife 11 years ago and fell in love with the process. While knives are still his primary focus, Jared enjoys hand forging whatever someone might request of him.
- [Michael Mangiafico](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/michael-mangiafico/) - Michael Mangiafico is a glass artist and teacher working in Pittsburgh, PA. He graduated with a BFA in glass art from Carnegie Mellon University in 1985, and has continued his education by attending as well as teaching glass art seminars across the US. In 1996, Michael established FiG Studios – Forms in Glass. He designs,
- [Susan Madacsi](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/susan-madacsi/) - Susan Madacsi, a studio artist and blacksmith, founded Madacsi Studios in 2014 in Garden City, Idaho. Madacsi Studios was developed to offer homeowners, business owners, architects, designers, collectors, and gallery owners an opportunity to acquire and add heirloom quality pieces with custom design to their collections. She has taught at John C. Campbell Folk School,
- [Stacy Lund Levy](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/stacy-lund-levy/) - Artist and Baltimore native Stacy Lund Levy has been creating art in many forms since kindergarten. She earned a BA from Hood College in Biochemistry as well as an MA from The Johns Hopkins Art as Applied to Medicine program. Combining her artistic talents with her intellectual interest in anatomy and science, she initially worked
- [Jan Loney](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/jan-loney/) - Jan Loney is a Pittsburgh-based metal artist whose work ranges from decorative to functional, often embodying both approaches. Her work as a metalsmith is part art and part science and draws from her personal experience and creative spark. She is informed by science, technology, nature and ecological practices and relishes using, reusing, and repurposing a
- [Kathy King](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/kathy-king/) - Kathy King (she/her) is an active studio artist in the Boston area and is both an instructor and the Director of the Ceramics Program and Visual Arts Initiatives – Office for the Arts at Harvard in Allston, MA. Prior to moving back to the Boston area, she was an Associate Professor at Georgia State University.
- [Drew Kail](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/drew-kail/) - Drew has been a glass artist since 2012, specializing in kilnformed glass. In 2015, he co-founded Camp Copeland Studio to continue making glass art in his own shop in Braddock, PA. Drew has worked for Bullseye Glass Company in Portland, Oregon, The Pittsburgh Glass Center, where he is currently an instructor, and Wissmach Glass Company,
- [David Jarvinen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/david-jarvinen/) - David Jarvinen is a self-taught mosaic artist who came to the mosaic art form through his ceramic tile contracting business. David began teaching classes as a substitute for a clay artist in 2006, which led to providing materials in his ceramic tile store, leading to instructing more and more classes that had a focus on
- [Margaret Jacobs](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/margaret-jacobs/) - Margaret Jacobs, Akwesasne Mohawk, is a metalsmith who creates fabricated steel sculpture and powder coated jewelry. Her works have strong narrative threads with imagery that centers the natural world, plants, and botanicals as kin, and her subject matter is based on cultural and personal stories. Jacobs is a 2022 Collective Spirit Fund Award through the
- [Glenn Horr](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/glenn-horr/) - Glenn Horr has been creating hand-forged metalwork since high school. He took his first blacksmithing class through the Pioneer Crafts Council (now Touchstone Center for Crafts), formerly located in Mill Run, PA. Glenn has taught workshops at Touchstone for many years. He also shares his techniques at regional and national conferences. Glenn was Touchstone’s Artist
- [Lisa Geertsen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/lisa-geertsen/) - Lisa Geertsen is an artist blacksmith from Seattle, WA. Her process is about making connections, telling a story, turning the ordinary into something beautiful through the metamorphic process of working with metal. With a BFA in sculpture from WVU, and an MFA from SIUC, she has taught blacksmithing at Pratt Fine Arts Center from 2007-2020
- [Laritza Garcia](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/laritza-garcia/) - Laritza Garcia is an artist and educator from the South Texas/Mexico border. She integrates her vibrant cultural palate and metalsmithing techniques to create her jewelry designs. With artworks showcased nationally and internationally, her pieces reside in the permanent collections of institutions such as the Mint Museum and the Racine Art Museum. Laritza has been featured
- [Motoko Furuhashi](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/motoko-furuhashi/) - Motoko Furuhashi is an artist and Associate Professor at New Mexico State University. Furuhashi received her MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her works have been exhibited nationally and internationally, including the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, the Oakland Museum of California, Alliages in Lilly, France, and
- [April Franklin](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/april-franklin/) - April Franklin has over 25 years of experience with metal. From working on maintaining large scale outdoor pieces to producing one-of-a-kind architectural pieces and following her own passion for pattern welded steel, April has a wealth of experience with a wide range of materials. She has taught at the Penland School of Crafts in NC,
- [Wesley Fleming](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/wesley-fleming/) - An ambassador for the smaller denizens of the earth, Wesley Fleming’s fantastic realism in glass sparks awe and curiosity in others. He has focused two decades honing his glassworking skills and captures the essence of actual species of insects and flowers with the intricate details of their tiny antennae or stamen.
- [Katy Dement](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/katy-dement/) - DeMent discovered handmade paper in 1989 at the China Exhibit, High Museum of Art, Atlanta. Profoundly influenced by this tactile and versatile medium, DeMent began a self-taught ongoing journey creating art works both functional and decorative. She has sustained herself with “paperwork” for over 36 years; her work is collected all over the world. This
- [Austin Coudriet](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/austin-coudriet/) - Austin Coudriet was born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska. In 2019, he earned his BFA with a dual emphasis in sculpture and ceramics from the University of Nebraska- Lincoln. Austin is currently a long-term artist in residence at the Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts located in Helena, Montana. There, he is able to
- [Aminata Conteh](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/aminata-conteh/) - Aminata Conteh’s practice hybridizes the histories and traditions of Metalsmithing with weaving and basketry. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, she draws inspiration from the intersections of her experiences as a first generation American and her Sierra Leonean lineage. Conteh holds a BFA in Metalsmithing & Jewelry from MECA&D. She was the recipient of a
- [Ann Coddington](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/ann-coddington/) - Ann is a Professor of Art and Graduate Coordinator Emeritus from Eastern Illinois University. She received her MFA from the University of Illinois Sculpture Department, and her BFA from the Colorado State University Fibers Department. She is very active teaching sculptural twining workshops around the world. Ann has recently taught at the Fibre Arts Australia
- [Jes Clark](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/jes-clark/) - Jes Clark (they/them) is the farmer and weaver at Willow Vale Farm in Stanfordville, NY. Jes weaves traditional and contemporary functional pieces and the basket forms created are a result of their conversation with each stick of willow. All of their willow is grown without pesticides using regenerative practices and with loving care. Jes has
- [Wes Brown](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/wes-brown/) - Wes Brown is a ceramic artist based out of central Pennsylvania. Brown combines wheel throwing and handbuilding to create ceramic vessels with sculptural considerations and utilitarian functions. Raised in Dayton, Ohio, Brown traveled extensively for education across the Midwest before graduating and taking a long-term residency at Baltimore Clayworks in Maryland. Making work, teaching, and
- [HP Bloomer](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/hp-bloomer/) - HP Bloomer attended the University of North Texas, where he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2007, and a Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics in 2011. While growing up, his father was an architect and painter, and his mother was a potter and art educator. In his teens and twenties and while working
- [Kimberlyn Bloise](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/kimberlyn-bloise/) - Kimberlyn is a ceramic artist based in Pittsburgh, PA. She received her MFA from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, and she currently teaches at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Pittsburgh Center for Arts and Media. Kimberlyn is fascinated by the physics of sound and creates ceramic sound objects, exploring ideas around anxiety and communication, and challenging
- [Tom Bartel](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/tom-bartel/) - Tom Bartel is a ceramic sculptor who maintains a studio in Athens, Ohio, where he serves as Professor and Ceramics Chairperson at Ohio University. His works are constructed to refer to both the body and as charged, stylized, surrogates for the body such as dolls, toys, and figurines. Press and publications for his work includes
- [Carl Auböck V](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/carl-aubock-v/) - Carl Auböck V, a member of the fifth generation of the renowned Werkstätte Carl Auböck, is traveling from Austria to lead this exclusive hands-on workshop, which is limited to eight participants. Carl Auböck V was born in Vienna, Austria, on the 9th of August 1987. In 2016, he received the degree Dipl.Ing. of Architecture at
- [Mark Aspery](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/mark-aspery/) - Mark Aspery is a certified journeyman smith from the UK, and has authored three books on blacksmithing. He is currently working on his fourth and fifth books.
- [Adam Atkinson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/adam-atkinson/) - Adam Atkinson (he/they) is a metalsmith, curator, and educator. Atkinson received an MFA in Metal Design at East Carolina University (2019), and a BFA at Boise State University (2013). Their work has been exhibited widely, including the Metal Museum in Memphis, TN, and Nagoya Zokei University in Nagoya, Japan. In 2019, they co-founded Spectral Matter,
- [Marcé Nixon-Washington](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/instructors/marce-nixon-washington/) - Marcè Nixon-Washington is a multidisciplinary artist based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She received her BFA from West Virginia University with a focus in Africana Studies. Marcè studied Ceramics in Jingdezhen, China, where she found her love for shards and ceramic history. She investigates ceramics as an archival material to record personal and cultural history. Her work

## Staff Members

- [Andrew J. Welton](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/andrew-welton/) - A blacksmith, educator, and historian from Mars, PA, Andrew smelts iron from local stone and forges it into kitchen tools and historical replicas. Passionate about traditional processes, Andrew hopes to connect with local artists and students, sharing and expanding knowledge within the creative community. Fun fact: Andrew loves living in the woods and planted over
- [Abigail Miller](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/abigail-miller/) - Abigail Miller is the Administrative Services Manager for Touchstone Center for Crafts. A historian by training, her eclectic background stretches from higher education to healthcare administration and everything in-between. After more than a decade of globetrotting, Abigail has settled back at home in the heart of Appalachia where she makes her living supporting communities of
- [Kate Lydon](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/kate-lydon/) - For 35 years, Kate Lydon was Director of Exhibitions at Contemporary Craft (CC) and oversaw the installation of exhibitions at CC’s main Strip District galleries and at the BNY Mellon satellite gallery in downtown Pittsburgh. She participated in all decisions regarding exhibition development, selection of work, touring of exhibitions and development of public programming. Lydon
- [Mike Kuzemchak](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/mike-kuzemchak/) - Mike Kuzemchak is the Associate Vice President for Government and Community Relations, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. In this role, Mike provides oversight of WPC’s public policy work, along with the Conservancy’s conservation science and natural heritage programs. He also leads the sustainability initiatives across WPC’s offices. Mike has worked with the Conservancy since 2004, most recently
- [Gracie Herbert](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/gracie-herbert/) - Gracie Herbert is a higher education advancement leader with extensive experience in donor relations, strategic stewardship, and community engagement. Focusing on mission-driven programming, she has led initiatives that strengthen institutional storytelling, enhance donor experiences, and cultivate meaningful connections across diverse constituencies. She currently serves as Associate Director of Donor Engagement at Miami University, where she
- [Jeremy Rice](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/jeremy-rice/) - Jeremy spent the last 18 years working in the mines in West Virginia, where he served as a shift manager in charge of 200+ people. He is a father of two and lives just a few miles from Touchstone’s campus. Jeremy comes to the position with a host of applicable skills and has made huge
- [Travis Winters](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/travis-winters/) - Travis Winters is a ceramic artist and Programs Director at Touchstone Center for Crafts. Working primarily with animals and figures, he creates figures based on mundane day-to-day life, past struggles and real people. An MFA graduate from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Winters exhibits work nationally and has shown at Baltimore Clayworks in Baltimore, MD, The
- [Dean Simpson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/dean-simpson/) - Dean Simpson is a multifaceted creative professional from the greater Pittsburgh area. As a fine artist and arts marketer, he brings a unique blend of artistic talent and marketing expertise to his role as Communication Director at Touchstone Center for Crafts. Driven by a passion for sharing knowledge, Dean is an adjunct faculty member in
- [Stefanie Glover](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/stefanie-glover/) - Stefanie Glover is the deputy director of Touchstone Center for Crafts. Since 2008, she has served the organization as an intern, outreach instructor, operations and development coordinator, operations manager, and interim director. She holds a degree in business administration and has experience within the hospitality, construction, education, and nonprofit industries. She’s a neurodivergent Virgo with
- [Lindsay Ketterer Gates](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/laurel-smith/) - Lindsay has an undergraduate degree in Fine Arts (1996), a graduate certificate in Non-Profit Management/Arts Administration (2002) and a Masters of Business Administration (2018). She was employed as the Director of Development at Peters Valley School of Craft for many years before taking on the role of Executive Director at Touchstone Center for Crafts in
- [Pam Komar](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/pam-komar/) - Pam grew up studying dance and piano, eventually exiting the stage to become an arts manager and curator. For over 20 years she served as the Director of the EQT Children’s Theater Festival and Director of Programming for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. All the while, she continued to delve into crafts. She tried her hand at silversmithing and enamels. She painted watercolors, wove micro glass beads, crocheted cacti and sewed home
- [John A. Wilson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/john-wilson/) - Chalk Hill, PA John A. Wilson has been a career nonprofit developer, organizer, and administrator of anti-poverty community programs and organizations. The scope of his involvements has been local, statewide, regional, and national organizations as an administrator or board director. Wilson testified on public policy before committees of the PA Legislature, the California Assembly and
- [Barrie Athol](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/barrie-athol/) - Farmington, PA Barrie Athol first embraced Touchstone through his involvement in workshops including blacksmithing, ceramics, and drawing. His passion for Touchstone and its mission continues to grow as does his involvement across multiple volunteer roles. Before joining Touchstone’s board of directors, Barrie retired from BNY Mellon as a Chief Strategy Officer where he led the
- [Roy Arnold](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/roy-arnold/) - Pittsburgh/Farmington, PA Roy is a partner in the Blank Rome LLP law firm, where he co-chairs the firm’s Pittsburgh Office and its national class action defense team. He has extensive commercial and corporate litigation experience in a variety of industries, including the defense of more than 300 class actions in more than 12 states. He
- [Morgan Winter](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/morgan-winter/) - Morgan is a ceramic artist from Kentucky who is drawn to the tactile nature of clay and its deep connection to the earth. He often works with wild clays gathered from natural deposits, and his practice centers on wood firing—a process he values for both its physical intensity and the community it fosters. This year,
- [Noelani Jones](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/noelani-jones/) - From Honolulu, HI, Noelani was born and raised on the island of O’ahu. A fiber artist with work deeply rooted in nature and community, Noelani graduated in 2017 from VCU’s Craft & Material Studies program. Noelani uses textiles as a medium to connect people and place through storytelling and sustainable practices. Fun Fact: Lives on
- [Sonya Sagan-Dworsly](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/sonya-sagan-dworsly/) - A sculptor, printmaker, and natural dyer from Vermont, Sonya finds joy working with her hands alongside fellow creatives. Her work uses steel, natural materials, and industrial imagery to explore the value of labor and the changing landscape. Sonya hopes to refine her forging technique while gaining the experience needed to take on future instructional roles
- [Kade HB](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/kade-hb/) - Kade, from Livingston, MT, received a BA in Studio Art from St. Olaf College and completed a two-year post-baccalaureate in Ceramics at Indiana University Southeast. An interdisciplinary artist working primarily in clay, Kade creates atmospheric-fired sculptural forms and vessels inspired by geological weathering, incorporating found materials. At Touchstone, he hopes to expand a ceramics network
- [Jordan Stanford](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/jordan-stanford/) - Jordan is a ceramic artist from Eldorado, TX. After earning her BFA in 2022, she spent the past year traveling and working as an artist. While at Touchstone, she hopes to achieve growth in ceramics and explore a few other mediums while learning from accomplished instructors and building new connections. Fun fact: Grew up in
- [Lia Musante](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/lia-musante/) - A jeweler from Annapolis, MD, Lia works and teaches in Philadelphia. After studying community-based oral history in college, they learned metalsmithing through work-studies at craft schools. Lia connects those experiences by using jewelry as a worn archive and teaching in accessible settings. At Touchstone, they hope to explore process, teaching, and other media. Fun fact:
- [Elizabeth Lawrence](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/elizabeth-lawrence/) - Somerset, PA Elizabeth Lawrence is a dedicated researcher at the University of Pittsburgh with a deep passion for the intersection of craft, history, science and material culture. A glass and ceramics artist herself, Elizabeth has long been captivated by the transformative nature of these mediums, especially in the setting of Touchstone, blending technical expertise with
- [Michael Frank](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/michael-frank/) - Santa Fe, NM Michael Robert Frank is a Blues musician, award-winning record producer, artist manager, biographer, and owner of Earwig Music Company, a record label and music business consulting firm he founded in 1978. Michael managed, produced, and toured on harmonica with double Grammy Award Honoree Bluesman David "Honeyboy" Edwards for thirty-six years. In addition
- [Joy Knepp](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/joy-knepp-2/) - Somerset, PA Joy Knepp is a glass artist who lives and works in her home studio in the beautiful Laurel Highlands in Somerset, PA. She is a retired visual arts educator from the Shanksville-Stonycreek School District where she taught for 27 years. Her education includes a B.S. and B.A. degrees from Pennsylvania State University and
- [Anissa White](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/anissa-white/) - Annie uses clay, screenprinting, installation, and mixed media as conduits for social commentary on gender discrimination, women’s health, and sexual assault. An MFA candidate at Edinboro University, she has exhibited work nationally and internationally. This summer, Annie aims to gain insight into the inner workings of craft schools while collaborating with other artists to foster
- [Art Gibson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/art-gibson/) - Art, from South Florida, is pursuing an MFA at the University of Milwaukee, focusing on blacksmithing and digital fabrication. This is Art’s second summer at Touchstone. He aims to use this internship to further research forging additively using forge welding, re-approaching it as if it were the first technique he learned. Fun Fact: As a
- [Roxy Bridges](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/roxy-bridges/) - Roxy, a textile artist from Georgia, is currently pursuing a BFA at RISD. Using traditional techniques like dyeing, quilting, and weaving, Roxy explores and learns from the landscape. This is their first experience at a craft school, and they are excited to gain insights into non-profits, teaching, and studio management. Roxy also aims to conduct
- [Zach Morphew](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/zach-morphew/) - Zach is a 2024 graduate of WVU’s painting program who dedicates much of his time to creating things. He enjoys acquiring new skills and has recently developed an interest in puppet-making. Eager to learn and connect with others, he has greatly enjoyed his time with the other interns and looks forward to the remainder of
- [Ren Higuera](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/ren-higuera/) - Ren is a talented jeweler specializing in kinetic fidget jewelry. They earned their BFA in metalsmithing from the University of North Texas, gaining valuable experience through work-study programs at Arrowmont, Snow Farm, and Touchstone. This year, Ren has advanced to a studio management intern, eager to learn the intricacies of maintaining and enhancing a shared
- [James Mochnsky](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/james-mochnsky/) - Chalk Hill, PA James Mochnsky is a seasoned brand builder. Combining his creative skills along with a strong marketing acumen he has helped build brands in the U.S. (on a local, regional, and national scale) and around the world. He has been the creative director for brands like Fila and Samsung (global) during their transitions
- [Trellis Smith](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/trellis-smith/) - Reedsville, WV Trellis Smith manages the day-to-day operations of Modern Homestead – a retail garden center, short-term accommodations, and farm-to-table eatery located in West Virginia. Trellis has a background in marketing and hospitality. Trellis is a native of New Orleans and currently lives in Reedsville, West Virginia, with his husband, Lucas Tatham, and two sons,
- [Glen Gardner](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/staff-member/glen-gardner-2/) - Pittsburgh, PA Glen Gardner began working with metal in the late sixties. From 1972 to 1976, he was resident blacksmith at Peters Valley Craftsman in Layton, New Jersey. In 1977, Glen built a forge and studio in the mountains of North Carolina, located near the Penland School of Crafts. He moved to Pittsburgh in 1992

## Workshops

- [Mokume Gane: From Billet to Ring w/ Eric Burris](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/mokume-gane-from-billet-to-ring-w-eric-burris/) - Intermediate | $270-$320 Materials and Studio Fees* This workshop is a great introduction to Mokume Gane, or wood grain metal, especially if you’re new to the technique.Eric will demonstrate a low-tech method to firing a small sterling silver and copper billet using a soldering torch-no torque plates with this process! Students will learn to hot
- [Encaustic Layers with Mixed Media w/ Leah MacDonald](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/encaustic-layers-with-mixed-media-w-leah-macdonald/) - All Levels | $175-$225 Materials and Studio Fees* This workshop will demonstrate how to use photography, painting and drawing with encaustics. We will explore various techniques to use imagery and materials in between encaustic layers. The emphasis will be in understanding tools and materials such as encaustic medium, encaustic gesso, pigment sticks, photographs and lightweight
- [Thrown and Slipped w/ Gillan Doty](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/thrown-and-slipped-w-gillan-doty/) - All Levels | $75-$125 Materials and Studio Fees* This workshop is geared towards participants who want to expand their vocabulary of form and decoration. Attendees will gain skills for throwing larger, more complex forms with a number of techniques. We will cover stacking multiple forms together, throwing and altering, and incorporate handbuilding techniques as well!
- [Lost and Found: Mosaic for Remembering w/ Erika Johnson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/lost-and-found-mosaic-for-remembering-w-erika-johnson/) - All Levels | $110-$160 Materials and Studio Fees* Are you a finder? A keeper? A mudlark or magpie? Mosaic is the perfect medium for transforming pocket treasures into art that holds the memory of a person, place, or time. Learn to use the direct set method to create mosaics using found objects and natural materials
- [Pouring Stories: Expressive Teapots w/ Yoko Sekino-Bové](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/pouring-stories-expressive-teapots-w-yoko-sekino-bove/) - Intermediate - Advanced | $125-$175 Materials and Studio Fees* In this workshop, participants will broaden their horizons by exploring the ceramic teapot and its many possibilities. Using both handbuilding and wheel-throwing techniques, we will learn how to create individual components that function well together, and how to assemble them into a cohesive object that tells
- [Encaustic Explorations w/ Holli Levy](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/encaustic-explorations-w-holli-levy/) - All Levels | $180-$230 Materials and Studio Fees* Discover the luminous, tactile world of encaustic painting in this intensive 5‑day beginner workshop. Using molten beeswax, damar resin, and pigment, students will learn how to build rich layers of color, texture, and transparency while working safely with heat tools and studio equipment.We will also explore other
- [Gothic Ironwork: Mastering the design and construction of medieval andirons w/ Kim Thomas](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/blacksmithing-workshop-tbd-w-kim-thomas/) - Advanced | TBD Materials and Studio Fees*The timeless allure of Gothic ironwork lies in its imaginative application of decorative and sculptural elements to functional forms. In this one-week course, Master Blacksmith Kim Thomas will lead students in the design and construction of medieval andirons. Focusing on historic examples, students will sample and problem solve advanced
- [Sweetgrass Creations w/ Lynette Youson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/sweetgrass-creations-w-lynette-youson/) - No Experience - Beginner | $25-$40 Materials and Studio Fees* These baskets are weaved differently than most because they are made in the West African tradition of coiling which is the correct way that Lynette will teach you while you enjoy your course. Dried sweetgrass is bundled together and coiled in circles. Also, bulrush, pine
- [Forged Hook Racks w/ Arthur Gibson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/forged-hook-racks-w-arthur-gibson/) - No Experience-Beginner TBD Materials and Studio Fees* An introduction to fundamental blacksmithing processes with the end goal of putting together a hook rack that participants can take home and use. Techniques covered will include forging tapers, shoulders, bending, punching holes, and riveting. Depending on the interests of the attendees, twisting, chiseling, and even forge welding
- [Once Upon a Pendant: Flameworked Treasures w/ Jessica Tsai](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/once-upon-a-pendant-flameworked-treasures-w-jessica-tsai/) - Intermediate $80-$130 Materials and Studio Fees* In this workshop, we will learn to flamework borosilicate glass to create unique wearable sculptures in the form of pendants. The focus will be on sculpting small glass components that are delicate but also structurally well-crafted for wearability. We will go over ways to create a “framework” to build
- [Peaceful Watercolor Practice w/ Dean Simpson](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/peaceful-watercolor-practice-w-dean-simpson/) - No Experience/Beginner TBD Materials and Studio Fees* Discover a calming, nature-inspired approach to watercolor. We’ll begin with simple warm-ups and sketchbook exploration to observe how water, pigment, and paper interact. Techniques will encourage you to release control, follow the flow, and welcome moments of unpredictability. You’ll build confidence by embracing experimentation and gentle imperfection, allowing
- [Date Night (October 2): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-october-2-medium-tbd-2/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (September 11): Glass](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-september-11-glass/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Blacksmith's Folding Knife w/ Robert Burns](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/tbd-w-robert-burns/) - All Levels TBD Materials and Studio Fees* Throughout history, blacksmiths have made their own tools, among them the “blacksmith’s knife.” Typically, this is an all-metal knife that could be produced without any woodworking tools, as one would in a blacksmith’s shop. This modern take on the blacksmith’s knife adds the element of being a folding
- [Introduction to Wheel Throwing w/ Liana Agnew](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/introduction-to-wheel-throwing-w-liana-agnew/) - No Experience-Beginner $45-$95 Materials and Studio Fees* Discover the fundamentals of wheel throwing in this hands-on weekend workshop designed for beginners. Learn the foundations on how to properly center clay, pull walls, and create simple forms at your own pace. You'll be guided through each step with demonstrations, individual support, and the time to develop
- [Cloisonné with a Twist w/ Beth deVitry](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/cloisonne-with-a-twist-w-beth-devitry/) - All Levels $105-$155 Materials and Studio Fees* Learn the basics of enameling on fine silver. Over the course of three days, participants will create a beautiful cloisonné enamel piece from start to finish. The workshop will cover preparing the silver for enameling, bending the fine silver wire, applying and firing the enamels, and various polishing
- [Date Night (August 21): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-august-21-medium-tbd-2/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Community Class: Handbuilding and Surface Design](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/community-class-handbuilding-and-surface-design/) - Beginner-No ExperienceTuition includes one 25 lbs. bag of clayIn this 4-session class, we will be exploring the relationship between form and surface design through hand-built ceramics. Beginner students will be introduced to basic techniques for hand-building and decorating plates and mugs, while returning students will be encouraged to incorporate new surface techniques into their work.
- [Raising Red Metals w/ Glen Gardner](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/raising-red-metals-w-glen-gardner/) - All Levels TBD Materials and Studio Fees* This hands-on workshop focuses on innovative methods for raising, forming, and coloring copper. Throughout the course, students will explore hammer raising, as well as the patination and tinning of copper. Time will also be devoted to designing and making related tools. The techniques taught in this class introduce
- [Bronze Forging w/ Mak Henriksen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/bronze-forging-w-mak-henriksen/) - No Experience-Beginner TBD Materials and Studio Fees* In this introductory bronze forging workshop, participants will learn basic forging techniques such as tapering, spreading, upsetting, punching holes, bending, and twisting, using silicon bronze. Participants will learn the similarities and differences between silicon bronze and steel through a series of small projects that utilize gas forges, torches,
- [Date Night (September 25): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-september-25-medium-tbd/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (September 11): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-september-11-medium-tbd/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (August 21): Metals & Jewelry](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-august-21-medium-tbd/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Community Wood Firing (Oct 3-5) w/ Dan Tomcik & Meghan Burke](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/community-wood-firing-oct-3-5-w-dan-tomcik-meghan-burke/) - Kiln unload is Sunday, October 11.Only 7 spaces are available... Don't wait to sign up! Meals are not available for this session. Dorm lodging available.Participants bring their bisque-fired works, Touchstone provides all other wood firing materials. **Make sure to review the Community Wood Firings info page on our website for full details regarding kiln shifts,
- [Community Class: Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/community-class-blacksmithing-2/) - No Experience-BeginnerMaterials Included In this 4-session class, we will learn the fundamentals of toolmaking for the blacksmith shop. Students will forge punches, chisels and a pair of tongs. In the process, students will learn forging processes such as: isolating material, rivets, refining tapers, grinding and basic hardening and tempering. Each participant will get to explore
- [Soft Geometry with Clay Slabs w/ Taylor Mezo](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/soft-geometry-with-clay-slabs-w-taylor-mezo/) - Beginner-Intermediate $80-$130 Materials and Studio Fees* During this workshop, participants will gain proficiency in vessel construction with medium leather hard slabs. Specifically, we will discuss using paper templates to create repeatable forms, and design our own templates to test out. We will cover techniques such as: rolling and compressing a slab, miter angle cuts and
- [Chasing & Repoussé: Finding Relief w/ Maria Camera-Smith](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/chasing-repousse-finding-relief-w-maria-camera-smith/) - Beginner-Intermediate $100-$150 Materials and Studio Fees* Participants will be introduced to basic chasing and repoussé techniques using chasing tools, hammers, and pitch. Instruction will cover creating volume and relief from a flat sheet of metal, how to appropriately texture metal for chasing and repoussé techniques, and how to define desired forms to achieve crisp imagery.
- [Date Night (October 2): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-october-2-medium-tbd/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Stencils and Templates for Ceramics w/ Shalya Marsh](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/stencils-and-templates-for-ceramics-w-shalya-marsh/) - No Experience-Beginner $90-$140 Materials and Studio Fees* In this hands-on workshop, Shalya will demonstrate her unique strategies for using craft cutters to create stencils for dynamic ceramic surfaces. You will learn how to design digitally or by hand, then seamlessly transfer your drawings to a craft cutter to create stencils, templates, and more. Demonstrations will
- [Glass Marble Making Clinic w/ Michael Mangiafico](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/glass-marble-making-clinic-w-michael-mangiafico/) - All Levels $60-$110 Materials and Studio Fees* In this workshop, we will utilize soda lime or soft glass manipulating it with the flame from a bench torch into marbles of various designs.*Materials and studio fees are charged to students based on studio usage and materials Touchstone is providing at the request of the instructor. Additionally,
- [Forging for Jewelry w/ Heather Liverman](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/forging-for-jewelry-w-heather-liverman/) - All Levels $70-$120 Materials and Studio Fees* Explore the art of forging as a tool for jewelry making. In this two-day intensive workshop, attendees will learn foundational forging techniques such as tapering, scrolling, and shaping copper rod/wire and sheet. Projects include creating a forged and twisted cuff bracelet, and a forged leaf pendant. Participants will
- [Luscious Color on Metal w/ Andrew Thornton](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/luscious-color-on-metal-w-andrew-thornton/) - All Levels $45-$95 Materials and Studio Fees* Want to give your metalwork a POP of color? This workshop demystifies the process of surface embellishment with colored pencils and other cold applications. This is an easy, affordable, and accessible process that will make your pieces really stand out. No drawing skills required!*Materials and studio fees are
- [Understory Alphabetica: Woodland Curiosities w/ Margaret Saylor](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/understory-alphabetica-woodland-curiosities-w-margaret-saylor/) - All Levels $20-$40 Materials and Studio Fees* Step into the vibrant September woodlands of Western Pennsylvania for a two-day workshop, “Understory Alphabetica: Woodland Curiosities.” Discover mushrooms, fungi, mosses, and forest floor plants as you create an A–Z sketchbook, each page dedicated to a different woodland subject selected by its common name. Mornings feature guided forest
- [Anything Can Be A Thread w/ Noelani Jones](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/anything-can-be-a-thread-w-noelani-jones/) - Beginner-Intermediate$20-$40 Materials and Studio Fees* This workshop is designed for anyone who has a desire to weave in a creative, artistic way of making. Beginners are welcome! Noelani believes anything can be a thread and anyone can be a weaver. The instruction will focus on teaching methods for warping and weaving with a wooden frame
- [The Bainbridge Method: Encaustic Awakening w/ Freddie Bainbridge](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/the-bainbridge-method-encaustic-awakening-w-freddie-bainbridge/) - All Levels $185-$235 Materials and Studio Fees* The Bainbridge Method: Encaustic Awakening is a three-day immersive workshop introducing attendees to the transformative possibilities of wax, heat, pigment, and photographic memory. Participants begin with foundational techniques on small cradle boards and progress into creating larger, layered encaustic artworks that reflect their own personal narrative. The workshop
- [Sculptural Teapots Using Press Molds and Slabs w/ Derek Decker](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/sculptural-teapots-using-press-molds-and-slabs-w-derek-decker/) - Intermediate-Advanced $55-$105 Materials and Studio Fees* Take your work to another level utilizing press molds and slabs.In this workshop, you will learn how to make plaster textured slabs and press molds that can enhance your work whether your interest is in functional pottery or sculpture.*Materials and studio fees are charged to students based on studio
- [Needle Felting Family Vines w/ Annette Eshelman](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/needle-felting-family-vines-w-annette-eshelman/) - All Levels $50-$80 Materials and Studio Fees* Get inspired by nature and create a composition of vines that extends beyond the frame, all while learning the art of needle felting. In this workshop, participants will learn needle felting techniques, as well as the best wools and needles to use for this art medium. Participants should
- [Date Night (August 7): Mystery Medium](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-august-7-mystery-medium/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Porcelain Demystified w/ Bryan Hopkins](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/porcelain-demystified-w-bryan-hopkins/) - All Levels | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* In this 5-day workshop, Bryan Hopkins will share his 30+ years of working with porcelain, including low fire porcelain (!), techniques for translucence, surface manipulation, combining coil/slab/thrown/slipcast parts, and history of porcelain. There will be informative discussions and daily exercises geared toward finding inspiration through personal exploration
- [Kids' 5-Day Summer Camp: Ages 10-13](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/kids-5-day-summer-camp-ages-10-13/) - All Skill Levels Ages 6-9Get ready to sample multiple materials while exploring different ideas and concepts. Throughout this 5-day arts camp you will create a variety of different works that include ceramics, sculpture, drawing, painting and design.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch each day to eat during breaktime.
- [Sift, Sift, and Away w/ Zachery Lechtenberg](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/sift-sift-and-away-w-zachery-lechtenberg/) - All Levels | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* This workshop is for anyone that wants more than just a pop of color! Participants will learn to apply imagery and pattern through a basic understanding of sifted enamel. We will start the week with an introduction on how to prep metals, sift enamels, and use kilns
- [Kids' 5-Day Summer Camp: Ages 6-9](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/kids-5-day-summer-camp-ages-6-9/) - All Skill Levels Ages 6-9Get ready to sample multiple materials while exploring different ideas and concepts. Throughout this 5-day arts camp you will create a variety of different works that include ceramics, sculpture, drawing, painting and design.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch each day to eat during breaktime.
- [A Closer Look at Nature w/ Robin Menard](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/a-closer-look-at-nature-w-robin-menard-2/) - All Levels | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* Surround yourself in art and nature as we take a closer look at the common things all around us – leaves, branches, tree bark, fungi – whatever inspires you! Botanical illustration differs from all other forms of illustration in that it involves very close observation and scientifically
- [Fire and Glass: Beadmaking and More w/ Joy Knepp](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/fire-and-glass-beadmaking-and-more-w-joy-knepp/) - Beginner - Intermediate | $80-$130 Materials and Studio Fees* Learn how to heat, melt and shape rods of glass into glass beads and small sculptures. You will be guided through a variety of techniques using the torch, tools, enamels, and more to enhance your glass designs. Return home inspired with skills to add to your
- [Hammer Time w/ Anna Koplik](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/hammer-time-w-anna-koplik/) - Intermediate | $205 - $255 Materials and Studio Fees* Come make your own custom hammers that you can use for a lifetime! In this intensive workshop, participants will be guided through making multiple sizes and styles of blacksmith forging hammers. We will cover forging different styles of hammers, including cross peen and rounding hammers, grinding
- [Thrown and Combined Form w/ Seth Green](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/thrown-and-combined-form-w-seth-green/) - All Levels | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* Take your vessels to the next level during this workshop by learning how to throw and combine multiple forms. Bring complex forms to fruition and expand your abilities to create vessels that you previously thought were impossible. This workshop will include wheel-throwing and assembly demonstrations as well
- [Bladesmithing - Drop Point Hunter with Sheath w/ Lisa Lofdahl](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/bladesmithing-drop-point-hunter-with-sheath-w-lisa-lofdahl/) - All Levels | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* In this five-day workshop, participants will learn how to forge and finish a full-tang knife in the style of a drop point hunter and also how to work with Kydex to create a custom-fit sheath for their knife. All aspects of knifemaking will be covered, including shop
- [Kids' Weekend Art Camp: Ages 6-9](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/kids-weekend-art-camp-ages-6-9/) - All Skill Levels Ages 6-9Get ready to sample multiple materials while exploring different ideas and concepts. Throughout this 2-day arts camp you will create a variety of different mediums that include sculpture, drawing, painting and design.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch each day to eat during breaktime.
- [Kids' Weekend Art Camp: Ages 10-13](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/kids-weekend-art-camp-ages-10-13/) - All Skill Levels Ages 10-13Get ready to sample multiple materials while exploring different ideas and concepts. Throughout this 2-day arts camp you will create a variety of different works that include sculpture, drawing, painting and design.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch each day to eat during breaktime.
- [Date Night (July 24): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-july-24-medium-tbd/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Going Big with Large Scale Coil Building w/ Samantha Oliver](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/ceramics-workshop-tbd-w-samantha-oliver/) - Intermediate-Advanced | $80-$130 Materials and Studio Fees* From towering onggi pots in Korea, to elegant coil pots from Central Mexico; coil building is one of the earliest methods used to create ceramic vessels. In this process-based workshop, we will cover the basics of coil building with both small and large coils, learn controlled techniques to
- [Illuminate Your Work: Saw Solder & Champlevé w/ Ashley Gilreath](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/illuminate-your-work-saw-solder-champleve-w-ashley-gilreath/) - All Levels | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* Champlevé is a specialized process whereby the artist inlays and fires enamels into recessed areas of a metal surface. Utilizing the saw and solder champlevé method, begin by piercing a design with a jeweler's saw in metal, then solder this design onto a secondary metal background creating
- [Ephemeral Mapping with Handmade Paper Making w/ Katy DeMent](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/ephemeral-mapping-with-handmade-paper-making-w-katy-dement-2/) - All Levels | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* No material is arbitrary as we create ephemeral records of time and place. We will explore fiber processing, beating invasive and reclaimed materials to a pulp, crafting handmade paper sheets made of the plants and other materials we collect from the Touchstone campus creating literal or representational
- [Date Night (July 10): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-july-10-medium-tbd/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (May 29): Glass](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-may-29-glass-2/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Integral Chef Knife w/ Nick Rossi](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/integral-chef-knife-w-nick-rossi/) - Intermediate | $145 - $195 Materials and Studio Fees*Knives with an integrated bolster (where the bolster is forged out of the same material as the blade) are prized by chefs for their strength and balance. This design provides a unique challenge for the bladesmith and a great degree of satisfaction when completed. In this 5-day
- [Imagery on Stained Glass w/ Joseph Cavalieri](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/imagery-on-stained-glass-w-joseph-cavalieri-2/) - No Experience - Beginner | $225-$275 Materials and Studio Fees* Learn and practice how to add detailed images to your stained glass works. You will be taught processes including cutting glass, airbrushing glass (using an atomizer and airbrush), pen and ink drawing, silkscreen printing (with existing screens the instructor will bring), and painting glass. No
- [Capturing Human Likeness in Clay w/ Curt LaCross](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/capturing-human-likeness-in-clay-w-curt-lacross/) - All Levels | $95-$145 Materials and Studio Fees* Join Curt LaCross in an intensive hands-on workshop where he will demonstrate innovative methods for fabricating striking life-like clay subjects. Participants will learn to work on an armature, explore facial anatomy, and develop their concepts. The workshop includes refining sculptures and understanding LaCross's post-firing processes for achieving
- [Sculptural Surfaces: Acrylic Gels, Mediums, and Pastes w/ Narong Tintamusik](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/sculptural-surfaces-acrylic-gels-mediums-and-pastes-w-narong-tintamusik/) - All Levels | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* This workshop invites anyone interested in expanding their surface vocabulary and exploring the sculptural potential of acrylic mediums, gels, and pastes. Through hands-on demonstrations and guided exercises, participants will investigate glazing, adhesion, skin making, sealing, collage, and low-relief texturing. Participants will experiment with embedding unconventional materials such
- [Date Night (June 26): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-june-26-medium-tbd/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [2025 Kids' Weekend Art Camp: Ages 6-9](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-kids-weekend-art-camp-ages-6-9/) - All Skill Levels Ages 6-9Get ready to sample multiple materials while exploring different ideas and concepts. Throughout this 2-day arts camp you will create a variety of different works that include ceramics, sculpture, drawing, painting and design.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch each day to eat during breaktime.
- [Flux Burns and Objects of Importance w/ Pete Braspenninx](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/blacksmithing-workshop-tbd-w-pete-braspenninx/) - Intermediate | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* In this workshop we will be focusing on the skills of the craft to help flush out and support ideas of concept.A focus on forge welding skills and options, to help in the process of constructing objects of importance for each of the participants. We will have instructor
- [Lockets and Small Boxes w/ Maureen Duffy](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/metals-jewelry-workshop-tbd-w-maureen-duffy/) - All Levels | TBD Materials and Studio Fees* Discover new fabrication and soldering techniques while creating a unique locket or small box. Beginning with a basic hollow-form shape, participants will learn the steps to construct a box or locket featuring a hinge and clasp. You can personalize your piece by choosing to include a photo,
- [Clay for Kids: Ages 5-8](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/clay-for-kids-ages-5-8/) - All Skill Levels Ages 5-8Get ready to sample clay while exploring different ideas and concepts. In this one-day class you will learn the basics of working in the ceramics medium. You will create one of a kind works of art that will then be glazed and fired. *Does not include lunch. Students should bring a
- [Blacksmithing for Kids: Ages 11-13](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/blacksmithing-for-kids-ages-11-13/) - All Skill Levels Ages 11-13Get ready to experience the vast world of blacksmithing, while learning the basics of working with iron. In this one-day class, you will explore fun and exciting techniques to create one of a kind works of art.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch to eat during breaktime.
- [Clay for Kids: Ages 9-13](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/clay-for-kids-ages-9-13/) - All Skill Levels Ages 9-13Get ready to sample clay while exploring different ideas and concepts. In this one-day class you will learn the basics of working in the ceramics medium. You will create one of a kind works of art that will then be glazed and fired. *Does not include lunch. Students should bring a
- [ABANA Level I Instructor Intensive w/ Victoria Ritter & Becky Schimpff](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/blacksmithing-workshop-tbd-w-victoria-ritter-becky-schimpff/) - Intermediate | $95 - $145 Materials and Studio Fees* Blacksmithing instructors and blacksmiths who are thinking about teaching, this is the workshop for you! The National Curriculum requirements for Level I and parts of Level II will be covered, along with tips and tricks for teaching beginner blacksmiths. Allotted hands-on studio time will be a
- [Drawing with Clay w/ Maggie Boyd](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/ceramics-workshop-tbd-w-maggie-boyd/) - All Levels | $100-$150 Materials and Studio Fees*In Drawing with Clay, we will explore ways to incorporate drawing into our ceramic works- both in our forms and surfaces. Over five days we will start with drawing to loosen up (if this sounds like a nightmare because drawing makes you tense up instead of relax, don’t
- [Date Night (June 12): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-june-12-ceramics/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (May 29): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-may-29-blacksmithing/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (May 15): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-may-15-ceramics/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (May 15): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-may-15-blacksmithing/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Community Class: Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/community-class-blacksmithing/) - No Experience-BeginnerMaterials IncludedIn this 4-session class*, we will explore the fundamentals of blacksmithing. Through the creation of several different projects, you will learn many different processes such as; tapering, twisting, punching holes, bending and upsetting steel to create shapes and forms. Each participant will get to explore their own unique creativity and walk away with
- [Community Class: Introduction to Wheel Throwing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/community-class-introduction-to-wheel-throwing/) - Beginner-No ExperienceTuition includes one 25 lbs. bag of clayIn this 4-session class*, we will dive headfirst into the fundamentals of wheel thrown pottery. By creating functional work through experimenting with cups, mugs, bowls, and vases, we will learn the basic techniques and skills to create wheel thrown pottery. We will also explore the world of
- [Date Night (May 23): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-may-23-blacksmithing/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (May 16): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-may-16-ceramics/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (May 16): Glass](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-may-16-glass/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (May 23): Metals & Jewelry](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-may-23-metals-jewelry/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (October 3): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-october-7-ceramics-or-glass/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (October 3): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-october-7-ceramics/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (September 26): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-september-26-blacksmithing/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [2025 Try It! (Saturday, September 13): Metals & Jewelry](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-try-it-saturday-september-13-metals-jewelry/) - All Levels - No Experience Needed! (Ages 14+) Materials Fees Included Have you ever wanted to try your hand at working in a craft medium? In these exciting 1-day (4-hour) workshops, you will learn new techniques and processes while creating hands-on projects in the medium of your choosing. Try It workshops are for participants of
- [Date Night (September 12): Glass](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-september-12-ceramics-or-glass/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [2025 Community Class: Introduction to Hand Building](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-community-class-introduction-to-hand-building/) - Beginner/No ExperienceIn this 4-session class, we will be diving headfirst into the fundamentals of hand-built ceramics. We'll cover the three core techniques of hand building and explore both functional and sculptural forms. Students will be guided through building, glazing, and finishing their pieces, leaving the class with completed works and a deeper understanding of the
- [Member Open Studio Nights (Blacksmithing)](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-open-studio-nights-blacksmithing/) - Monday and Wednesday Evenings, from 6:00pm-9:00pm Starting September 3 through September 24, 2025.Touchstone is opening the blacksmith studio two nights per week in September to any Touchstone Member who has taken a blacksmithing class with us. During open studio nights, you can use the forges, grinders, and other tools in the workshop to complete your
- [2025 Community Class: Introduction to Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-community-class-introduction-to-blacksmithing-2/) - Beginner/No Experience In this 4-session class, we will explore the fundamentals of blacksmithing. Students will forge hooks and a coat rack during class, and can explore more projects during the included free open studio hours. Through creating these projects, students will learn many different processes such as tapering, twisting, punching holes, and bending steel to
- [Date Night (August 29): Metals & Jewelry](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-august-29-small-metals/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (August 15): Mystery Medium](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-august-15-mystery-medium/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (August 1): Drawing & Painting](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-august-1-drawing-painting/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (August 1): Metals & Jewelry](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-august-1-drawing-painting-or-small-metals/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Willow Basketry: A Study of Stake & Strand w/ Dan Brockett](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/willow-basketry-a-study-of-stake-strand-w-dan-brockett-2/) - All Levels* $275 Materials and Studio Fees** Discover and explore the fundamentals of stake and strand basketry using willow that is grown, harvested, and processed on nearby Foggy Blossom Farm. Skills covered will include the construction of a base, wale, side weaves, borders, handles and feet. Depending on time, space, and interest, there may be
- [2025 Kids' Weekend Art Camp: Ages 10-13](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-kids-weekend-art-camp-ages-10-13/) - All Skill Levels Ages 10-13Get ready to sample multiple materials while exploring different ideas and concepts. Throughout this 2-day arts camp you will create a variety of different works that include ceramics, sculpture, drawing, painting and design.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch each day to eat during breaktime.
- [Date Night (July 18): Glass](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-july-18-glass/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (July 18): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-july-18-glass-or-ceramics/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (June 27): Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-june-27-blacksmithing/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [The Therapeutic Art of Mask-Making w/ Geoffrey Bowton](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/the-therapeutic-art-of-mask-making-w-geoffrey-bowton-2/) - Intermediate* TBD Materials and Studio Fee*Explore the therapeutic benefits of mask-making as a creative outlet for enhancing mental health. Through the process of designing and creating masks, individuals can express complex emotions, thoughts, and identities that are often difficult to articulate verbally. This hands-on activity allows participants to delve into their subconscious and confront inner
- [Come Dancing w/ Pattie Chalmers](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/come-dancing-w-pattie-chalmers-2/) - All Levels* $120-$170 Materials and Studio Fees** This fast-paced workshop taught by Pattie Chalmers will focus on the dance between ceramic surface and form. Chalmers will lead with instruction in handbuilding forms using coiling, pinching, slab, and slumping, then follow by sharing methods of creating imagery and decorating that can be used on either pottery
- [Eastern Chef Knife w/ Nick Rossi](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/eastern-chef-knife-w-nick-rossi-3/) - All Levels* $100-$150 Materials and Studio Fees* In this dynamic and challenging workshop, you will complete a Japanese-influenced chef knife from start to finish. All aspects of knifemaking will be covered, including coal forge operation, forging, basic metallurgy, handle construction and design. The goal is that you will leave with a finished, sharpened knife ready
- [Sculptural Basketry w/ Sarita Westrup](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/sculptural-basketry-w-sarita-westrup-2/) - All Levels TBD Materials and Studio Fees* In this experimental basketry workshop, participants will learn methods for building nonfunctional forms with reed, wire, waxed linen, and anything they bring with them. We will focus on techniques such as twining, looping, and knotted netting. To build textural surfaces on these forms, we will work with thin-set
- [The Alchemy of Enamel: Transformations in Color and Glass w/ Barbara McFadyen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/the-alchemy-of-enamel-transformations-in-color-and-glass-w-barbara-mcfadyen-2/) - All Levels* $220-$270 Materials and Studio Fees** Transform your ideas, drawings, or personal photos into lustrous enameled surfaces as you explore mark making, painting, and drawing to capture your inspirations with the exciting possibilities in the colorful world of enameling. You will explore dry sifting, stenciling, silk screens, and sgraffito in combination with painting and
- [2025 Clay for Kids (1-Day Workshop): Ages 9-13](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-clay-for-kids-1-day-workshop-ages-9-13/) - All Skill Levels Ages 9-13Get ready to sample clay while exploring different ideas and concepts. In this one-day class, you will learn the basics of working in the ceramics medium. You will create one-of-a-kind works which will then be glazed and fired.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch to eat during breaktime.
- [2025 Blacksmithing for Kids (1-Day Workshop): Ages 11-13](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-blacksmithing-for-kids-1-day-workshop-ages-11-13/) - All Skill Levels Ages 11-13Get ready to experience the vast world of blacksmithing, while learning the basics of working with iron. In this one-day class, you will explore fun and exciting techniques to create one of a kind works of art.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch to eat during breaktime.
- [2025 Clay for Kids (1-Day Workshop): Ages 5-8](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-clay-for-kids-1-day-workshop-ages-5-8/) - All Skill Levels Ages 5-8Get ready to sample clay while exploring different ideas and concepts. In this one-day class, you will learn the basics of working in the ceramics medium. You will create one-of-a-kind works which will then be glazed and fired.*Does not include lunch. Students should bring a bagged lunch to eat during breaktime.
- [Date Night (June 13): Metals & Jewelry](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-june-13-small-metals/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [Date Night (June 13): Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/date-night-june-13-small-metals-or-ceramics/) - No Experience Necessary Ages 18+Bring a partner and join us for this 2-hour mini workshop, designed to introduce you to a variety of craft processes and media. Date nights focus on blacksmithing, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing/painting, and other special topics. Projects will be determined a few weeks prior to the event.Check-in will be held from
- [2025 Work Exchange Program](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-work-exchange-program/) - *READ IN FULL BEFORE COMMITTING*The Work Exchange Program at Touchstone allows for ONE workshop participant during EACH grouping of 5-day, 3-day, and 2-day sessions throughout the season to work within the dining hall in exchange for lodging. Lodging is provided based on availability and at Touchstone's discretion. Scholarship recipients are given preference for the program;
- [2025 Community Class: Introduction to Wheel Throwing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-community-class-introduction-to-wheel-throwing/) - Beginner/No ExperienceIn this 4-session class, we will be diving headfirst into the fundamentals of wheel throwing. By creating functional work through experimenting with cups, mugs, bowls, and vases, we will learn the basic techniques and skills to create wheel thrown pottery. We will also be exploring the world of color and texture, as we investigate
- [2025 Community Class: Introduction to Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/workshop/2025-community-class-introduction-to-blacksmithing/) - Beginner/No ExperienceIn this 4-session class, we will be exploring the fundamentals of blacksmithing. Through the creation of several different projects, you will learn many different processes such as; tapering, twisting, punching holes, bending and upsetting steel to create shapes and forms. Each participant will get to explore their own unique creativity and walk away with

## Events

- [Open House: August 5](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/open-house-august-5/) - Open House At Touchstone by the Falls, Ohiopyle, PA August 5, 2026 | 5–6:30 PMFree and open to all Come check out Touchstone by the Falls on Wednesday, August 5. See the new space, meet some interesting people, enjoy a beverage and shop before Ohiopyle's Community Concert featuring Ferncliff Collective. Meet and Greet and shopping
- [Meditation and Creativity: Aug. 5](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/meditation-and-creativity-2/) - with Robert Hensley Nature Reconnect at Touchstone Center for Crafts, Farmington (Museum Space) This is a unique meditation exercise, combining meditation, sound therapy, and neurographic art. Experience relaxation, increased focus, and conscious awareness with forest therapy guide Robert Hensley. You may choose to bring a yoga mat or blanket to sit or lay on, and
- [Meditation and Creativity: Aug. 12](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/meditation-and-creativity-aug-12/) - with Robert Hensley Nature Reconnect at Touchstone Center for Crafts, Farmington (Museum Space) This is a unique meditation exercise, combining meditation, sound therapy, and neurographic art. Experience relaxation, increased focus, and conscious awareness with forest therapy guide Robert Hensley. You may choose to bring a yoga mat or blanket to sit or lay on, and
- [Maker Days: September 26](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/maker-days-september/) - Get Involved Apply to Host an Artist or Maker Booth Learn about booth options and special Member pricing. Apply for one or more dates. Artist and Maker Booth Applications Become a SponsorLearn how sponsorships help keep these events free and welcoming for everyone.LEARN MORE VolunteerHelp at Maker Days. Volunteering is fun and easy. LEARN MORE
- [Maker Days: October 10](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/maker-days-october/) - Get Involved Apply to Host an Artist or Maker Booth Learn about booth options and special Member pricing. Apply for one or more dates. Applications are free. Artist and Maker Booth Applications Become a SponsorLearn how sponsorships help keep these events free and welcoming for everyone.LEARN MORE VolunteerHelp at Maker Days. Volunteering is fun and
- [Meditation and Creativity: July 29](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/meditation-and-creativity/) - with Robert Hensley Nature Reconnect at Touchstone Center for Crafts, Farmington (Museum Space) This is a unique meditation exercise, combining meditation, sound therapy, and neurographic art. Experience relaxation, increased focus, and conscious awareness with forest therapy guide Robert Hensley. You may choose to bring a yoga mat or blanket to sit or lay on, and
- [Maker Days: July - Canceled](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/maker-days-july/) - Get Involved Apply to Host an Artist or Maker Booth Learn about booth options and special Member pricing. Apply for one or more dates. Artist and Maker Booth Applications Become a SponsorLearn how sponsorships help keep these events free and welcoming for everyone.LEARN MORE VolunteerHelp at Maker Days. Volunteering is fun and easy. LEARN MORE
- [Touchstone by the Falls Retail Gallery](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/touchstone-by-the-falls-retail-gallery/) - NOW OPEN Retail Gallery Hours (Touchstone by the Falls in Ohiopyle):Our retail gallery is now located at Touchstone by the Falls, 1 Sherman Street in Ohiopyle, PA. Regular hours are Thursday–Saturday, noon–8 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Additional hours may be offered during select Maker Days and special events.View upcoming Maker Days and events Planning a
- [America 250: Craft Today Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/america-250-craft-today-exhibition/) - MAY 11–JULY 25 Touchstone Center for Crafts presents America 250: Craft Today, a national juried exhibition celebrating the best of American contemporary craft. This program is part of Handwork 2026, presented by Craft in America. Learn about the exhibition Gallery Reception: Saturday, May 23, noon to 2 p.m. Planning a visit? Check gallery hours Please call 724-329-1370 to schedule a visit
- [America 250: Craft Today Gallery Reception](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/america-250-craft-today-reception/) - Gallery Reception: Saturday, May 23, noon to 2 p.m. Touchstone Center for Crafts presents America 250: Craft Today, a national juried exhibition celebrating the best of American contemporary craft. This program is part of Handwork 2026, presented by Craft in America. Learn about the exhibition Planning a visit? Check gallery hours Please call 724-329-1370 to schedule a visit outside scheduled gallery
- [Maker Days: June](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/maker-days-june/) - Get Involved Apply to Host an Artist or Maker Booth Learn about booth options and special Member pricing. Apply for one or more dates. Artist and Maker Booth Applications Become a SponsorLearn how sponsorships help keep these events free and welcoming for everyone.LEARN MORE VolunteerHelp at Maker Days. Volunteering is fun and easy. LEARN MORE
- [Maker Days: May](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/may-maker-days/) - Get Involved Apply to Host an Artist or Maker Booth Learn about booth options and special Member pricing. Apply for one or more dates. Artist and Maker Booth Applications Become a SponsorLearn how sponsorships help keep these events free and welcoming for everyone.LEARN MORE VolunteerHelp at Maker Days. Volunteering is fun and easy. LEARN MORE
- [Tissue Farm Holiday Artisan Fair 2025](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/tissue-farm-holiday-artisan-fair-2025/) - Shop for the holidays and support local & regional artists & craftspeople! Tissue Farm is located just 30 minutes from Touchstone in Confluence, PA This is the perfect opportunity to find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts or treat yourself to something special. You’ll find a curated selection of handcrafted items from Touchstone Center for Crafts’ Retail Gallery,
- [Winter Showcase & Gallery Reception](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/winter-showcase-2025/) - Step into a world of creativity at Touchstone’s annual Winter Showcase! Please join us at our Farmington, PA location and discover unique, handcrafted gifts from regional and national artists, along with work by Touchstone instructors, interns, staff, and friends. Our gallery and retail space is filled with one-of-a-kind pieces perfect for treating yourself or finding
- [Fayette County Liberty Bell Unveiling Ceremony](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/fayette-county-liberty-bell-unveiling-ceremony/) - Announcement: Touchstone Center for Crafts is creating a public artwork, a sculptural bell, to honor Fayette County, PA’s history as part of the statewide Bells Across PA initiative commemorating the U.S. Semiquincentennial in 2026. Each county in Pennsylvania will receive its own bell, and a statewide map will be available to guide visitors to each
- [Union Trust Makers Market 2025](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/union-trust-makers-market-2025/) - Join us for a pop-up holiday shopping event in the beautiful Union Trust Building in downtown Pittsburgh. You'll find a curated selection of handcrafted items from Touchstone Center for Crafts' Retail Gallery, alongside works from other talented regional artists. Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.in the Union Trust Building LobbyAddress: 501 Grant
- [2025 Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/2025-events/) - Get ready for an incredible lineup of 2025 events—stay tuned as we unveil the exciting details! Please check back as more events are being added. 2025 Event Schedule Tuesday, January 21 | 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.Scholarship Benefit Dinnerat Eleven Contemporary Kitchen in Pittsburgh's Strip District February 21-232025 American Craft Made BaltimoreBaltimore, MD March 26-29NCECA
- [Ten X Ten X Ten Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/ten-x-ten-x-ten/) - Allegheny Metals Collective 10th Anniversary Exhibition Learn about the exhibition Planning a visit? Check gallery hours Please call 724-329-1370 to schedule a visit outside scheduled gallery hours.
- [2025 Touchstone Members Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/2025-touchstone-member-exhibition/) - We’re celebrating the incredible talent and support of our creative community! Artwork pictured by Kade HB. Learn about the exhibition Planning a visit? Check gallery hours Please call 724-329-1370 to schedule a visit outside scheduled gallery hours.
- [SEPT 27: Touchstone by the Falls Ohiopyle Community Pop-Up Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/sept-27-touchstone-by-the-falls-ohiopyle-community-pop-up-events/) - Thank You to Our Event Sponsors Drs. Paul & Diane Kiproff Admission is free and open to allRain or shine Touchstone Center for Crafts is bringing creativity to the heart of Ohiopyle! Visit us at 1 Sherman Street (the former Falls City Church) for a free pop-up event series at the new home of Touchstone
- [OCT 11: Touchstone by the Falls Ohiopyle Community Pop-Up Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/oct-11-touchstone-by-the-falls-ohiopyle-community-pop-up-events/) - Thank You to Our Event Sponsors Drs. Paul & Diane Kiproff Admission is free and open to allRain or shine Touchstone Center for Crafts is bringing creativity to the heart of Ohiopyle! Visit us at 1 Sherman Street (the former Falls City Church) for a free pop-up event series at the new home of Touchstone
- [The Figure in Craft Gallery Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/the-figure-in-craft-gallery-exhibition/) - Click to learn about the exhibition Gallery Hours: Open Tuesday–Saturday, 11 AM–4 PM. The galleries will be closed on the following dates for special events: Saturday, August 16 Saturday, September 27 Saturday, October 11 On these dates, staff will be at our Ohiopyle location: 1 Sherman Street (former Falls City Church) for free pop-up events. Visit
- [Veteran Obsolete Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/veteran-obsolete-exhibition/) - Artist: Geoffrey Bowton An exhibition of works in glass by U.S. Army Sergeant and combat veteran, Geoffrey Bowton. Geoffrey draws inspiration from his military background and deployment experiences in the Middle East in his studio practice. His work delves into the complexities of war, post-traumatic stress, and mental wellness, offering a profound exploration of these
- [Born in Fire Gallery Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/5215/) - Click to learn about the exhibition Gallery Hours: Open Tuesday–Saturday, 11 AM–4 PM. The galleries will be closed on the following dates for special events: Saturday, August 16 Saturday, September 27 Saturday, October 11 On these dates, staff will be at our Ohiopyle location: 1 Sherman Street (former Falls City Church) for free pop-up events. Visit
- [AUG 16: Touchstone by the Falls Ohiopyle Community Pop-Up Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/touchstone-by-the-falls-2025-community-pop-up-events-3/) - Thank You to Our Event Sponsors Drs. Paul & Diane Kiproff Want to support creativity in Ohiopyle? Learn how sponsorships help keep these events free and welcoming for everyone. LEARN MORE in Ohiopyle, PA 11 AM–4 PMSelect Saturdays, May–OctoberAdmission is free and open to allRain or shine Touchstone Center for Crafts is bringing creativity to
- [Veteran Obsolete and The Art of Grieving](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/veteran-obsolete-and-the-art-of-grieving/) - This Friday, July 25, at 2 pm, the InterPlay troupe The Wing and a Prayer Pittsburgh Players will offer a creative response to the exhibition through storytelling, movement, and music. The company is directed by Sheila K. Collins, author of The Art of Grieving: How Art and Artmaking Help Us Grieve and Live Our Best Lives.The program is free and open
- [Touchstone by the Falls: 2025 Community Pop-Up Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/touchstone-by-the-falls-2025-community-pop-up-events-2/) - Thank You to Our Event Sponsors Want to support creativity in Ohiopyle? Learn how sponsorships help keep these events free and welcoming for everyone. LEARN MORE in Ohiopyle, PA 11 AM–4 PMSelect Saturdays, May–OctoberAdmission is free and open to allRain or shine Touchstone Center for Crafts is bringing creativity to the heart of Ohiopyle! Visit
- [Elemental Meditation & Sound Bath](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/elemental-meditation-sound-bath-2/) - Touchstone Center for Crafts (Museum Space) Nature-based meditations have been proven to have a variety of mental and physical health benefits; from lowering stress and reducing the production of cortisol to lowering blood pressure, from increasing focus and cognitive functions to increasing self-esteem, among others. Robert Hensley Nature Reconnect is hosting an Elemental Meditation &
- [Touchstone by the Falls: 2025 Community Pop-Up Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/touchstone-by-the-falls-2025-community-pop-up-events/) - in Ohiopyle, PA 11 AM–4 PMSelect Saturdays, May–OctoberAdmission is free and open to allRain or shine Touchstone Center for Crafts is bringing creativity to the heart of Ohiopyle! Visit us at 1 Sherman Street (the former Falls City Church) for a free pop-up event series at the new home of Touchstone by the Falls—a space
- [Elemental Meditation & Sound Bath](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/elemental-meditation-sound-bath/) - Touchstone Center for Crafts (Museum Space) Nature-based meditations have been proven to have a variety of mental and physical health benefits; from lowering stress and reducing the production of cortisol to lowering blood pressure, from increasing focus and cognitive functions to increasing self-esteem, among others. Robert Hensley Nature Reconnect is hosting an Elemental Meditation &
- ['Veteran Obsolete' Gallery Reception and Meet the Artist](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/veteran-obsolete-gallery-reception/) - You're invited for a special day at Touchstone Center for Crafts, featuring a public gallery reception for Veteran Obsolete and the opportunity to meet the artist, Geoffrey Bowton. This exhibition explores the artist’s military past and creative present through sculptural works that reflect resilience, transformation, and lived experience. The event is free and open to
- [Veteran Appreciation & Arts Day](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/veteran-appreciation-arts-day/) - A $0 option is available at checkout, as we do not want cost to be a barrier to participation. The suggested price is $35. This program is open to all interested adults—Veterans and their allies are encouraged to participate. Please register in advance.
- [2025 Exhibitions](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/2025-exhibitions/) - 2025 Exhibition Schedule Bea Campbell Gallery Visitors are welcome to stop by the galleries during our scheduled gallery hours. Gallery hours are subject to change; please verify before your visit. May-July 26Veteran ObsoleteArtist: Geoffrey Bowton August 2-October 4Born in FireFeaturing SPARC (Smiths for the Promotion of Accessibility, Representation, and Community) August 2-October 4The Figure in CraftNational
- [Free Your Mind Resources](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/free-your-mind-resources/) - Free Your Mind @Touchstone Free Your Mind, led by artist Theda Sandiford, is a public textile art project exploring personal stories of microaggressions through a multi-sensory installation. Displayed at Touchstone from May 17 – September 20, 2024, the installation invited visitors and workshop participants to reflect, read, and share their experiences. Theda also gave two artist
- [Geoffrey Bowton Artist Talk at Pittsburgh Glass Center](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/geoffrey-bowton-artist-talk-at-pittsburgh-glass-center/) - Join us at Pittsburgh Glass Center for an artist conversation with U.S. Army Sergeant and combat veteran Geoffrey Bowton. Geoffrey draws inspiration from his military background and deployment experiences in the Middle East in his studio practice. His glass work delves into the complexities of war, post-traumatic stress, and mental wellness, offering a profound exploration of these themes.
- [Campus Clean-Up Kickoff](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/campus-cleanup-kickoff/) - Kick off Touchstone’s Campus Clean-Up Week with a special volunteer session on Sunday, April 27! Help us tidy up our campus by clearing sticks, debris, and tackling simple cleaning tasks. This year, we’ve spread the clean-up opportunities across the week from April 27 to May 2, making it easier for you to choose the day(s)
- [Campus Clean-Up Week](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/campus-clean-up-week/) - Help us tidy up our campus by clearing sticks, debris, and tackling simple cleaning tasks. This year, we’ve spread the clean-up opportunities across the week from April 27 to May 2, making it easier for you to choose the day(s) that work best for your schedule. How to Participate: To confirm your participation, please complete
- [Forging Connections: SNAG & SIBs @ Touchstone](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/forging-connections-snag-sibs-touchstone/) - American Craft Made is the largest juried craft fair on the East Coast, attracting more than 10,000 dedicated collectors and enthusiasts. It features nearly 400 accomplished artists and makers alongside demonstrations, talks, and hands-on experiences.
- [American Craft Made Baltimore](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/american-craft-made-baltimore/) - American Craft Made is the largest juried craft fair on the East Coast, attracting more than 10,000 dedicated collectors and enthusiasts. It features nearly 400 accomplished artists and makers alongside demonstrations, talks, and hands-on experiences.
- [Tissue Farm Holiday Artisan Fair 2024](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/tissue-farm-holiday-artisan-fair/) - Shop for the holidays and support local & regional artists & craftspeople! Tissue Farm is located just 30 minutes from Touchstone in Confluence, PA This is the perfect opportunity to find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts or treat yourself to something special. List of artisans include: Art by Avalon from Addison PA Artwork on the Run //
- [Private Event - Deer Lake Happy Hour: rescheduled for Dec. 3, 2024](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/private-event-deer-lake-happy-hour/) - Due to the weather forecast, this event has been rescheduled from November 22 to December 3. This is a private event for residents of the Deer Lake community located in Wharton Township, Fayette County, PA Residents of the Deer Lake community are invited to bring a friend and join us for a happy hour of
- [Winter Showcase & Holiday Sale 2024](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/winter-showcase-holiday-sale-2/) - Step into a world of creativity at Touchstone’s annual Winter Showcase & Holiday Sale! Discover unique, handcrafted gifts by over 80 regional and national artists, including Touchstone instructors, interns, staff, and friends. Our expanded gallery and retail space feature a stunning array of one-of-a-kind pieces, perfect for treating yourself or finding that special gift for
- [Annual Open House 2024](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/annual-open-house-2024/) - The best day of the yearto visit our campus! Touchstone invites you to get creative on our campus at our annual Open House! This free, family-friendly event is THE day to visit Touchstone, where you can learn about our seasonal workshops and date nights, tour studios, watch artist demonstrations, shop artist pop-up shops, view gallery
- [Scholarship Benefit Dinner](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/scholarship-benefit-dinner/) - Due to the generosity of big Burrito Group, this evening gathering of friends and delicious food at Eleven Contemporary Kitchen will support of Touchstone's Scholarship Fund. Guests will meet and mingle with Touchstone’s executive director and event hosts, plus learn more about the organization and get a sneak preview of upcoming programs and a special
- [Union Trust Makers Market](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/union-trust-maker-market/) - Join us for a pop-up holiday shopping event in the beautiful Union Trust Building in downtown Pittsburgh. You'll find a curated selection of handcrafted items from Touchstone Center for Crafts' Retail Gallery, alongside works from other talented regional artists. Address: 501 Grant St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219
- [ACRE Uniontown Information Session](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/acre-uniontown-information-session/) - Bridgeway Capital's Alliance for Creative Rural Economies (ACRE) Are you a creative business based in Uniontown, PA? Bridgeway Capital’s Creative Business Accelerator (CBA) is bringing creativity-driven economic development to a community near you. Additional cohorts are available in Oil City, PA and State College, PA. More information at acrepartners.org Creativity is the key to building
- [Bea Campbell Gallery - Tessellate: Fitting Together](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/bea-campbell-gallery-tessellate-fitting-together/) - 2024 Intern Exhibition Click for gallery hours and to learn more
- [Fayette Gives Day](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/fayette-gives/) - About Fayette Gives Fayette Gives is a “day of giving” hosted by the Community Foundation of Fayette County that aims to build a stronger Fayette by engaging the community in philanthropy and supporting local charities. During this fundraising marathon, the public donates to participating charities and special incentives are offered to promote the excitement and
- [Intern Exhibition Reception - Tessellate: Fitting Together](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/tessellate-fitting-together/) - Please join us during the Winter Showcase & Holiday Sale to celebrate the accomplishments of our 2024 seasonal interns. Participating Artists: Andrew Welton Ren Higuera Morgan Winter Zachary Morphew Roxy Bridges Art Gibson Anissa White Chloe Miller Please note: Some interns may not be present. Learn more about the Exhibition 2024 Seasonal Interns
- [Free Your Mind @Touchstone](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/free-your-mind-touchstone/) - May 17 - September 20, 2024 Free Your Mind is a public textile art endeavor led by artist Theda Sandiford, with the objective of gathering, showcasing, embedding, and liberating personal narratives surrounding microaggressions through a multi-sensory installation. Microaggressions, those nuanced and sometimes unintentional daily interactions, convey hostile, derogatory, or negative messages or assumptions towards historically marginalized
- [Auböck Exhibition Luncheon & Panel Discussion](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/aubock-exhibition-luncheon-panel-discussion/) - Moderated by Justin Gunther, Vice President and Director of Fallingwater, and Brittany Reilly, Director of The Irving and Aaronel deRoy Gruber Foundation. More information will be available soon.
- [Free Your Mind - Artist Talks Part 1](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/free-your-mind-artist-talks-part-1/) - Visiting Artist: Theda Sandiford Join us on Zoom or in-person for these powerful and engaging artist talks (May 22 & September 24). This event is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the artist about the Free Your Mind art installation project at Touchstone, as Theda shares the creative journey and insights related to the
- [Free Your Mind - Artist Talks Part 2](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/event/free-your-mind-artist-talks-part-2/) - Visiting Artist: Theda Sandiford Join us on Zoom or in-person for these powerful and engaging artist talks (May 22 & September 24). This event is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the artist about the Free Your Mind art installation project at Touchstone, as Theda shares the creative journey and insights related to the

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [News](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/category/news/)
- [Artist Talks](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/category/artist-talks/)
- [Exhibitions](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/category/exhibitions/)
- [Instructor Feature](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/category/instructor-feature/)
- [Member Feature](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/category/member-feature/)
- [Travel](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/category/travel/)

## Tags

- [Exhibitions](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/tag/exhibitions/)
- [Artist Talks or Panels](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/tag/artist-talks-or-panels/)
- [Exhibition](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/tag/exhibition/)
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- [Geoffrey Bowton](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/tag/geoffrey-bowton/)
- [Veterans](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/tag/veterans/)
- [Art Therapy](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/tag/art-therapy/)
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- [fiber art](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/tag/fiber-art/)
- [needle felting](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/tag/needle-felting/)
- [Fiber Art International](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/tag/fiber-art-international/)
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## Mediums

- [Special Topics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/medium/special-topics/)
- [Ceramics](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/medium/ceramics/)
- [Blacksmithing](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/medium/blacksmithing/)
- [Metals & Jewelry](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/medium/metals-jewelry/)
- [Drawing & Painting](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/medium/drawing-painting/)
- [Glass](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/medium/glass/)
- [Date Nights](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/medium/date-nights/)
- [Youth & Teen](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/medium/youth-teen/)

## Event Categories

- [Exhibitions](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/events/category/exhibitions/)
- [Artist Talks](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/events/category/talks/)
- [Campus Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/events/category/campus-events/)
- [Off-site Events](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/events/category/off-site-events/)
- [Fundraiser](https://www.touchstonecrafts.org/events/category/fundraiser/)