Artists in Residence – End of Year presentations
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our End of Year Artists’ Presentation. It’s always a pleasure to come together as a community, reflect on the creative journeys unfolding in the studio, and share a moment with the people who make the VWA what it is. The conversations, curiosity and support in the room truly set the tone for a warm finish to the year.
Earlier this month, our members came together for our annual End of Year Presentations. A chance to acknowledge the progress and energy our Artists in Residence bring to the studio. Adam Markowitz (our Vice President and artists’ mentor) introduced Freddy Mata Mendoza, Wanda Gillespie, Emily McRae, Caleb Biffanti and Margot Feast, who each took us through the arc of their creative journey.
They shared the inspirations that drive their practice, the processes that shape their work, the lessons learned along the way, and the aspirations they’re carrying into 2026. It was a generous and insightful look into the diverse talents growing within the studio.
We also want to acknowledge how challenging (and at times even a little terrifying) it can be to present and speak about your work, especially in front of a big crowd. We’re really grateful to our residents for rising to the occasion with such openness and honesty. Their willingness to share not just their finished pieces but the thinking, doubts and discoveries behind them is what makes these gatherings so meaningful. Again, we’d like to congratulate them all.
