Three Students Selected for Prestigious Painting Workshop at Latrobe Art Center
October 6, 2025
YOUNGWOOD, PA – Three Visual Arts students from Westmoreland County Community College
(Westmoreland) were awarded competitive scholarships to attend a three-day painting
workshop October 2-4 hosted by the Latrobe Art Center.
The workshop, led by internationally recognized artist Blair Atherholt, focused on the wet-on-wet technique to complete two still life oil paintings.
The selected students are Jacob Jensen of Kane, Sarah Palmer of Irwin, and Zea Zingarelli of Irwin. All three recipients are currently pursuing degrees in Visual Arts at Westmoreland and were nominated based on their talent, dedication and artistic growth.
“I never in a million years thought I would be chosen for a painting workshop scholarship,” said Jensen. “A year ago, I thought I was a horrible painter. I feel very privileged to be chosen. I’m excited to learn new techniques and improve my painting skills.”
Palmer echoed that sentiment, crediting Westmoreland’s faculty for her development as an artist.
“Every faculty member I've had the pleasure of working with has had a positive influence on my journey—whether through exploring art careers, learning how to use oil paint or perfecting still life drawings.”
Zingarelli was driven by a person much closer to her for years, her father.
“My dad is a nationally acclaimed artist and I grew up with art being the backbone of our family. He was the driving force in my love of art.”
Kathleen Dlugos, associate professor of Art at Westmoreland, expressed her excitement and pride in the students.
“We encouraged our students to apply because we believe in their talent. Being mentored by such an accomplished artist is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. When we found out they were selected, we were absolutely honored,” Dlugos said.
The list of influences cited by each student was both unique and similar. The students all recognized Westmoreland faculty and consistently shared stories about working with Michael McDevitt, co-chair of the Art department alongside Dlugos. McDevitt has been with the college for over seven years and has been working with the selected students on their painting skills across multiple classes.
Jensen also offered advice for fellow aspiring artists.
“My advice for anyone in the art field is to be better than yesterday’s you.” He said this mindset has been more helpful than comparing himself to other artists.
The Latrobe Art Center, located on Ligonier Street in downtown Latrobe, hosted the workshop. The center is known for providing opportunities that connect aspiring artists with accomplished professionals in the art world and promoting the arts overall across the county and the region.
For more information about the workshop or upcoming programs, visit Latrobe Art Center.
