Name: Theorem Painting Workshop
Start: 2025-09-06T10:00:00-04:00
End: 2025-09-06T13:30:00-04:00
Location: 940 Centre Ave, Reading, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 19601

Join us on Saturday, September 6th from 10AM to 1:30PM for the Berks History Center's third Theorem Painting Workshop, featuring the esteemed Guest Theorem Artist and Instructor, Peggy Allen. This workshop provides a unique opportunity to explore Theorem Painting, an Early American art form that is both distinctive and rarely taught. Theorem Painting, which emerged in early 19th century America, is known for its delicate and precise style. This traditional art form involves using layered stencils to create intricate designs, applied to fabric with brushes and oil paints, resulting in beautiful, soft-edged images. Historically, motifs such as fruit, flowers, and landscapes were common, capturing the simplicity and elegance of the era.
In this engaging session, participants will delve into the basic techniques of theorem painting through the creation of a new design, “Botanical Pears.” Under Peggy Allen's expert guidance, you'll learn to use layers of stencils to achieve the traditional early American motif. By the end of the workshop, you'll have crafted a unique piece of art that showcases the timeless beauty of theorem painting.
Whether you're a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, this workshop is ideal for anyone interested in exploring historical art forms. You’ll gain hands-on experience with theorem painting techniques and leave with a personal artwork that reflects the rich artistic heritage of early America. Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot today for this captivating journey into the world of theorem painting! We look forward to seeing you and sharing this unique artistic tradition.
The cost is $50 for BHC Members and $60 for Non-Members and includes all necessary supplies.
Off-street parking is available in the BHC's parking lot, located at 160 Spring Street, Reading, PA 19601.
For more information and to register, please visit: https://berkshistory.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F20553
~About the Instructor:
Peggy Allen, a proud native of Berks County and the owner of Heritage Art & Craft Studio, a Mobile Art Studio, has dedicated over 30 years to teaching art and crafts. Before launching her own business in the 1990s, she worked in retail and marketing. While she offers a wide range of classes, her true passion lies in Traditional American crafts. Peggy teaches Historic Theorem Painting at the Berks History Center and, alongside her husband Greg, conducts various art, craft, and nature educational programs across multiple venues in the county, including Berks Heritage Center, Berks Encore, Spring Township Parks and Recreation Adult Education, Berks Nature Center, and initiatives for the County of Berks. Additionally, she provides craft instruction to adults with intellectual disabilities through ProBerco of Reading and Unending Promise. Beyond these contributions, Peggy and Greg also teach at several regional historic sites, such as Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum, Historic Schaefferstown, Historic Beidler House, and Ephrata Cloister. Peggy is an active member of the Berks History Center, Landis Valley Farm and Museum, and HSEAD (Historical Society of Early American Decoration).