Local artists open their studio doors Saturday, Sunday

Bethesda Magazine
By Jacqueline Kalil
7/16/26

The Art Glass Center at Glen Echo Park is a creative hub housed inside one of the campus’s historic buildings and on Saturday and Sunday it will welcome visitors as part of the inaugural National Craft Open Studios Weekend.

For resident artist Janet Wittenberg, it is a chance for more people to discover the cooperative studio and gallery, watch artists at work, learn about glass fusing and casting techniques, and speak with makers about their creative process. The studio will be open from noon to 4 p.m. both days.

“When we have visitors, we show them around, introduce them to our classes, our equipment and our setup, and explain what’s involved in the process,” Wittenberg told Bethesda Today on Wednesday. “People are usually pretty interested because it’s fun to see it all.”

Three other Montgomery County studios are also participating: the Art Glass Center, Cyd Rowley Jewelry in Kensington, Gaithersburg Artist Collective, and Fine Ceramics. Overall, more than 200 studios in 36 states will be taking part in the free event organized by the American Craft Council. The Minneapolis-based nonprofit has spent more than 80 years championing contemporary craft through exhibitions, educational programming and events that connect artists with the public.

“It’s really about connecting artists with people and providing transparency into the way artists work, the processes they’re utilizing and their amazing creative spaces,” Jaimianne Jacobin, the American Craft Council’s director of development, said in a phone interview with Bethesda Today on Tuesday. “I think seeing the process increases the appreciation for the work that is produced.”

Wittenberg said that because of the park’s historic designation, the Art Glass Center can’t rely on prominent signage to attract passersby, making events like National Craft Open Studios Weekend especially valuable.

“We have to be creative and come up with other ways to let people know about us,” Wittenberg said. “This is one way to enlighten those who may not be aware that we’re here.”

The event is part of Handwork: Celebrating American Craft 2026, a national initiative marking the country’s 250th anniversary through the work of American makers. Inspired by events such as Record Store Day and Independent Bookstore Day, organizers hope National Craft Open Studios Weekend will become an annual tradition that celebrates craft while helping artists connect with new audiences.

Original article here.