ESSA’s Ceramics Studio in Focus: Neena Wang & Sabrina Barilone’s 2024 Fall Residency
The Eureka Springs School of the Arts (ESSA) proudly hosted two remarkable ceramic artists, Neena Wang and Sabrina Barilone, during the 2024 Fall Ceramics Residency from September 21 to November 2, 2024. This six-week program culminated in a vibrant Artist Reception on November 2, celebrating their artistic achievements and contributions to the community.
A Time of Artistic Growth and Collaboration
Throughout their residency, Neena and Sabrina immersed themselves in the ESSA campus, gaining full access to the ceramics studio, kiln house, and state-of-the-art tools. This environment provided them with the space and resources to explore new projects and refine their artistic techniques.
Neena and Sabrina's Work in Progress:
Bringing Art to Young Hands: Clear Spring School Visits ESSA
On October 22nd and 23rd, ESSA’s ceramics studio buzzed with youthful energy as local middle school students from Clear Spring School explored the art of ceramics. The workshops, led by Sabrina and Neena, introduced two groups of 8 middle school students to the world of clay artistry.
The students engaged in a hands-on experience creating coil-built vessels from terra cotta. After mastering the technique of forming and smoothing their vessels, they used the score and slip method to add sculptural faces. Discussions on facial proportions and expressions encouraged the students to infuse their creations with personality and character.
Once complete, their vessels were bisque-fired by Sabrina and Neena and returned to the enthusiastic 4th, 5th, and 6th graders. This collaboration brought the joy of crafting to young artists, fostering creativity and hands-on learning, while also deepening ESSA’s connection with the local community.
Neena Wang and Sabrina Barilone's Iron Journey
In addition to their ceramics work, Neena and Sabrina expanded their artistic horizons. Neena participated in a blacksmithing workshop led by journeyman blacksmith Anna Koplik, and Sabrina attended an Introduction to Welding workshop led by instructor and former ESSA employee Darla Gray-Winter. During this hands-on experience, Neena forged two unique coat racks, and Sabrina fabricated blocks that she incorporated into one of her pieces, which were later showcased at the Artist in Residence Sale.
Read more about Anna Koplik's time at ESSA by reading this blog post:
The Eureka Springs School of the Arts (ESSA) was delighted to welcome journeyman blacksmith and artist Anna Koplik to its […]
Artist in Residence Sale and Reception
The residency concluded with a sale and reception on November 2, where Neena and Sabrina displayed their art in ESSA’s 2D studio. The evening was a heartfelt celebration of their work, which centered around themes of heritage, family, and the natural world. Attendees marveled at the intricate details of each piece and had the opportunity to purchase these one-of-a-kind creations.
Sabrina Barilone's Work:
Neena Wang's Work:
The event also featured an Artist Talk, where Neena and Sabrina shared insights into their creative processes and answered questions about their inspirations and techniques.
Neena Wang explains how nature and her heritage inspire her work during her Artist Talk
Sabrina Barilone reflects on the influence of her family in her work during her Artist Talk
Nina and Sabrina speak with ESSA Executive Director Kelly McDonough during the Artist Talk
Reflections on the Residency
Both artists expressed profound gratitude for their time at ESSA:
Neena Wang:
“My time at ESSA was an artist’s dream come true. I was able to make a full body of work and really focus on my art for a full six weeks. The school, staff, facilities, and environment were all more than ideal to foster a community of creativity, support, and dedication to work. In six weeks, I was able to make what I wanted, grow as a craftsperson, all while enjoying the serene and beautiful environment at ESSA.”
Sabrina Barilone:
“My time at ESSA has allowed me the freedom to experiment within my practice. The supportive environment fostered by the staff gave me dedicated time and place and the opportunity to push my boundaries within my work. The failures and successes that came about guide me on my artistic journey. Every day I woke up to the symphony of birds and gratitude in my heart to be here at ESSA.”
A Community of Creativity and Inclusivity
By welcoming artists like Neena and Sabrina, ESSA strengthens its ties to the local and national artistic community, fostering inclusivity and creative exploration. ESSA remains dedicated to its mission of providing art education to all, and we look forward to seeing more artists benefit from this enriching experience in the future.
Thank you, Neena and Sabrina, for your inspiring contributions. We hope to see you again, perhaps as instructors, guiding the next generation of artists.
To learn more about ESSA, its transformative programs, or how you can help foster creativity, visit essa-art.org, sign up for our mailing list, or follow us on social media:
Media Inquiries
For members of the media interested in learning more about the Eureka Springs School of the Arts, our Artists in Residence program, or the impact of our arts education programs, please contact ESSA’s communications team. We’re happy to provide additional information, images, and arrange interviews with ESSA staff or event participants.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to:
Chrissie Heavenridge
Email: marketing@essa-art.org
Phone: (479) 253-5384
Website: essa-art.org
Thank you for helping us share the story of how community support is shaping the future of the arts.
