ART-OBER

ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL AT COMPASS ART CENTER

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2024 2-6pm

Compass Art Center will hold its first ever ART-ober art festival on Saturday, October 26 from 2-6pm. The art center will come alive with Arts & Crafts Activities for kids and adults, a Stick-er-Treat scavenger hunt through the art studios, live painting demonstrations, and various other fun games and prizes for guests. This event is free and open to the public.

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM

OPEN HOUSE

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2024 6-8pm

Registration for our 2024 Master Artist Programs is NOW OPEN. Join the faculty and alumni of The Compass Atelier to learn about the Master Artist Program.
This is the program that is revolutionizing how painting is taught. Accrue all the knowledge of a BFA and MFA in just 3 short years of part-time study and at a fraction of the cost of a university education. Come meet the instructors, talk to current and former students, and learn all about the program. Find out, like so many others, if this will indeed be the best decision of your artistic life.

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM

OPEN HOUSE

SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 2024 6-8pm

Registration for our 2024 Master Artist Programs is NOW OPEN. Join the faculty and alumni of The Compass Atelier to learn about the Master Artist Program.
This is the program that is revolutionizing how painting is taught. Accrue all the knowledge of a BFA and MFA in just 3 short years of part-time study and at a fraction of the cost of a university education. Come meet the instructors, talk to current and former students, and learn all about the program. Find out, like so many others, if this will indeed be the best decision of your artistic life.

The Compass Atelier’s Master Artist Program Thesis Show, part 1

Couldn’t make it to the show? Do you live out of the area? Or do you just Want to see it again?

Enjoy this virtual tour as you ‘walk’ through the Strathmore Mansion.

This show, which ran January 14-February 11, 2023 included over 130 paintings from 13 exhibiting artists including Suzi Balamaci, Jennifer Lynn Beaudet, Anne Brooner, Sheila Hadley, Kara Lin, Christine Merry, Rob Pearlman, Deborah Pollack, Sameer Sharma, Michael Schoppman, Sophie Spencer, Andrea van den Heever.

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM

Thesis Exhibitions

Group 1

January 14-February 11, 2023

Artists Reception: Thurs, Jan 19 7-10pm

Suzi Balamaci, Jennifer Lynn Beaudet, Anne Brooner, Sheila Hadley, Kara Lin, Christine Merry, Rob Pearlman, Deborah Pollack, Sameer Sharma, Michael Schoppman, Sophie Spencer, Dianne Stewart, Andrea van den Heever

Group 2

February 14-March 11, 2023

Artists Reception: Fri, Feb 17 7-10pm

Maralyn Alpert, Nancy Blacker, Susan Fitch Brown, Carol Buswell, Shannon Cockett, Nan Dawkins, Lisa Denison, Mary Kirby, Margo Lehman, Audrey Moog, Lori Myers, Barbara Novak, EP Scott, Cynthia Walden, Bo Woo

ABOUT THE SHOW:

Come celebrate talent and accomplishment with the graduates of the Master Artist Program. The students of this unique and amazing art program have produced an incredible portfolio of works. Their accomplishment is overwhelming.

This year we are thrilled to display our work at the esteemed Strathmore Mansion in Rockville, MD. We are also pleased to be running TWO exhibitions this year to better showcase each artist’s work. The first show runs from January 11-February 14 with an Artists Reception on Thursday, January 19th from 7-10pm. The second show runs from February 11-March 14 with an Artists Reception on Friday, February 17th from 7-10pm.

Strathmore Mansion • 10701 Rockville Pike • Rockville, MD 20852

The Mansion will be open to the public Tuesdays through Fridays 12-4pm, Saturdays 10am-3pm, closed Sundays and Mondays. Limited parking is available at the Mansion; additional parking available at the Grosvenor/Strathmore Metro garage.

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM

OPEN HOUSE

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2022 10AM-12pm

Registration for our 2023 Master Artist Programs is NOW OPEN. Join Founder and Director of The Compass Atelier, Glen Kessler, live at the studio to learn about the in-person AND new online Master Artist Program.

This is the program that is revolutionizing how painting is taught. Accrue all the knowledge of a BFA and MFA in just 3 short years of part-time study and at a fraction of the cost of a university education. Come meet the instructors, talk to current and former students, and learn all about the program. Find out, like so many others, if this will indeed be the best decision of your artistic life.

The Compass Atelier @ Artists & Makers Studios • 11810 Parklawn Dr • Rockville, MD 20852

DECEMBER 4, 2021

BEAUTY OF THE SOUTHWEST EXHIBITION

A POP-UP SHOW OF PLEIN AIR ART FROM NEW MEXICO  

ABOUT THE SHOW:

"Beauty Of The Southwest" is a one-day-only pop-up exhibition of artwork created by Compass Atelier workshop artists this past summer in New Mexico. The show will feature more than 50 original paintings inspired by the sublime beauty of the American Southwest. This event will also coincide with Artists & Makers Studios' Open House where 3 other art exhibits and dozens of artists' studios will be on view for your pleasure.

The show will will be held on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4th from 11am-3pm in conjunction with Artists & Makers Studios' First Saturday events.

Artists & Makers Studios is located at 11810 Parklawn Drive in Rockville, MD. Free parking and entry is at the rear of the building. Complementary food and drink will be served. Most artists will be present.

For more information, visit our Facebook Event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/656254798696227

FEBRUARY 7-27, 2020

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM THESIS EXHIBITION

THE CLASS OF 2020 EXHIBITS THEIR THESIS ARTWORK ALL MONTH 

ABOUT THE SHOW:

The graduates of The Compass Atelier's Master Artist Program, Class of 2020 will have their Thesis Exhibition at Artists & Makers Studios from February 7-27, 2020. This exhibition will feature the work of 21 graduating artists completed during their Thesis Year of the Master Artist Program. The Master Artist Program combines traditional painting methods with contemporary concepts in just 3 years of logical step-by-step artistic study, and has become a viable alternative to more expensive and time-consuming university education with waitlists now stretching into 2023. It is the brainchild of longtime Maryland Institute College of Art instructor Glen Kessler, an internationally recognized artist in his own right.

An opening reception will be held on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7th from 6-9pm in conjunction with Artists & Makers Studios' First Friday events. Also, from 1-3pm on each Saturday and Sunday of the show, exhibiting artists will hold Artist Talks, Artist Demonstrations, and Artist Lectures. A full calendar of speakers is listed below:

Saturday, February 8th - Katherine R Richards, Lilian Camio, John Weber, Mary Morris

Sunday, February 9th - Joanne Lamm, Jacob Elbaz, Ellen Yahuda, Lillian Klein

Saturday, February 15th - Katherine R Richards, Carol Kaye, Francie Dougherty

Sunday, February 16th - Seth Campbell, Josie Vosoba, Barbara Enyeart, Tinu Prakash

Saturday, February 22nd - Dora Patin, Patti Connell, Maureen Murphy

Sunday, February 23rd - Karen Lantner, Paula Zeller

Artists & Makers Studios is located at 11810 Parklawn Drive in Rockville, MD. Parking and entry is at the rear of the building. Complementary food and drink will be served at the Opening Reception on February 7th. Light snacks may be offered on Saturday and Sunday events at the artists’ discretion.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2019  10A-12P

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM OPEN HOUSE

LEARN ALL ABOUT THE PROGRAM THAT'S REDEFINING ART EDUCATION 

ABOUT THE MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM:

Simply put, the Master Artist Program (MAP) is THE ART CLASS YOU HAVE ALWAYS WANTED BUT NEVER FOUND. It is a program of artistic study that builds your artistic knowledge week-by-week in logical steps from basics through professional artistic mastery. It is open to students of all ages and experience (even absolute beginners). The only one of its kind, this program spans 3-years of part-time work (4 hours in-class plus 6-10 hours out of class per week) but TRANSFORMS students' technical skills, concepts, and business savvy. Many of our students come to the program with little or no experience, though veteran artists will also find the program of extreme benefit. Whether you are a hobbyist looking to enjoy painting more or you're looking to start an artistic career, the MAP will provide the quickest path to your goals. 

MAP classes only launch every 3 years. Our next start date is April 2020, and we have limited spaces available. The application process opens this March with rosters to be set by the end of 2019. Interested students can attend the Open House or contact Program Director Glen Kessler at TheCompassAtelier@gmail.com.

ABOUT THE OPEN HOUSE:

From 10am-12pm on Sat, Sept 14th, The Compass Atelier will open its doors to those interested in learning more about the MAP in an Open House. Teacher and founder, Glen Kessler, will be present to answer any questions. Light refreshments will be served. 

Don't miss this opportunity to learn about what could be the most significant development in your artistic practice…ever! 

FRIDAY, MAy 2, 2019  6-8P

COMPASS ATELIER PARTNERS WITH SIGNAL FINANCIAL

MONTHLY EXHIBITIONS FOR MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM ARTISTS

ABOUT THE SHOWS:

The Compass Atelier is proud to partner with Signal Financial Federal Credit Union to showcase ongoing monthly exhibitions of emerging visual artists from the Washington DC area, beginning this May with Josie Vosoba. Artwork will be exhibited at Signal Financial’s gorgeous modern multi-use space located at 1101 New York Ave in Washington DC’s City Center area. The show will run from May 1-31 with an artist’s reception on Thursday, May 2 6-8pm. The reception is free and open to the public.  Wine, food, and music will be available to enjoy. Information on future shows will be updated regularly.

Learn more about Signal Financial’s gorgeous new space in this interview from Great Day Washington:

SATURDAY, APRIL 7, 2019  12-4P

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM OPEN HOUSE

LEARN ALL ABOUT THE PROGRAM THAT'S REDEFINING ART EDUCATION 

ABOUT THE MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM:

Simply put, the Master Artist Program (MAP) is THE ART CLASS YOU HAVE ALWAYS WANTED BUT NEVER FOUND. It is a program of artistic study that builds your artistic knowledge week-by-week in logical steps from basics through professional artistic mastery. It is open to students of all ages and experience (even absolute beginners). The only one of its kind, this program spans 3-years of part-time work (4 hours in-class plus 6-10 hours out of class per week) but TRANSFORMS students' technical skills, concepts, and business savvy. Many of our students come to the program with little or no experience, though veteran artists will also find the program of extreme benefit. Whether you are a hobbyist looking to enjoy painting more or you're looking to start an artistic career, the MAP will provide the quickest path to your goals. 

MAP classes only launch every 3 years. Our next start date is April 2020, and we have limited spaces available. The application process opens this March with rosters to be set by the end of 2019. Interested students can attend the Open House or contact Program Director Glen Kessler at TheCompassAtelier@gmail.com.

ABOUT THE OPEN HOUSE:

From 12-4pm on Sun, April 7th, The Compass Atelier will open its doors to those interested in learning more about the MAP in an Open House. Teacher and founder, Glen Kessler, will be present to answer any questions. Light refreshments will be served. 

Don't miss this opportunity to learn about what could be the most significant development in your artistic practice…ever! 

FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018  6-9P

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM THESIS EXHIBITION

THE 9 GRADUATES OF THE CLASS OF 2018 SHOWCASE THEIR WORK  

ABOUT THE SHOW:

Come celebrate talent and accomplishment with the graduates of the Master Artist Program. The students of this unique and amazing art program have produced an incredible portfolio of works. Their accomplishment is overwhelming. Many students had never painted or drawn before this program. Now just 3 years later, many are poised to become professional artists with sales, shows, and gallery representation already beginning to add up.

The show runs from March 2-17 at Compass Atelier 2, 12276 Wilkins Ave, Rockville MD 20852. Gallery hours are Tuesdays-Saturdays 10am-4pm and by appointment. A Reception for the artists is Friday, March 2nd from 6-9pm. This event is free and open to public. Parking is free. An Artists Talk is scheduled for Sunday, March 4th from 2-4pm.

FACEBOOK EVENT: https://www.facebook.com/events/404841993319227/

Saturday, December 16, 2017  3-7P

Holiday Market at 7 Locks Brewing

Compass atelier teachers doing demos, art products, gift certificates

ABOUT THE MARKET:

Join us at the first Holiday Market at 7 Locks Brewing! Come by to meet select local vendors who will be having their products for sale, right in time for you to do your last minute gift shopping. There will be hand-crafted local items, tea, beer, sweets, food, music, and more!

The list of vendors at this event:
Shafa Blends
Chouquette Chocolates
Joyful Bath Co.
La Bohemia Bakery
The Compass Atelier
The Silk Road Traders
The Rolling Brick
Tea Thoughts
Minsoo Kang
The Whiff Co.
Styled by Sahar

The holiday market will take place from 3-7, and is free!

At 7:30 there will be live music by Justin Trawick and the Common Good:
"Consisting of acoustic guitar, upright bass, mandolin, and fiddle, Justin Trawick and The Common Good are often compared to David Gray, Tallest Man On Earth, G. Love and Special Sauce, and Old Crow Medicine Show. With five albums on iTunes, Pandora, Spotify, and YouTube, Trawick and the band are seasoned professionals when it comes to putting on amazing foot stomping performances."

FRIDAY, November 3, 2017  6-9P

Saturday & Sunday, November 4 & 5  12-4P

12 x 12 EXHIBITION & Auction

30 local artists present artworks produced on a 12" x 12" panel

ABOUT THE SHOW:

30 artists present over 40 works of original art, each one with a 12" x 12" panel at its core. Oil paint, acrylics, silk, and more... Each painting will be sold through a silent auction where the bidding starts well under market value. This is a great opportunity to check out some of the area's great local talent and maybe get a steal on a great new work of art. And if you see something you simply must have, there's a Buy Now Price for each work as well. Come have a great time with us this weekend!

Saturday & Sunday, November 4 & 5, 2017  12-5P

Compass atelier 2 faculty demonstrations

4 of our incredible faculty offer demonstrations all weekend

ABOUT THE event:

In conjunction with Artists & Makers' Open House Weekend, the faculty of the Compass Atelier 2 will be in house showcasing their skills. Come see Glen Kessler, David Daniels, Alexandra Michaels, and Jalene Januze perform live painting and drawing demonstrations. This event is free and open the public.

Thursday, November 2, 2017  6:30-9P

glen kessler lecture @ Rockville Art League

Creative marketing for the emerging artist

ABOUT THE event:

Glen Kessler explores the many things that emerging artists can do to promote their artwork and themselves for maximum impact. This lecture is chock full of great ideas, strategies, and products that can improve your success. This event is free and open to the public. Takes place at Glenview Mansion, 603 Edmonston Dr, Rockville, MD 20851

Wednesday, November 1, 2017  7-9:30P

glen kessler lecture @ Art League of Germantown

simple steps for success

ABOUT THE event:

Artist, teacher, and entrepreneur Glen Kessler speaks candidly and directly about the simple steps you can take to ensure growth in your artistic career. Being "ready to receive success" can make all the difference. Here's what you can do to prepare yourself for opportunity when it comes knocking. Then, being in a "yes mindset" and having a reasonable expectation for incremental growth is the secret to longevity. Come with note-taking materials or even your laptop to this game changing lecture designed for emerging artists. This event is free and open to the public. Takes place at Black Rock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Dr, Germantown, MD 20874.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2017  6-9P

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM THESIS EXHIBITION

THE 17 GRADUATES OF THE CLASS OF 2017 SHOWCASE THEIR WORK  

ABOUT THE SHOW:

Come celebrate talent and accomplishment with the graduates of the Master Artist Program. The students of the first class of this unique and amazing art program have produced an incredible portfolio of works. Their accomplishment is overwhelming. Many students had never painted or drawn before this program. Now just 3 years later, many are poised to become professional artists with sales, shows, and gallery representation already beginning to add up.

The show runs from February 3-25 at Artists & Makers Studios, 11810 Parklawn Dr, Rockville MD 20852. Gallery hours are Tuesdays-Saturdays 10am-4pm and by appointment. A Reception for the artists is Friday, February 3rd from 6-9pm. This event is free and open to public. Parking is free.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2016  12-4P

MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM OPEN HOUSE

LEARN ALL ABOUT THE PROGRAM THAT'S REDEFINING ART EDUCATION 

ABOUT THE MASTER ARTIST PROGRAM:

Simply put, the Master Artist Program (MAP) is the art class you always wanted but never got. It is a program of artistic study open to students of all ages and experience that builds your artistic knowledge week-by-week in logical steps from basics through professional artistic mastery. The only one of its kind, this program spans 3-years of part-time work (4 hours in class; 6-10 hours out of class) but transforms students' technical skills, concepts, and business savvy. Many of our students come to the program with little or no experience, though veteran artists will also find the program of extreme benefit. Whether you are a hobbyist looking to enjoy painting more or you're looking to start an artistic career, the MAP will provide the quickest path to your goals. 

MAP classes only launch every 3 years. Our next start date is April 2017. Interested students should contact TheCompassAtelier@gmail.com soon as we will look to lock in our rosters by the end of 2016.

ABOUT THE OPEN HOUSE:

From 12-4pm on Sat, Nov 19th, The Compass Atelier will open its doors to those interested in learning more about the MAP in an Open House. Teacher and founder, Glen Kessler, will be present to answer any questions. Many current MAP students will also be on hand, displaying some of their recent work, making new work from the figure, still life, and photo, and chatting with potential students about their experience. 

Don't miss this opportunity to learn about what could be the most significant development in your artistic practice in years! 

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2015  6-9P

"Trent Onsted"

winner of 2015 'Moco's got talent' 

The Leaders Institute is proud to present the work of Trent Onsted, a student of Rockville High School and "MoCo's Got Talent" 2014 and 2015 Visual Arts Winner.  Each year, the County Executive's Youth Advisory Committee identifies the best and brightest visual and performing artists the County has to offer.  In efforts to send a strong message to continue funding for the Arts in Montgomery County's Public Schools, student finalist gather at the Fillmore Downtown Silver Spring, for a star studded night of artistic inspiration and fun to express what the Arts means in the lives of middle and high school students.  Trent's work, along with his expressed inspiration first landed him 2nd place in 2014, then on to 1st place in 2015. Clearly a budding leader in the Artist Community. 

About the Leaders Institute:

The Leaders Institute is a non-profit organization based in Downtown Silver Spring, MD.  Our mission is to provide leadership development to train students to be change agents that impact their community with excellence and integrity.  Students are challenged to survey their community, identify the needs and come up with innovative ways to solve those needs.  Among our students'  many accomplishments that have changed local communities are:  MoCo's Got Talent:  student voices for the Arts;  Bright Futures: bringing both the college and business communities together for candid conversations with middle and high school students;  Trunk Or Treat Canned Food Drive:  treating with a cause; "GearedUP": a Fashion Show and Concert Benefit for MCPS students in need of back packs.  To learn more about the Leaders Institute, visit us on the web :www.leadersinstitutemd.org.

FRIDAY, september 11, 2015  6-9P

"A Show of Summer"

An Exhibition of Summer 2015 'Painting Through The Lens' students 

Come see the scores of paintings produced in The Compass Atelier's Summer 2015 'Painting Through The Lens' classes. Work from emerging and established artists will be on view and for sale in this one-night-only exhibition! Come see the amazing work on view, start or add to your own art collection, and support local talent. Food and drink will be served. There is no charge to attend and ample parking is free.

FRIDAY, August 7, 2015  6-9P  

• MEET THE NEW FACULTY OF THE COMPASS ATELIER • 

TEACHERS WILL BE DEMONSTRATING THEIR SKILLS AS ARTISTS AND TEACHERS

FREE FOOD AND DRINK. AMPLE FREE PARKING

COME SEE THE AREA'S QUICKEST GROWING SCHOOL!!

PLUS ALL STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE A FREE $10 GIFT CARD TO PLAZA ARTIST MATERIALS!!

Our new home!!!

March 1, 2015 The Compass Atelier moves into its new home in the Artists & Makers Studio building at 11810 Parklawn Drive, Rockville MD 20852. This move will more than double the size of The Atelier, improve the look and feel of the space, and allow us to be a part of a thriving community of artists. We look forward to welcoming you to the Grand Opening party on Friday, April 17 6-9pm.

December Live Look-In

Friday, December 5  6-9pm

With 4 new sections of The Academy Program starting in January 2015, NOW is the time to visit The Glen Kessler Atelier. Get to know what people are calling 'a revolution in artistic learning.' Beginning or experienced painters can become master artists in just 3 short years. Glen will explain how at this Live Look-In. Current Academy students will be present to paint and answer questions while Glen demonstrates his teaching methods and answers audience questions. Refreshments served; free parking; art shows and artist studios open throughout the building.

Open House

Friday, July 11  6-9pm

Get to know the program, see the studio, and talk with the faculty.  Faculty members will work from the live model while you watch and ask questions. Refreshments provided. More info at:  https://www.facebook.com/events/1413846952236359/

A Revolution In Art

My recent article, featured in ArtsyShark, speaks about a change in art and art learning that is sweeping the country and world.  Read more here:  http://bit.ly/1m9LpPu

The 411 on The Academy Program

The sensation that is The Academy Program has already garnered some press...even a month before it's major launch.  Read more on 'The Artists Speak' blog from Bora Mici:

http://arttistsspeak.blogspot.com/2014/02/the-academy-program-what-if-you-never.html