The Laurel of Asheville‘s Community Events Calendar
If you would like to submit an event to appear in our online Community Events Calendar, please visit our submission page.
The Laurel of Asheville is a lifestyle magazine focused on the arts, culture, and communities of Western North Carolina, and submitted events should fall within this context. If your event occurs over several days, please submit multiple events. Events extending beyond a month will not be accepted. All submissions are subject to editorial approval and edits for clarity and style before being published online. If you are going to include a photograph, please be certain that you have the rights to utilize that image. If there is a question about image rights, we may remove the image. Also, images should be no larger than 2000 pixels wide. Large images will prevent the event from being submitted. Please allow up to 5 days for your even to be posted. If you encounter difficulties submitting an event, please email amy@thelaurelofasheville.com.
ENCORE CLASS! ABSTRACT PAINTING UNLEASHED – BOLD MARKS AND BRAVE LAYERS with Jodi Ohl
If you’re drawn to abstract art with strong visual impact but struggle to create paintings that feel cohesive rather than chaotic, this workshop is designed for you.
During this two-day immersive studio experience, you’ll learn the process Jodi uses to build dynamic abstract paintings filled with movement, contrast, texture, and personality. Through a series of guided exercises, demonstrations, and hands-on experimentation, you’ll develop original shapes, marks, and visual language that feel authentic to your own work. Together, we’ll explore:
– Creating strong compositions without relying on rigid formulas
– Building layers that add depth, history, and interest
– Using bold color, graphic elements, and contrast with intention
– Developing confident mark-making that energizes a painting
– Knowing when to push a piece further—and when to stop
This workshop is about learning how to make stronger decisions, trust your instincts, and discover new possibilities within your own creative process.
One of the greatest advantages of working in person is the opportunity to create alongside other artists. You’ll gain fresh perspectives, learn through shared experiences, and leave with new ideas that often emerge only when artists gather together.
→ Artists can expect to complete one to two mid-sized abstract paintings incorporating texture, collage, and layered acrylic techniques. Each day begins with focused warm-up exercises and demonstrations that provide practical tools you can continue using long after the workshop ends.
This workshop is open to makers of all levels with some experience working in acrylics. If you would like to create bold, contemporary abstract art that tells your story, jump in and join us for Abstract Painting Unleashed!