Hands On ESSA 2025: A Celebration of Craft, Community, and Creative Curiosity
A Day Full of Creative Spark
On Saturday, April 5, the Eureka Springs School of the Arts welcomed art lovers, families, and curious minds to campus for Hands On ESSA 2025. The Windgate Iron and Wood Studio was filled with the joyful sounds of creativity in motion as guests explored a full afternoon of interactive art experiences.
This year’s event invited participants to dive into a rich mix of mediums, including printmaking, stained glass, needle felting, watercolor and mini painting, and paper keepsake box making. Guests also got their hands into clay through hand-building and ceramics, while others stepped into the studios to try woodturning, welding, and blacksmithing. Whether painting vivid watercolors or shaping glowing steel at the forge, visitors of all ages were able to connect with new tools, techniques, and— most importantly—each other.
A Small-Art Auction with a Big Impact
Another highlight of the day was the Hands On ESSA small-art auction, offered both online and in person. Featuring original works donated by ESSA instructors and regional artists, the auction was a celebration of generosity, talent, and community spirit. Proceeds from the lively bidding directly support ESSA’s mission to make art education accessible and to maintain a vibrant, welcoming creative space in the Ozarks.
Art That Connects Us
“There’s nothing like seeing our community come together through creativity,” said Kelly McDonough, Executive Director of ESSA. “Hands On ESSA is more than an event—it’s a celebration of what happens when people are invited to explore, connect, and make something meaningful together.”
That sense of connection was felt in every studio, at every workbench, and around every table—from kids proudly displaying their first hand-built clay pieces to adults trying their hand at stained glass for the first time.
ESSA extends heartfelt thanks to the instructors, volunteers, donors, and guests who made Hands On ESSA 2025 such a joyful success. Your participation and support help keep the arts thriving in our region and make events like this one not just possible, but unforgettable.
Thank You to Our Creative Community
ESSA offers a wide range of 1- to 5-day workshops for adults 18+ throughout the year, providing opportunities to explore, refine, and grow your creative practice in a supportive and inspiring environment. To learn more about upcoming workshops, exhibitions, and events, visit www.essa-art.org.
We can’t wait to see you next year for another afternoon of community, creativity, and craft at Hands On ESSA 2026!
Thank you to the Hands on ESSA 2025 Sponsors:
Media Inquiries
If you’re a member of the media and would like to learn more about the Eureka Springs School of the Arts, our events, or the impact of our arts education initiatives, ESSA is happy to share additional information and images.
Please feel free to reach out:
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.
