“The Art of Layering: Techniques and Textures in Mixed Media”

Artist Talk + Demonstration with Robert Placky

Saturday, November 8
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Robert Placky shares techniques that transform surfaces through layering, texture, and experimentation. From acrylic lifts and ink transfers to rice paper and found materials, participants will discover how mixed media can expand creative expression. The talk emphasizes process, play, and the power of materials to shape meaning and form.

This event is free and open to the public!

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MEET ROBERT PLACKY

Robert is a retired Art Educator & Exhibiting Artist living in Montross, VA.

Education

• B.S. in Art Education, Pennsylvania State University

• Graduate Studies (M.S. credits), Penn State University

• Additional coursework: Virginia Commonwealth University; Manhattan College

Teaching Career

• State College Area Senior High School (1982–2015)

• Taught Drawing, Painting, and Advanced Placement Studio Art; mentored students in portfolio development

• Coordinated AP Studio Art portfolio submissions (1999–2015)

• Organized The Decade Shows and The Decade3 Show, featuring 55 alumni artists and a published catalog

• Park Forest Junior High School (1974–1981)

• International Teacher Exchange, North Geelong Secondary College, Victoria, Australia (1994)

Exhibitions (Selected)

• Best of the Best, Shippensburg University (2014)

• Images 2012 & 2013, Central PA Festival of the Arts, Robeson Gallery, Penn State University

• Art Alliance of Central PA Juried Exhibitions (multiple years)

Presentations (Selected)

• National Art Education Association – AP Studio Art portfolios, thematic teaching, and innovative studio practices (NYC, Baltimore, Washington, DC)

• Pennsylvania Art Education Association – multiple workshops and lectures

Awards & Honors

• Teacher Fellowships: CENTRO (Mexico City, 2013); Maryland Institute College of Art (2005)

• Skidmore Six /Artist /Art Educators: summer residency at Skidmore College (1993)

• Excellence in Instruction Commendation, Pennsylvania School Study Council (2008)

• Superintendent’s Award, State College Area School District (2005)

• Member, Art Alliance of Central Pennsylvania (2007–2022)

• Member, Tappahanock Art Guild (2025)