Create Art from History: Freedom Summer Collage Workshop
Create Art from History: Freedom Summer Collage Workshop
September 20, 2025, 1:00P-3:00P ET
Studio Location:
515 22nd Street South, Studio 109
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
This private, three-hour workshop, designed for a maximum of four participants, offers a deeply personal and intimate experience. Artist Glenyse Thompson will guide you through creative activities, with dedicated time for you to work on your own art. This relaxed setting is perfect for both beginners and experienced artists to connect, share ideas, and create together while receiving meaningful conversation and one-on-one guidance.
Glenyse’ artwork, documents from the Freedom Summers, substrate and all items needed will be provided to create your 12x12 artwork. Feel free to bring ephemera or items you want to incorporate within the artwork.
Due to the nature of the materials offered and discussed in the workshop, ages 18 and older are encouraged for attendance
Arrival
This small group is welcomed with a selection of hors d'oeuvres, crudité, wine and soft-drinks. This initial period is dedicated to socializing, allowing everyone to settle in, meet fellow participants, and get comfortable with their workspace. This informal time sets a relaxed, "fun time for adults" tone for the afternoon.
Introduction and Topic Discussion
An overview of the workshop's theme will be provided, followed by a discussion of the 1964 Freedom Summer event, its historical significance, and the relationship between this movement and the related artwork. This segment serves as the conceptual foundation for participants' artistic activities.
Collage Techniques Discussion
This session opens with a demonstration of fundamental collage techniques, including layering, cutting, arranging, and securely attaching materials. There is also discussion on composition, visual balance, and expressing thematic storytelling through collage, equipping participants with both inspiration and practical tools for their artwork.
Creative Time
This is the core of the workshop, where participants independently create their 12"x12" collages. With only four participants, Glenyse can provide extensive one-on-one guidance and support, ensuring each person receives personalized feedback and attention.
Discussion and Wrap-Up
The workshop concludes with a facilitated group discussion. Participants are encouraged to share their newly completed artworks and reflect on their personal connection to the historical subject matter. This final "fun time" allows for communal appreciation of the work created and provides a meaningful closure to the experience.
FAQ
Dress comfortably. There will be paints available to incorporate into the art.
Framing and shipping services are offered at an additional charge.
Cancellations and refunds:
Workshop fee is non-refundable. Fee is transferable to a class taught at a later date.
If workshop is cancelled for any reason you will receive a full refund.
Fee paid is per person.
Glenyse Thompson is a Florida-based artist. Among many publications, her work was featured in the April 2023 issue of Architectural Digest, “In Focus: Legacy of Black Women Makers”. Home décor firm Brewster Wallcoverings collaborated on a capsule collection, “A-Street Prints x Glenyse Thompson Wall Mural Collection”. Her work has also appeared in Southern Living, Town and Country Magazine, Elle Decoration UK, Metropolis Magazine, California Design and Home, Houzz, Hunker, Design Milk and Aspire Home and Design. Commissions include cover art for Designers Today magazine and Great Guns London. Her artwork is in the collection of Boston Children’s Hospital and private collections. Thompson's collages, All That Glitters Isn't Gold 1 and 2, were part of "Many Americas: Art Meets History", curated by Ric Kasini Kadour, at the Southern Vermont Arts Center in 2022. Learn more at the Kolaj Magazine Artist Directory.