PES Summer Studio
This summer, Project for Empty Space is transforming its exhibition space at Ironside, located at 110 Edison Place in Newark, into a gathering place for free, artist-led workshops. Led by past and present artists-in-residence, these programs invite participants of all ages to experiment with new materials, develop creative skills, and engage with contemporary artistic practices.
The series includes protest pin-making, collaborative city-building, tote-bag painting, figure drawing, digital fabrication, and more. Each workshop reflects the artist's unique practice and approach, offering opportunities for hands-on learning, creative exploration, and conversation.
Whether you're an artist, a student, a family, or simply curious to try something new, we invite you to join us this summer at PES Ironside.
Access the space through Mulberry Commons Park via Columbia Street.
Featured Workshops
Cycle 10 AIR Aimee Koran
Make Your Voice Visible: Protest Pin Workshop for Families
June 23 & June 25
Link to RSVP:
A family-friendly workshop where participants create wearable protest pins inspired by issues they care about. Through collage, drawing, and design, families explore how art can amplify voices, build community, and encourage civic participation at any age.
Cycle 8 AIR Layqa Nuna Yawar
Drawing Circle
June 25 & August 5
Link to RSVP:
A welcoming three-hour figure drawing session centered on observation, practice, and community. Artists of all skill levels are invited to draw from the nude figure in a supportive environment while connecting with fellow creatives.
Cycle 8 AIR Azikiwe Mohammed
Black Painters Academy
June 6-7
Link to RSVP:
Black Painters Academy is a free educational initiative dedicated to sharing the rich history of Black art while expanding access to painting education for students of all ages and backgrounds.
Cycle 10 AIR Amy Ritter
Building Community, Block by Block
July 11
Link to RSVP:
Children and families collaborate to design, decorate, and construct a miniature city using handcrafted concrete blocks. Through collective decision-making and imaginative play, participants explore public space, civic design, and the power of community building.
Cycle 10 AIR CAZORLA + SALEME
Summer Tote-Bag Painting Workshop
July 14 & July 16
Link to RSVP:
Participants of all ages are invited to create custom-painted tote bags inspired by the joy, warmth, and shared experiences of summer. Using artist-designed stencils and provided materials, this relaxed workshop celebrates creativity, connection, and community.
Cycle 7 AIR Damien Davis
Cutting Futures: Laser Fabrication for Emerging Newark Artists
July 20-25
Link to RSVP:
A six-day intensive introducing young artists to digital fabrication and laser-cutting technology. Participants will learn industry-standard design workflows, create original projects, and gain hands-on experience with tools that are often difficult to access outside professional and academic settings.
All workshops are free and open to the public. Space may be limited for select programs, and advance registration is encouraged.