FREE NRAC Workshops At Rockella Midtown

Free Public Workshops with New Renaissance Arts Center

During Rockella Midtown Open Studios 2026

As part of Rockella Midtown Open Studios 2026, RRASP is proud to present a full day of free public workshops led by our current Resident Partner, New Renaissance Arts Center (NRAC).

Taking place alongside open artist studios, these workshops invite the public into an active studio environment for hands-on making, learning, and conversation. Whether you’re an emerging artist, a seasoned creative, or simply curious, the workshops offer accessible entry points into artistic practice and critical dialogue.

All workshops are free and open to the public and will take place on Sunday, January 25, from 1–8.30pm, at Rockella Midtown.

Workshop Schedule

Sunday, January 25, 2026
📍 Rockella Midtown — 520 8th Ave, 24th Floor, Manhattan

✏️ Drawing & Painting Workshop, 1-3pm

This open-format workshop invites participants to explore foundational and experimental approaches to drawing and painting. Led by NRAC instructors, the session emphasizes observation, mark-making, composition, and material exploration.

Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace, whether refining technical skills or experimenting freely. No prior experience is required, and all levels are welcome.

Best for: Beginners, emerging artists, and anyone looking to loosen up their practice or try something new.

🖋 Basic Engraving Workshop, 4-6pm

This introductory engraving workshop offers a hands-on look at basic engraving techniques and processes. Participants will learn how images are translated through line, pressure, and repetition, gaining insight into print-based practices and mark-making traditions.

The workshop focuses on experimentation and process rather than finished results, making it an accessible entry point for those curious about engraving and printmaking.

Best for: Artists interested in process-based work, printmaking, and alternative drawing techniques.

📚 Art History & Discussion Session, 6:30–8:00 pm

This conversational workshop blends art history with open discussion, encouraging participants to think critically about artistic movements, contemporary practices, and the social contexts in which art is made.

Rather than a lecture format, the session emphasizes dialogue, shared perspectives, and collective learning—creating space for questions, reflections, and exchange.

Best for: Artists, students, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of art and its cultural impact.

About New Renaissance Arts Center (NRAC)

New Renaissance Arts Center is dedicated to accessible, artist-led education that supports experimentation, critical thinking, and community engagement. As RRASP’s current Resident Partner, NRAC brings public-facing programming into shared studio spaces, activating them through learning and collaboration.

Visit Open Studios

The workshops take place during Rockella Midtown Open Studios, where visitors can also explore open artist studios, meet the artists who work in the building, and tour available creative workspaces.

Free and open to the public.
No registration required.

👉 View the full Open Studios schedule and participating artists.