Washington Square Park has always been more than a green space; it’s a living canvas for artistic expression, a gathering place for creative minds, and a hub for cultural enrichment. This summer, the Washington Square Park Conservancy is proud to continue this legacy through our Teaching Artist Residency program, an initiative that brings a diverse array of artistic practices to the park on Saturdays from 1–3pm, engaging the community and celebrating the arts in a one-of-a-kind open-air setting.

Now in its second year, this program offers a unique opportunity for local artists to share their talents and techniques with the public. Each month a different artist transforms the Northwest corner of Washington Square Park into their studio, inviting park-goers to explore various artistic practices under the shade of the park’s trees. These sessions are designed to be inclusive and accessible, encouraging people of all ages and skill levels to participate and discover their own creative potential.

Throughout the summer, teaching artists from all backgrounds offer participants new ways to see and appreciate the park, deepening their connection to this urban sanctuary. Just imagine spending your Saturday under the boughs of Manhattan’s oldest tree, learning to sculpt or bookbind for the first time. You don’t get more quintessentially Village than that.

In May, Lesley Wamsley introduced us to the fundamentals of color theory and observational drawing in a class that taught participants how to capture the park’s vibrant scenery using complementary colors, providing a fresh perspective on the interplay of light and shadow among the park’s flora and architectural elements.

In June, Rhonda Weppler guided participants through the tactile process of sculpting portraits with clay, offering a unique way to engage with the park’s environment. 

We’ve just finished our July sessions with Eirini Linardaki’s innovative approach to public art. Through watercolor, charcoal, and collage, participants explored the park’s features and drafted their own public art proposals to highlight the park’s architectural and natural elements, while inspiring a sense of connection to the space.

Throughout August, we’re excited to welcome back a fan favorite in artist Tae Kim. Tae’s printmaking sessions invite participants to carve, ink, and press custom designs inspired by their favorite aspects of the park, from the iconic arch to personal moments shared within its grounds. 

In September, we’ll dive into the art of bookmaking with local legend Esther K. Smith of Purgatory Pie Press. Each Saturday afternoon participants will explore a different style of bookmaking, from simple cut and fold pages to stitched binding styles. 

The Washington Square Park Conservancy’s Teaching Artist Residency program not only provides a platform for artists to share their skills, but also cultivates a vibrant community of learners and creators. By offering these diverse artistic experiences, the program encourages us all to see the park from different perspectives and to engage with its beauty in new and meaningful ways.

Join us in the corner every Saturday from 1–3pm and be part of the ongoing legacy of art in Washington Square Park. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a curious beginner, you can embrace the opportunity to learn, create, and connect in one of New York City’s most beloved green spaces, and contribute to the rich tapestry of outdoor art that defines Washington Square Park.