The Fraktur Tulips Workshop with artist and educator Emily Smucker-Beidler is a three-hour, hands-on introduction to one of the most iconic floral motifs in Pennsylvania German folk art. Tulips appear throughout traditional Fraktur documents—symbolizing beauty, growth, spirituality, and the rich artistic identity of the Pennsylvania German community. In this engaging workshop, participants of all ability levels will learn how early Fraktur artists used shape, pattern, and color to create beautifully stylized tulips, and how those styles can inspire their own contemporary work.

Folk art flowers are always a good idea, and tulips remain one of the most beloved elements of the Fraktur tradition. In this workshop, students begin by selecting from a variety of tulip templates based on historic forms. Emily then guides attendees step-by-step through the process of decorating, coloring, and embellishing their tulip design using traditional Fraktur techniques. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, you will leave with a small finished piece that reflects both historical inspiration and your own individual style.

This three-hour Fraktur Tulips Workshop takes place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, in the Museum Store’s second-floor classroom at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum. Please note that the classroom is accessible by one flight of stairs. All materials and tools are provided. All sales are final, with no refunds, and proceeds from the workshop directly support the museum.

About Fraktur

Fraktur is a vibrant form of folk art created by the Pennsylvania Germans from the eighteenth through the mid-nineteenth centuries. Originally inspired by the illuminated manuscripts of medieval Europe, Fraktur evolved into a distinctive American decorative tradition. Early artists used calligraphic text adorned with colorful birds, hearts, tulips, and other stylized flowers to decorate certificates, bookplates, religious texts, love letters, and family documents.

The bright colors and symbolic imagery of Fraktur make it instantly recognizable and deeply tied to Pennsylvania’s cultural heritage. Today, Fraktur continues to inspire artists, historians, collectors, and anyone who appreciates traditional folk art. Workshops like this one help keep the tradition alive by teaching new generations how to interpret and recreate these historic motifs.

About the Instructor: Emily Smucker-Beidler

Emily Smucker-Beidler has been creating Fraktur since sixth grade, when she first learned the art form from Roma Ruth, a well-known Fraktur artist from Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Her early exposure to Fraktur blossomed into a lifelong passion for both creating and teaching art. Emily holds a degree in Art Education and a Master’s degree in Art Education, and she enjoyed a 33-year career as a dedicated art teacher.

Throughout her teaching career, Emily continued to create custom Fraktur pieces for hundreds of clients, building a respected reputation for her skill, creativity, and deep knowledge of the tradition. Now newly retired from classroom teaching, she brings her enthusiasm, expertise, and artist’s eye to her Fraktur workshops. Emily welcomes participants of all ages and ability levels, offering encouragement, thoughtful guidance, and clear instruction to help each student discover the joy of creating traditional Pennsylvania German folk art.