How It Went: Workshop Recap
The Art of Illumination workshop was a great success! We filled all ten spots, had a waitlist, and every participant showed up on time, ready to learn. The session ran smoothly from start to finish, and feedback was overwhelmingly positive: 100% of attendees completed the post-workshop survey and reported that the experience exceeded their expectations.
Participants left feeling more confident and excited about integrating LED technology into their existing art practices. One artist even brought in a piece of their work and illuminated it on-site using materials we provided. Many noted that their favorite part was hearing real-world stories about getting started without needing to know everything upfront, precisely the goal of the class.
Some standout feedback included:
“Exceeded my expectations!”
“Learning the basics of what to look for was extremely helpful.”
“I came into the workshop almost LED-illiterate. Now I feel confident that I can use LED lighting techniques in my work to create delight and wonder.”
– Anne J. Paris, Fathom PDX featured artist.
– Anne J. Paris, Fathom PDX featured artist.
Attendees also shared that this was a great use of grant funds and were thrilled with the range of LED projects we demonstrated. We’re proud to have sparked curiosity and capability in such a talented group of makers.
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION
Have you seen light-based art and thought, “I want to do that… but where do I even start?"
The world of LEDs can be overwhelming—full of technical jargon, intense tutorials, and complex coding. This workshop cuts through the confusion to give you a clear, approachable entry point into illuminated art.
What This Workshop Covers
🔹 LED Basics: Lights, power, and controls—the foundation of any illuminated project.
🔹 Simple, No-Soldering Solutions: How to confidently buy and use off-the-shelf LED strips.
🔹 Understanding LED Jargon: What to look for when shopping for LED components.
🔹 Why Artists Use Light: How LEDs can transform creative expression.
Who This is For
✅ Artists & makers curious about adding light to their work.
✅ Anyone who has seen LED-lit art and wondered, “How do they do that?”
✅ Creatives looking for a practical, no-nonsense guide to getting started.
No prior electronics or coding experience needed!
Why Take This Workshop?
Light can transform art, but the technical side can feel intimidating. This workshop removes the guesswork.
⚡ No endless YouTube tutorials.
⚡ No deep dives into coding.
⚡ Just the essentials to get you started.
By the end, you’ll be confident enough to add LEDs to your projects.
Meet Your Instructors
Therese Gietler and Misty Post of Twisty Maurice ventured into light-based art two years ago, adding to a lifetime of creativity. Just two years ago, they were where you are now—curious and ready to dive into the world of illuminated art.
They took on the challenges of LED tech together, learning through trial and error and a few near-disasters (smoke, but no fire!).
🔸 Therese works with paper, low-poly design, and LED lights, pushing the boundaries of illuminated installations.
🔸 Misty works with found materials, fabric, stained glass, and shadow puppetry, exploring the interplay of light and storytelling.
Together, they’ve explored the tech, taken the deep dive into illuminated art, and are ready to help you take your first steps.
When & Where
📅 Saturday, May 3
⏰ 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 223 SW Naito Parkway (at Oak Street)
🔹 Doors open at 9:00 AM
🔹 Workshop starts promptly at 9:30 AM
🔹 Mixed-format: Lecture + Hands-on work time
Cost & Materials
Workshop Fee: Free, with a $25 materials fee that includes
✔️ A working strand of LED lights
✔️ A downloadable app for control
✔️ A remote control
✔️ A paper lantern
✔️ Diffusion materials
What to Bring: A USB battery pack (we’ll have extras to use during the session, but they’re not included in the kit).
Register Now
Spots are limited to 10 participants—sign up early!
Getting There
🚇 MAX: Red & Blue Lines
🚌 Buses: Multiple Trimet options - plan your ride here
🚗 Parking: Paid street parking is available nearby
This workshop is made possible by a 3-C Grant from the Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC).
