Hands On ESSA 2026 Event Recap | ESSA
Hands On ESSA 2026: A Day of Creative Energy in Eureka Springs’ Creative Community
On Saturday, April 4, the Eureka Springs School of the Arts welcomed families, visitors, and curious minds into the Windgate Iron and Wood Studio for Hands On ESSA 2026, ESSA’s annual spring fundraiser.
Exploration Through Interactive Art-Making at Hands On ESSA
Throughout the event, participants explored a variety of hands-on activities led by ESSA instructors and artists. Clay was shaped, metal was formed, and new skills began to take root.
For many attendees, this was their first visit to ESSA’s campus. For others, it was their first time trying a new art form. In both cases, the result was the same: a moment of discovery.
There is something powerful about making something with your own hands. It invites focus, builds confidence, and opens the door to creativity in a way that is immediate and lasting.
“This was my first time at ESSA, and I can’t believe a place like this exists practically in our backyard,” said Eureka Springs resident Ashley Keyes. “It’s such a wonderful event. I can’t wait to come back and take workshops.”
Creating Together at Hands On ESSA
Hands On ESSA is designed to be shared.
Families created side by side. Kids and adults worked alongside one another, learning, experimenting, and encouraging each other along the way. The studio became a place not just of activity, but of connection.
Hands On ESSA Art Auction Supporting ESSA’s Mission
A central part of Hands On ESSA each year is the Hands On ESSA Art Auction, which plays a vital role in supporting ESSA’s mission and once again saw strong participation both in person and online. Featuring donated works and creative offerings from ESSA instructors, artists, and supporters, the auction was a tremendous success. The generosity of bidders and donors alike will directly support ESSA’s teaching studios, free public programs, and scholarship opportunities.
“Hands On ESSA is one of the most meaningful ways we connect with our community,” said ESSA Executive Director Kelly McDonough. “It opens the door for people to experience the joy of making, often for the first time, and helps ensure that these opportunities remain accessible to everyone. The support we saw through this event and auction directly fuels our mission.”
“Ramen Thief” by Hugh Dever and Jessica Ames-Russell and “Whorls Without End” by Elby Mann
Supporting ESSA’s Mission
Hands On ESSA is more than an event. It is a reflection of ESSA’s mission in action.
By welcoming the public into a working studio environment and inviting participation at every level, ESSA creates opportunities for connection, creativity, and lifelong learning. Events like this help sustain that mission, while also introducing new audiences to the possibilities of hands-on artmaking.
Thank You to Our Community and Sponsors
ESSA extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, participated, and supported Hands On ESSA 2026.
We are especially grateful to our sponsors for helping make this event possible:
CS Bank, Alpine Liquor, Sally & Leroy Gorrell, Terry Martin, Blick Art Materials, Harts Grocery Store, Carroll County Broadcasting, Dan Overgaard, and Jim & Charlie Swank.
Your support helps keep the arts accessible, vibrant, and growing in our community and beyond.
If you captured moments from the day, we would love to see them. Tag ESSA and use #HandsOnESSA and #MadeatESSA to share your experience.
We look forward to welcoming you back for future events and continuing to create, connect, and grow together.
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.
