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Artist Marisela Rumberg is bringing an uplifting mix of color, spirituality and reflection to the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton with “Abstracts and Color,” on display throughout June.

Among the featured pieces is “Zen Meditation,” a work that reflects how art helps Rumberg release stress from her other career as a language interpreter for Fairfax County Public Schools.

“All my art has been helping me a lot,” Rumberg said.

She hopes viewers experience similar benefits. Some of her artwork is displayed in area hospitals, including cancer treatment sections, where it is intended to bring patients a sense of positivity.

“It does work, totally,” she said.

Rumberg described being surrounded by the exhibition’s hopeful energy as a “hug for the soul,” meant to help visitors feel the same happiness she experiences while creating the work.

Her Alebrije Skin collection also draws on the Mexican tradition of Alebrijes—colorful guardian spirits associated with protection. Rumberg said she fills the animal-themed pieces with her own positive energy.

Rumberg’s path to studios at both the Workhouse and Alexandria’s Torpedo Factory began outside the arts. She earned a degree in international economics and spent several years handling imports and exports for General Electric.

In 2019, she launched a language interpretation company specializing in Spanish-to-English and English-to-Spanish services. She now spends about 10 hours a week interpreting in public schools and also works at conferences and other events.

While interpretation remains important, Rumberg said her artistic work provides the greatest personal rewards—and gives her an opportunity to share those benefits with others.

The Workhouse hosts exhibitions by a rotating range of artists throughout the year. U.S. Rep. James Walkinshaw, a Democrat representing Virginia’s 11th District, visited for another event earlier this year and called the center “one of Northern Virginia’s defining cultural institutions.”

In April, Phoebe Twichell Peterson presented “Wavelength,” a collection of ocean-themed paintings designed to connect with viewers through imagination and humor.

Another June exhibition, “Growing Glass: Instructor Honor Roll,” highlights work in glass art.