Ceramics Take Over Wheeling: “Timeless Collaborations” by Jillian Heusohn Opens Feb. 27
WHEELING, W.Va. – February 19, 2026– In collaboration with Oglebay Institute, Wheeling Heritage will host the opening of the Ceramics Take Over Wheeling: “Timeless Collaborations,” a solo ceramics exhibition by Jillian Heusohn, from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, at the Wheeling Artisan Center, 1400 Main St. The exhibition will remain on display through April 7, 2026.
Heusohn, a ceramicist from Tallahassee, Florida, will have her solo exhibition, “Timeless Collaborations,” which explores a dialogue between past and present, inspired by childhood drawings her family preserved for decades. Through drawing, tracing, screen-printing, and transferring childhood imagery onto ceramic forms, Heusohn reconnects with her earlier self. Adult experiences shape each surface, while playful elements from her youth infuse the vessels with whimsy and softness.
“To embrace whimsy is to reduce shame,” Heusohn said. “To seek out humor and absurdity is to resist the heavy burdens society can place on us. Playfulness becomes a form of freedom, and silliness a source of joy. Timeless Collaborations invites viewers to reconnect with that inner playful space and to honor the lighthearted moments that we hold on to.”
Heusohn earned a Master of Fine Arts in studio art from Florida State University in 2025. She has exhibited regionally and nationally and received several honors, including Best in Show at the 2025 Intercollegiate Ceramics Exhibition at Bethany College, the Andy McLachlin Memorial Award from Florida State University, and a Summer Session Creative Residency at the Hambidge Center for Creative Arts and Sciences. She currently serves as a ceramics instructor and studio technician at Tallahassee Clay Arts.
“We’re honored to once again take part in Ceramics Take Over Wheeling and to be included in this inspiring weekend celebrating the ceramic arts,” said Riley Carpenter, director of Programming. “It’s a meaningful opportunity for visitors to experience Wheeling and our vibrant arts community, while giving local residents a chance to explore and engage with exceptional ceramic work close to home. We’re grateful to Oglebay Institute for leading this community-wide event and look forward to another great turnout.”
The opening reception is free and open to the public.
For more information, visit https://www.ceramicstakeoverwheeling.com/events-calendar.
About Wheeling Heritage:
Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.