Del Ray Artisans

The Big 3-0: 30th Anniversary (9/2-10/1)
2022-09-02 - 2022-10-01 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The Big 3-0: 30th Anniversary Art Exhibit
September 2 – October 1, 2022
Reception: Saturday, September 3 from 3-6pm
View Photo Album
Del Ray Artisans, founded in 1992, celebrates its 30th Anniversary this year with a members art exhibit, anniversary party & reception, and programs that rhyme with THIRTY. The Big 3-0 members showcase features stunning artwork in a variety of media and themes. Member artists share their favorite works, as well as memories of Del Ray Artisans nonprofit in this exhibit.
Join us for The Big 3-0 exhibit reception and 30th Anniversary Party on Saturday, September 3 from 3-6pm. The party will be inside and outside (rain date is September 10). Curators Dawn Wyse Hurto and Dale Spivey will announce artist awards, special volunteers will be recognized, and a good time is planned for all. Thank you to local restaurants Alexandria Cupcake, Del Ray Pizzeria, Los Tios Grill, McD Mateos McDonald’s, and Tsim Yung for sponsoring the event and to Bill Cabrera for the live music. Mark your calendar or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
Also save the date for these programs that rhyme with THIRTY:

WHIRLY TWIRLY: “Show Your Spirit” First Thursday on Sept 1 starting at 6pm
PURTY: Life Drawing Session (Gestures & Short Poses) on Tuesday, Sept 6 from 7-9pm (drop in with your art supplies; no oils or acrylics)
FUR-DY: Pet Portrait in Glass workshop on Saturday, Sept 10 from 9:30am-12pm and pick up on Wednesday, Sept 14 from 7-8pm (register by Sept 6)
EARTHY: Garden volunteers pulling weeds and sharing laughter on Saturday, Sept 17 from 9-11:30am (help keep the gallery grounds looking great!)
WORDY: Creative Book Club discusses “Amazing Grace: The Life of Beauford Delaney” by Davy Leeming on Saturday, Sept 17 from 10am-12pm
JOURNEY: Del Ray Urban Sketchers meets Sunday, Sept 18 from 1-3pm at St Elmo’s Coffee Pub (drop in with your sketchbook & supplies)
QWERTY: Playing with Resin workshop (upcycle old keyboard keys into art while learning the ins and outs of resin!) on Sunday, Sept 18 from 6-9pm (register by Sept 14)
SHOW-ME: Partners in Art Evening on Tuesday, Sept 20 from 7-9pm (Bring 1-2 artworks for feedback; RSVP to the coordinator before the day of the meeting)
HURDY GURDY: Build your own medieval musical instrument on Saturday, Sept 24 from 5:30-8:30pm and Sunday, Sept 25 from 10am-1pm (register by Sept 10)
NERDY: Tessellation workshop on Wednesday, Sept 28 from 12-3pm (learn how to make mathematically inspired art like M.C. Escher)

PLUS, join us for our first outdoor HalloWEIRD Art Market on Saturday, September 24 from 10am-4pm in the park adjoining the gallery, as well as for the annual community festival Art on the Avenue on Saturday, October 1 from 10am-6pm all along Mount Vernon Avenue.
For more information on all these events, visit DelRayArtisans.org/calendar
Year-round Del Ray Artisans carries one-of-a-kind handcrafted greeting cards created by local artists to benefit our nonprofit. During this exhibit, you’ll find EVEN MORE CARDS extending beyond the merchandise area into the gallery space and sorted by a word that rhymes with THIRTY, such as flirty, earthy, wordy, purty, and more. Card making has been an ongoing part of Del Ray Artisans’ history. Even prior to having our own physical gallery, cards were made for sale by individual members for fundraising purposes. This tradition has continued for thirty years!
More recently, in 2020, the Creative Card Swap was started to keep artists connected to each other during the pandemic. The activity was so popular it became an ongoing, recurring Del Ray Artisans program. In conjunction with The Big 3-0 exhibit, we’ll launch an online exhibit of special cards traded in the Creative Card Swap. View this collection to witness the great breadth, creativity, and joy of handcrafted cards.
The Big 3-0 members showcase runs September 2 – October 1, 2022 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (closed on Sunday, October 2, 2022).
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curators Dawn Wyse Hurto (Technology@DelRayArtisans.org) and Dale Spivey (President@DelRayArtisans.org).

Artwork Credit: Detail of “The Big 3-0” by Dawn Wyse Hurto (Mixed media collage of members artwork)

Alcove Gift Shop (8/5 - 10/1/2022)
2022-10-01
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs August 5 – October 1, 2022.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm. The gallery is closed on Sunday, August 28 and Sunday, October 2.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

Return to Eating, Drinking, and Merriment (10/7-10/29)
2022-10-07 - 2022-10-29
Return to Eating, Drinking, and Merriment Art Exhibit
October 7-29, 2022
Reception: Friday, October 7, 7–9pm
Photo Album
The Return to Eating, Drinking, and Merriment art exhibit is a hybrid show—specifically both a nationally-juried ceramic cup and bowl show combined with a regional nonceramic show organized around the theme of eating, drinking, and merriment. Celebrate the ways that food and drink bring together people and bring joy to our lives.
Join us on opening day, Friday, October 7, between 7-9pm for curator remarks and juror awards. Thank you to Artifacts Framing and Let’s Meat on the Avenue for sponsoring the awards! Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
Plus join us online on Saturday, October 8 at 7:30pm for Cocktails with the Curator. Curator Stephen Lally will share his vision for this hybrid exhibit, share details about the award winners (selected by juror Jeremy Wallace), and answer questions in a casual gathering. The online platform allows for participants from across the country to attend. Juried in to the National Ceramic Cup show include artists from Alabama, Illinois, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio, New York, as well as local DMV artists. Register at delrayartisans.eventbrite.com to receive the online meeting link.
The juror for the National Ceramic Cup Show and awards is Jeremy Wallace (@wallaceceramics), a wood and soda fire potter. His work uses form, texture, and atmospheric firing to capture the beauty of raw clay in the finished vessel. His work has been exhibited nationally, he has taught classes and workshops at multiple clay studios, and he was chosen as a Ceramics Monthly Emerging Artist in 2016. He maintains his studio practice at Baltimore Clayworks.
The exhibit runs October 7-29, 2022 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (closed the last Sunday of the month).
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible.
For more information, contact the curator Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com).

Artwork credit: (above) Vessel by juror Jeremy Wallace;
(page top) “Eat, Drink, and Be Merry” (photograph) by Sam Lally featuring pottery by Stephen Lally

$100 & Under (11/4-11/27)
2022-11-04 - 2022-11-27
$100 & Under Art Exhibit
November 4-27, 2022
Reception: Friday, November 4, 7–9pm
Del Ray Artisans is bringing back our popular $100 & Under exhibit concept from 2015, 2017, and 2019 showcasing members’ original artwork, all priced at $100 and under. The art will be sold on an art-to-go basis, with buyers taking art home when purchased during the exhibit from November 4–27, 2022.
Join us at the opening reception on Friday, November 4 from 7-9pm to meet the curator and artists and select from the first available pieces. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite. Del Ray Artisans’ walls will be packed with lots of great art at prices all art-lovers can afford.
The $100 & Under exhibit is at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays and Sundays 12-6pm. Closed on Thanksgiving Day.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curator Dale Spivey at President@DelRayArtisans.org.

Artwork credit: “I feel like a hundred bucks” by Dale Spivey

Alcove Gift Shop (10/7 - 11/27/2022)
2022-11-27
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs October 7 – November 27, 2022.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm. The gallery will have different hours in December for Holiday Market.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

Holiday Market 2022 (First 3 Weekends in December)
2022-12-02 - 2022-12-18
Del Ray Artisans’ 27th Annual Fine Art & Fine Craft Holiday Market

First 3 Weekends in December:
Fridays 6-9pm,
Saturdays & Sundays 11am-6pm

Join us for the 27th annual Holiday Market! The Holiday Market is open for the first 3 weekends in December: December 2-4, December 9-11, and December 16-18. Different artists are featured each weekend!
The Market offers unique handmade fine arts and fine crafts from local artists presenting a variety of media, including fiber/textiles, glass, jewelry, mixed media, mosaics, painting, paper crafting, photography, pottery/ceramics, sculpture, watercolor, wood turning, and more! In addition, 2023 wall calendars featuring art by Del Ray Artisans members will be available for purchase.
Thank you to the 2023 Calendar Sponsors: Homes of Alexandria Team of Compass (Ellen, Bobi and Daniela), Community Partner McD Mateos McDonald’s, Cosmopolitan Boat Club, and Zebra Press!
Holiday Market hours are Fridays 6-9pm, and Saturdays & Sundays 11am-6pm. The market will be at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Nicholas A. Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public and accessible. For more information, contact the Holiday Market Coordinators: Steve Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com), Amy Kitchin Hower (alkitchin.dc@gmail.com), and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).
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Weekend 1 (Dec 2-4)
Artists include:

B A Hlioui
Marsha Brown
Amy Castine, Castine Beadwork
Rita Cohen
Ariane D’Souza
Patty Moloney Figliola, Aisling PhotoArt
Megan Levanduski, Megan Elaine Designs
Cynthia D Ray, Art and Graphic Studio
Ken and Sue Reed, Green and Burning Tree
Kellie Sansone Creates
Cynthia Schoeppel, The Bag Boutique
Tamara Wilkerson, WiRealm by Tamara
Patrick Zickler, Tree Unions

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Weekend 2 (Dec 9-11)
Artists include:

Victoria Barnes Photography
Lynn Chadwick Design
Stephanie Darlene
Tom Johnson, Infinite Variations Pottery
AudreyK Designs
diana manchak, designsinclay
Liz Martinez
Patti North
Gretchen Pace, Goose & Willow
Kevin Sherlock
Barbara Szostek, Glow Body and Spa
Christine Vinh, StitchesnQuilts
Joan Wages, Heart’s Delight Art
Nancy Yonehiro, Angst and Attitude LLC

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Weekend 3 (Dec 16-18)
Artists include:

Sandra Alami, There’s Something About Purl
Maxine Cholmondeley, Max’s Mixtures Candles & Soaps
Marcel Artes Deolazo
Charles Farmer Art
Alanna S. Graboyes, asgraboyesart
Amy Kitchin Hower, AKHStudioDesigns
Nancy Kline Art
Stephen Lally Pottery
Diana Papazian, Papazian Design, LLC
Madeline Ramsey, Unique Stained Glass
Alexandra Schmeling Fine Art
Jackie Vavra, Birdy Beads
Joyce Wagner, Reinvented Elegance

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Putting A Face To A Name at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-01-06 - 2023-01-28
Putting A Face To A Name Art Exhibit
January 6–28, 2023
Reception: Friday, January 6 from 7–9pm
Photo Album
Come see the Putting A Face To A Name art exhibit—a clever showcase where local artists reimagine fictional characters from books, movies, plays, poetry, television, and more.
Join us at the opening reception on Friday, January 6 from 7-9pm to meet the curator and artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
Starting January 22, come to the gallery to view two beautiful garden statues of the Chinese Buddhist Deities of Compassion (Guan Yin) and Longevity (Shou Lao) and purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win them. The raffle benefits Del Ray Artisans 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the winner will be drawn during the Fun With One exhibit reception on March 3 between 7-9pm.
The Putting A Face To A Name exhibit runs January 6–28, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays and Sundays 12-6pm. The gallery is closed the last Sunday of the month (January 29, 2023).
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curator Gordon Thomas Frank at gordonfrank666@gmail.com.

Artwork credit: “Puck” by Zade Ramsey

The Unseen at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-02-03 - 2023-02-25
The Unseen Art Exhibit
February 3–25, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, February 3 from 7–9pm
Join us for the opening reception of The Unseen art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans on Friday, February 3 between 7-9pm to meet the curator, Peter Michaels, and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite. This exhibit reveals what we typically cannot see.
Juried by renowned scientist and artist Michal Gavish, who recently returned from a residency in Seoul and a one-person show in New York City. She received her MFA in Painting and previously earned a PhD in Physical Chemistry. The Unseen piggybacks off Dr. Gavish’s work with microscopic structures in her art.
Come explore the hidden, under the surface, microscopic, imagined, or dreamt that make life so much richer. Through the exhibit local artists take us to myriad places—in their minds, their dreams, their dives, their experiments, their hopes, and their fears. Is the work of art what the artist intended or what you perceive…or both? After all, as philosopher Roland Barthes exclaimed in his 1967 seminal essay “The Death of the Author,” there isn’t an ultimate meaning. Come experience The Unseen for yourself!
Plus check out our upcoming programs—including the free, online talks: The Unseen World of Extreme Diving on Wednesday, February 1 from 7-8pm and Women with ADHD on Tuesday, February 21 from 7-8pm held in conjunction with the exhibit.
While visiting the gallery, also note the two beautiful garden statues of the Chinese Buddhist Deities of Compassion (Guan Yin) and Longevity (Shou Lao) and purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win them. The raffle benefits Del Ray Artisans 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the winner will be drawn during the Fun With One exhibit reception on March 3 between 7-9pm.
The Unseen exhibit runs February 3–25, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays and Sundays 12-6pm. The gallery is closed the last Sunday of the month (February 26, 2023).
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curator Peter Michaels at petermichael0314@gmail.com.

Artwork credit: Detail of “The Forbidden Garden” by Betsy Mead

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (1/6 - 2/25/2023)
2023-02-25
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs January 6 – February 25, 2023.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (typically closed the last Sunday of the month). The gallery has different hours in July and December.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

Fun With One at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-03-03 - 2023-04-01
Fun With One Art Exhibit
March 3–April 1, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, March 3, 7–9pm
The Fun With One art exhibit showcases 2D and 3D monochromatic artwork by Del Ray Artisans members—revealing a fascinating variety even using only one color. Join us for the opening reception on Friday, March 3 between 7-9pm to meet the curators and artists. Come to the reception dressed all in one color for fun and a chance to win a free 30th Anniversary T-shirt. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
The reception is also your last chance to purchase raffle tickets to win two beautiful outdoor statues of the Chinese Buddhist Deities of Compassion (Guan Yin) and Longevity (Shou Lao). The raffle benefits Del Ray Artisans 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the winner will be drawn during the reception.
The artists awards are juried by Robin Croft, an artist from Manassas, VA whose works include painting and sculpture. Many of his sculptures are created from found materials in nature, created to be left outdoors, and not glued or nailed together in any way so the natural materials can then be redistributed by the natural elements of wind and sea water. He has taught a variety of courses in drawing, painting, and collage at the Lorton Workhouse Art Center. View Robin’s art on Instagram @shipwreckartist.
In the spirit of the color theme, curator Rusty Lynn is facilitating Del Ray Artisans’ Creative Book Club on Saturday, February 11 from 10am-12pm with a discussion of “The Secret Lives of Color” by Kassia St. Clair. This book is organized around the color groups and full of very interesting research about all the colors imaginable. Book club is a drop-in program. For more details on book club and all upcoming programs, visit delrayartisans.org/programs.
The Fun With One exhibit runs March 3–April 1, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are First Thursday (Apr-Sept) 12-9pm, Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays and Sundays 12-6pm. Typically the gallery is closed the last Sunday of the month, but the gallery will be open on Sunday, March 26 and closed on Sunday, April 2, 2023.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curators Rusty Lynn at rustylynn@earthlink.net and Kelly Postula at creativekmp20@gmail.com.

Artwork credit: Detail of “Mt Gamboge” by Rusty Lynn

A Tale of Two Studios at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-04-07 - 2023-04-29
Artwork credit: “The Teleportal from Art Enables to Del Ray Artisans” by Shawn Payne, Art Enables
A Tale of Two Studios Art Exhibit
April 7–29, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, April 7 from 7–9pm
Photo Album
Del Ray Artisans partners with DC Gallery and Studio Art Enables to showcase the inspiring and diverse art of these two local community organizations and to forge creative exchange through artist talks, workshops, and tours. The A Tale of Two Studios art exhibit (curated by Amy Kitchin and co-juried by Art Enables artist Toni Lane and program manager Aimee Wanner) features favorite works by Del Ray Artisans members and Art Enables resident artists. Both groups are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, April 7 between 7-9pm at Del Ray Artisans gallery at 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia. During the opening reception, Delegate Elizabeth Bennett-Parker (VA-45) will present Del Ray Artisans with Commending House Resolution 797 from the Virginia House of Delegates. The resolution highlights the impact Del Ray Artisans has had promoting the arts and arts education in Alexandria while helping local artists grow and thrive for the past three decades. Please join us for this special presentation. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
In conjunction with the A Tale of Two Studios exhibit, these events will be hosted at Art Enables at 2204 Rhode Island Avenue, NE, Washington, DC:

Saturday, April 8, 11am-3pm | Monotype Printing Workshop at Art Enables – DRA member and artist Eileen M. O’Brien will lead the 2nd Saturday Workshop. Event is free and open to the public. Register to reserve your seat.
Saturday, April 22, 2-5pm | Wine & Cheese Reception at Art Enables – Art Enables invites Del Ray Artisans members to this special reception. Resident artists and staff from Art Enables will be present and provide tours of galleries and studios to Del Ray Artisans members. If you are not a member, join now.
Wednesday, April 26, 11am-12pm | Guy Jones, Artist Talk & Workshop at Art Enables – DRA member and artist Guy Jones will lead an artist talk and workshop to Art Enables resident artists.
Saturday, June 10, 11am-3pm | Wax Crayon Art Workshop at Art Enables – DRA member and artist Amy Castine will lead the 2nd Saturday Workshop at Art Enables. Event is free and open to the public.

Also join us in April for these creative programs hosted at Del Ray Artisans gallery (2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia) unless otherwise noted:

Sunday, April 9, 1-3pm | Del Ray Urban Sketchers at St Elmo’s – Bring your art supplies and join us outside St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray (2300 Mount Vernon Avenue) to sketch. This program is drop-in, free, and open to the public.
Tuesday, April 18, 7-9pm | Life Drawing at Del Ray Artisans – Bring your art supplies and join us at the gallery to draw or paint our nude model. The fee for each session is $8 Del Ray Artisans member / $10 non-member.
Saturday, April 22, 10am-12pm | Creative Book Club at Del Ray Artisans – The book for this discussion is “Why A Painting Is Like A Pizza: A Guide to Understanding and Enjoying Modern Art” by Nancy G. Heller. The program is drop-in, free, and open to the public.
Tuesday, April 25, 7-9pm | Partners in Art Evening at Del Ray Artisans – Join our art-support group to share artistic goals, techniques, and the local art scene. Bring one or two artworks, in any medium and at any stage, for advice and feedback. The program is free; RSVP to the coordinator in advance.

Del Ray Artisans’ gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (closed on April 2 and April 30, 2023). For a sneak peek of the exhibit, visit the gallery on First Thursday, April 6 from 12-9pm.
The A Tale of Two Studios exhibit runs April 7–29, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible.
For more information, please contact the curator Amy Kitchin Hower at akitchin@art-enables.org.

About Art Enables
Art Enables helps artists with special needs create and sell their artwork. Only 20% of people with disabilities participate in the workforce. This program counters that by providing both an art studio for people with disabilities to make art and career and vocational training to market and sell their artwork. It helps these artists express themselves creatively, socialize, and earn flexible income to increase their independence and build careers. Art Enables is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, DC and can be found online at art-enables.org
Learn about the value of Art Enables from artist Toni Lane’s and Executive Director Tony Brunswick’s perspectives:

In this documentary about Art Enables by Freethink, hear from more of the artists about their experiences:

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (3/3 - 4/29/2023)
2023-04-29
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs March 3 – April 29, 2023.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (typically closed the last Sunday of the month). The gallery has different hours in July and December.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

Prints in May @ DRA at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-05-05 - 2023-05-27
Prints in May @ DRA Art Exhibit
May 5–27, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, May 5 from 7–9pm
Photo Album
The Prints in May @ DRA: Exploring the Possibilities exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery features art that explores the possibilities of printmaking and imprinting on paper and objects. The exhibit features traditional printmaking techniques such as relief prints, intaglio prints, monoprints, handmade and digital prints on their own and with mixed media, along with fabrics, ceramics and other objects enhanced with block prints or imprints.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, May 5 between 7-9pm to meet curators Ellen Rosenthal and Kitty Russell and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
In addition, join us for our May programs:

Saturday, May 6, 1-3pm – Print Day in May – Come watch printmaking demonstrations and create “make and take” prints. This family-friendly, free event will be held outside the gallery weather permitting. All ages are welcome to drop in, meet some printmakers, enjoy some printmaking activities, and have fun! Print Day in May is an annual, global celebration of printmaking, where people all over the world make a print, and then post it to the Print Day in May website.
Saturday, May 13, 10am-4pm – Spring Art Market in Colasanto Park – Our annual outdoor (rain or shine) market, just outside the gallery, showcases artwork in a wide range of media including ceramics, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, paper, photography, and more. Shop original work from local artists—perfect for gifts or treat yourself!
Sunday, May 14, 1-3pm | Del Ray Urban Sketchers at St Elmo’s – Bring your art supplies and join us outside St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray (2300 Mount Vernon Avenue) to sketch. This program is drop-in, free, and open to the public.
Tuesday, May 16, 7-9pm | Life Drawing at Del Ray Artisans – Bring your art supplies and join us at the gallery to draw or paint our nude model. The fee for each session is $8 Del Ray Artisans member / $10 non-member.
Tuesday, May 23, 7-9pm | Partners in Art Evening at Del Ray Artisans – Join our art-support group to share artistic goals, techniques, and the local art scene. Bring one or two artworks, in any medium and at any stage, for advice and feedback. The program is free; RSVP to the coordinator in advance.

The Prints in May @ DRA: Exploring the Possibilities exhibit runs May 5–27, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm. The gallery is closed the last Sunday of the month (May 28, 2023). For a sneak peek of the exhibit, visit the gallery on First Thursday, May 4 from 12-9pm.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curators Ellen Rosenthal at efrosevalley@gmail.com and Kitty Russell.

Artwork credit – clockwise from upper left: Block printed Bandanas by Meredith D’Amore; “It’s a Beautiful Day” by Meredith D’Amore; “Crinkles” by Eileen O’Brien; “Sometimes I Dream” by Gordon Frank; Covered Ceramic Vessel by Petra Roth; “Book Time” by Ellen Rosenthal

American Patchwork at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-06-02 - 2023-06-25
American Patchwork Art Exhibit
June 2–25, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, June 2 from 7–9pm
The United States is a patchwork of 50 states, 1 federal district, 5 major territories, and various minor islands. This country has beautiful beaches and majestic mountains, bustling cities and quiet towns, pastoral ranches and farms, vast natural beauty and amazing technology, and so much more. The American Patchwork art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery highlights the diversity of cultures, landscapes, and artistic styles that make up the American experience.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, June 2 between 7-9pm to meet curator TJ Feeley and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite. Developed by local artists, the exhibit includes a mix of artforms (including textiles, mosaics, and photographs) and broadly explores and captures the patchwork spirit of the United States and her people. Each artist revealed in their own way what it means to be an American in the 21st century, contributing to the patchwork experience of over 330 million people who make up America today.
Plus register now for our Creative Summer Programs. This series runs June 1–August 31 and includes creative workshops, classes, discussions, and more. Choose what fits you best and schedule your own “stay-cation” this summer with artful and interesting programs! View details at DelRayArtisans.org/creative-summer
The American Patchwork art exhibit runs June 2–25, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible.
Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm. For a sneak peek of the exhibit, visit the gallery on First Thursday, June 1 from 12-9pm. The gallery will be open on Sunday, June 25 (the last day of the exhibit), but hours will differ June 28–August 2, 2023. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curator TJ Feeley at tjfeeley@gmail.com.

Artwork credit: “American Patchwork #1” by TJ Feeley

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (5/5 - 6/25/2023)
2023-06-25
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs May 5 – June 25, 2023.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (typically closed the last Sunday of the month, but the gallery will be open on June 25, 2023). The gallery has different hours in July and December.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

Treasures of the DMV at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-08-04 - 2023-08-26
Treasures of the DMV Art Exhibit
August 4–26, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, August 4 from 7–9pm
Photo Album
Celebrate the wonders of DC, Maryland, and Virginia by visiting the Treasures of the DMV art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery. In this exhibit, local artists highlight both famous and overlooked regional gems and reveal a sense of place and time in our modern world of shifting meanings through paintings, fiber art, sculptures, mixed media works, photography, and more.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, August 4 between 7-9pm to meet curator Ronald Reel and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
The Treasures of the DMV art exhibit runs August 4–26, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays and Sundays 12-6pm. The gallery is closed the last Sunday of the month (August 27, 2023).
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curator Ronald Reel at reellawyer@gmail.com.

Artwork credit: “TREASURES OF THE DMV” by Ronald Reel.
The video is courtesy of artist Nancy McCarthy Patrick and recorded during the opening reception.

Farther Afield at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-09-01 - 2023-09-30
Farther Afield Art Exhibit
September 1–30, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, September 1 from 7–9pm
Art allows the viewer to travel and experience new sights without leaving home. The Farther Afield art exhibit takes this literally by celebrating artwork that takes us outside of our day-to-day lives to locations far and wide. Whether depicting a scene from a day trip or from halfway across the world, these artworks transport the viewer away from Alexandria to new cities, states, countries, and continents.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, September 1 between 7-9pm to meet curator Alexandra Schmeling and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
There’s more to see at Del Ray Artisans in September. Browse Halloween-inspired creations during our HalloWEIRD outdoor art market on Saturday, September 23 from 10am to 4pm. The market is family-friendly and takes place rain-or-shine. You can also check out our September programs:

Creative Canvas Workshop on Saturday, Sept 2 from 9am-12pm – Learn how to creatively choose a canvas to amplify the message you are trying to communicate and create a painting on the object. Register by Aug 28.
Life Drawing Session on Tuesday, Sept 5, 7-9pm – Drop-in with your art supplies to draw or paint our nude model. Please do not bring acrylics or oil paints.
First Thursday: Star Wars Day in a Neighborhood Far, Far Away on Sept 7, 6-8pm (FREE) – Drop in for an outdoor activity in our gardens and check out the exhibit inside the gallery.
Beaded Lanyard Thingies Workshop on Saturday, Sept 9 from 9am-12pm – Get a great introduction to off-loom bead weaving as you learn to make your own lanyard/glasses keeper. Register by Sept 4.
Stretchy Bracelets with Healing Properties Workshop on Saturday, Sept 16 from 6-9pm – Design and make two stretchy bracelets out of a selection of semi-precious stones, crystals, and accent beads. Register by Sept 11.
Partners in Art Evening – Tuesday, September 19, 7-9pm (FREE) – Join our art-support group to share one or two artworks, any medium, in any stage, for advice and feedback. RSVP in advance.
Nature Journaling Club – Saturday, September 30, 10am-12pm (FREE) – Drop-in with your sketchbook and art supplies to sketch in our gardens, then share your drawings with the group. This program is held outdoors and will be canceled in the event of rain.

The Farther Afield exhibit runs September 1–30, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are First Thursday (April-September) 12-9pm, Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (closed on October 1, 2023).
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curator Alexandra Schmeling at hello@alexandraschmeling.com.

Artwork credit: Detail of “Jardin des Plantes, Paris” by Alexandra Schmeling

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (8/4 - 9/30/2023)
2023-09-30
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs August 4 – September 30, 2023.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (typically closed the last Sunday of the month). The gallery has different hours in July and December.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

Curses! Foiled Again! The Art of Swords and Sorcery at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-10-06 - 2023-10-28
Curses! Foiled Again! The Art of Swords and Sorcery Art Exhibit
October 6–28, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, October 6 from 7–9pm
Reception Video | Photo Album
Come see daring swordswomen, haggard bog witches, bevies of mythical beasts, and many more artist interpretations of the fantastic! Taking inspiration from the texture of a dragon’s skin, the swirling cloak of a sorceress, the shriek of a hydra, and a technical manual of swordplay, curator Dr. Erica Hughes presents an otherworldly collection of local art in the Curses! Foiled Again! The Art of Swords and Sorcery exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, October 6, 7-9pm to meet the curator and the artists. Fantasy costumes encouraged! Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
In addition, join us for programs affiliated with the exhibit:

Saturday, September 30, choose 9:45am-10:45am or 11am-12pm – Sword Making for Kids Workshop – Dani and Erica guide small warriors to make foam swords and pool noodle staves. These ‘swords’ can then be used during the CHALLENGE ROYALE! This one-hour workshop is for kids 12 and under. Kids under 7 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Register by September 25.
Saturday, Oct 7, 10am-12pm – CHALLENGE ROYALE: Outdoor Costume Party and Duel – Come in costume with a pool noodle ‘sword’ to the Curses! Foiled Again! The Art of Swords and Sorcery CHALLENGE ROYALE at Del Ray Artisans during Art on the Avenue. Meet at 10am in front of the gallery and present your pool noodle ‘sword’ for inspection and registration. The challenge begins at 11am on the playing fields of the Mount Vernon Rec Center next to the gallery. When challenged by another costumed participant, you may yield or duel! Inflatable ‘swords’ are also allowed. NO other foam, wood, rubber or metal allowed. This is a KID-FRIENDLY event for ages 6+.
Wednesday and Thursday, October 11 and 12, 6pm-9pm – What’s In The Box? – In this two-day, novice-level workshop you will create your own hinged lid box using book board, book cloth, decorative papers, and archival glue. There will be a myriad of combinations of papers and cloths to choose from to create your own distinctive box. Register by October 8.
Saturday, October 14, 9am-12pm – Magical Creatures Workshop – Learn how to design and build a sculpture of an original imaginary creature in the style of Mexican folk art alebrijes. Pedro Linares Lopez created papier-mâché figurines that he imagined in a fever dream and coined them “alebrijes.” Alebrijes consist of features that represent multiple creatures and the four elements of nature. Dragons are great alebrijes because they have all four elements of nature: air represented in their wings, fire in their flames, land in their legs, and water in their ability to swim. Register by October 10.
Sunday, October 15, 10am-1pm – Fencing Demonstration & Mini Lessons – Come see free fencing demonstrations by Mark and Erica of Fairfax Fencers in the tennis courts behind the gallery, and register in advance for a free 30-minute mini lesson for beginners (children ages 6+ and adults). Register by October 10.
Saturdays, October 21 and 28, 9am-12pm – Here There Be Dragons! A 2-day beadwork workshop – Create your own dragon’s eye pendant or brooch by combining bead embroidery and peyote stitch bead weaving in this two-day, intermediate-level beadwork workshop. Sign up early, and the instructor will personalize the supply kit with your favorite colors—allowing you to make the perfect dragon! Register by October 15.
Sunday, October 22, 11am-1pm – Witches’ Brew: The Art of Healing Herbs – Learn about the history of spell jars (also known as witch bottles) and create your own to take home! Register by October 18.
Thursday, October 26, 6pm-9pm – Soapy Sorcery – Join instructor Suzan Shumate in a fantasy-themed soapmaking workshop. Using the melt and pour technique, you can create beautiful dragon eggs, unicorns, mermaids, fairies, ghosts, and other spellbinding soaps. You can choose your themes, colors, and scents for several bars of soap. After you finish pouring your soaps, you will have the option of decorating a wooden chest to store or gift your soaps. Register by October 21.

“Snarler” by Erica Hughes
The Curses! Foiled Again! The Art of Swords and Sorcery exhibit runs October 6–28, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays and Sundays 12-6pm. The gallery is closed on October 1 and October 29, 2023.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact curator Dr. Erica Hughes at zarathustraspeaks@msn.com.

Housemates at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-11-03 - 2023-11-26
Housemates Art Exhibit
November 3–26, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, November 3 from 7–9pm
Photo Album | Reception Video
Have you ever had a housemate who made you laugh, drove you crazy, made you shake your head in wonder or filled your heart with love? Do your housemates have fur, feathers, scales, fins or are they actually people? In the Housemates art exhibit, the members of Del Ray Artisans share their housemates through many creative forms: painting, photography, digital art, sculpture, ceramics, or whatever medium brings to life their pets or human housemates. Lucky us, we get to share and enjoy them.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, November 3, 7-9pm to meet curator Robyn Seaton McGarry and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite. At the gallery or online (residents of Virginia, Maryland, and DC only) get raffle tickets between October 29–November 19, 2023 for a chance to win a crocheted blanket by the curator. The raffle benefits Del Ray Artisans nonprofit, and winner will be drawn on Sunday, November 19 at 3pm.
Del Ray Artisans is also hosting Meet and Greet events with two volunteer rescue groups in November:

King Street Cats (KSC) volunteers will be in the gallery on Saturday, November 4, 12–4pm.
Aussie Rescue of the Mid-Atlantic (ARMA) volunteers will be in the gallery Saturday, November 18, 1–4pm.

Both organizations will provide information about their purpose, rescue parameters and adoption process. Who knows? You may even have the opportunity to meet your future housemate.
In addition, you may drop off donations for cats and dogs in the designated box in the entryway of Del Ray Artisans gallery during the Housemates exhibit. For cats, KSC needs washable cat toys, washcloths, paper towels, large trash bags, and litter (Fresh Step Clay or Feline Pine only, please). For dogs, ARMA needs dog toys, leashes, collars, and harnesses. Thank you for your support!
“Charlie’s Photo Op” by Robyn Seaton McGarry
The Housemates exhibit runs November 3–26, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm. The gallery is closed on Thanksgiving Day (November 23, 2023).
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact the curator Robyn Seaton McGarry at robynmcgarry15@gmail.com.

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (10/6 - 11/26/2023)
2023-11-26
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs October 6 – November 26, 2023.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (typically closed the last Sunday of the month, but the gallery will be open on November 26, 2023). The gallery has different hours in July and December.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

Marlin Lord Mini Exhibit at Del Ray Artisans (10/6 - 11/26/2023)
2023-11-26
October 6–November 26, 2023
Come see a mini exhibit of eight artworks by Marlin Lord for sale to benefit Del Ray Artisans nonprofit arts organization in the office area and entryway inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301 from October 6 through November 26, 2023.
Del Ray Artisans Board Emeritus and Founding Member Marlin G. Lord passed away on October 18, 2022 at 84 years old. A gifted, accomplished architect and photographer, Marlin left his mark upon the city in ways seen and unseen.
“Whrrr When It Stood Still…” by Marlin Lord
As an architect, he’s best known for the straightening of the Monroe Avenue Bridge along Route 1, a project resulting in the corollary expansion of parkland at Simpson Field. Marlin also was integral in the redevelopment design of Potomac Yard. As a former President of the Del Ray Citizens Association, as well as past Treasurer, Community/Business Liaison, and Facilities Director of Del Ray Artisans, where he was a founding member along with his loving and longtime dedicated partner Kathryn A. Brown, Marlin left an indelible mark on our community. Marlin and Kathryn were inducted as Alexandria Living Legends in 2013.
Marlin’s curricula vitae of civic engagement reads on and on: the Alexandria Arts Forum; the Alexandria Park and Recreation Commission, where he served for 20 years, seven as Chairman; the Chinquapin Organic Gardens; King Street Gardens Park Foundation and countless City committees and task forces. With Kathryn by his side, a tandem partner in all things, there was always time to give, to give back, and give all. Marlin was truly a man for all seasons and is an Alexandria legend for all time.
Come see this collection of select pieces by Marlin before November 26,2023. Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (closed on October 29 and Thanksgiving Day: November 23). The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
For more information, contact curator Kurt Peterson (Facilities@DelRayArtisans.org).

Holiday Market 2023 at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-12-01 - 2023-12-23
Del Ray Artisans’ 28th Annual Fine Art & Fine Craft Holiday Market
December 1–23, 2023:
Fridays 6-9pm,
Saturdays & Sundays 11am-6pm
Thank you to our 2024 Calendar Sponsors: Homes of Alexandria Team of Compass (Daniela Spigai and Ellen Patrick), Artifacts Inc, Let’s Meat on the Avenue, McD Mateos Community Partners, and The Zebra Press.
Join us for the 28th annual Holiday Market! The Holiday Market is open for the first three weekends in December (Dec 1-3, Dec 8-10, and Dec 15-17), plus this year we will also be open Dec 22-23 (Friday and Saturday only) for last minute shoppers.
The Market offers unique handmade fine arts and fine crafts from local artists presenting a variety of media, including fiber/textiles, glass, jewelry, mixed media, polymer clay, ornaments, mosaics, painting, prints, paper crafting, photography, pottery/ceramics, sculpture, watercolor, wood, candles, soaps and more. Different artists are featured each weekend! In addition, 2024 wall calendars featuring art by Del Ray Artisans members will be available for purchase.
Holiday Market hours are Fridays 6-9pm, and Saturdays & Sundays 11am-6pm; plus open 3-9pm on Friday, December 22. The market is at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Nicholas A. Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public and accessible. For more information, contact the Holiday Market Coordinators: Steve Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com), Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com), and Amy Kitchin Hower (alkitchin.dc@gmail.com).
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Weekend 1 (Dec 1-3)
Artists include:

Bhavani Arabandi, Samhara Ceramics
Carolyn Barone
Ken Beerbohm Sculptures
Maxine Cholmondeley, Max’s Mixtures Handcrafted Candles & Soaps
Evelyn Rose Cook
Gretchen D’Amore, Gdamore Original Art
Charles Farmer
Patty Moloney Figliola, Aisling PhotoArt
B A Hlioui
Stephen Lally Pottery
Susan Lefler Studios
Megan Levanduski, Megan Elaine Designs
Diana Papazian, Papazian Design LLC
Mary Pike, Recycled Bag Lady
Ken and Sue Reed, Green and Burning Tree
Kathy Stoner

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Weekend 2 (Dec 8-10)
Artists include:

Sandra Alami, There’s Something About Purl
Caron Arntson, Caron & Co. Creations
Victoria Barnes Photography
Lynn Chadwick Design
Tom Johnson, Infinite Variations Pottery
Audrey Kremer, AudreyK Designs
Steve Lapin
Diana Manchak, designsinclay
Liz Martinez
Patti North, All Fired Up!
Miyoung Obenschain, Purple Cardinal Arts LLC
Donna Reinsel, Irons in the Fire
Cynthia Schoeppel
Kevin Sherlock
Jackie Vavra, Birdybeads Handmade Jewelry
Christine Vinh, StitchesnQuilts

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Weekend 3 (Dec 15-17)
Artists include:

John T Allen, Permian Designs
Pinar Artuk-Boegel, RENKLI
Marcel Artes Deolazo
Timothy Duncan
Alanna Graboyes, ASGraboyesArt
Ellen Hamilton, Yellow Dot Shop
Amy Kitchin Hower, AKH Studio Designs
Nancy Kline Art
Laine, Lainemindinventions
Susan Pawlukiewicz
Madeline Ramsey, Unique Stained Glass
Stacy Rausch
Ann Cameron Siegal
Joyce Wagner, Reinvented Elegance
Tamara Wilkerson, WiRealm by Tamara
Tracy Wilkerson, Recycled Works

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Bonus Days (Dec 22-23)
Artists include:

Marcel Artes Deolazo
Alanna Graboyes, ASGraboyesArt
Audrey Kremer, AudreyK Designs
Stephen Lally Pottery
Susan Lefler Studios
Liz Martinez
Patti North, All Fired Up!
Diana Papazian, Papazian Design LLC
Madeline Ramsey, Unique Stained Glass
Stacy Rausch
Cynthia Schoeppel
Ann Cameron Siegal
Kathy Stoner
Christine Vinh, StitchesnQuilts
Joyce Wagner, Reinvented Elegance
Tracy Wilkerson, Recycled Works

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Visions of Resilience: Art for Climate Justice at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2024-01-05 - 2024-01-27
Visions of Resilience: Art for Climate Justice Art Exhibit
January 5–27, 2024
Opening Reception: Friday, January 5 from 7–9pm
“Still Standing” by Camille Kouyoumdjian
Photo Album | Video of Select Artworks
Visit Del Ray Artisans gallery’s Visions of Resilience: Art for Climate Justice exhibit from January 5–27, 2024 to explore the emotionally resonant power of art to inspire and raise awareness about climate change and its impact on marginalized communities. Art holds the power to portray what words so often miss. This exhibit conveys environmental issues through the universal languages of image and feeling with the goal of encouraging action towards a just, climate-friendly future.
This exhibit is being held in partnership with the Changing Planet Justice (CPJ) Foundation, which empowers youth to lead climate action in their communities. CPJ provides a platform for youth of all backgrounds to share climate justice-related art, writing, and photography with their peers internationally. During the exhibit, visitors may make donations to CPJ to help further youth-led climate action.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, January 5, 7-9pm to meet curator Camille Kouyoumdjian and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite, and register for these special programs held in coordination with the exhibit:

Webinar with Changing Planet Justice Foundation Executive Director Arielle Kouyoumdjian on Thursday, December 21 starting at 7pm – Learn about the intersections between climate change, social justice, and food security. This program will also discuss the Changing Planet Justice Youth Leadership certification and the importance of including youth voices in the climate justice dialogue. Youth and adults are invited to attend. (View the Recording)
EcoArt: Collage Landscapes for Climate Awareness Workshop on Saturday, January 13, 10am-12pm – Craft collage landscapes using recycled paper that convey climate awareness. This class offers a platform for your creativity to shine and your voice to be heard as you contribute to the global dialogue on environmental conservation. Learn color theory and composition while working from landscape reference photos that are personally resonant. Open to adults and children ages 12 and up (children must be accompanied by an adult).

The Visions of Resilience: Art for Climate Justice exhibit runs January 5–27, 2024 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (closed on January 28).
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact curator Camille Kouyoumdjian at ckouyoumdjianart@gmail.com or Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.
Photo Album | Video of Select Artworks

Visible Touch: A Look at Texture at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2024-02-02 - 2024-02-24
Visible Touch: A Look at Texture Art Exhibit
February 2–24, 2024
Opening Reception: Friday, February 2 from 7–9pm
Video Tour
Come see the Visible Touch: A Look at Texture exhibit featuring works by local artists that explore texture through physical form and visual illusion. Join us for the opening reception on Friday, February 2 between 7-9pm at Del Ray Artisans gallery to meet the curators and the artists and hear live guitar music by Bob Graboyes. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
Texture is one of the fundamental elements of art. In anticipation of how texture can prompt a desire to touch, visitors are allowed to touch some of the art. (Pieces that allow touching are marked.) Artists have also shared statements on how they created the various textures. Enjoy the visual and the tactile experience of this exhibit!
In the mood to create? Drop-in to the free, fun, “I Likey” Card Making Party on Saturday, February 3 between 4-8pm to make cards to benefit our nonprofit art organization. Donations appreciated for any cards you make that you are taking home. Come solo, with friends or your Valentine. The event is open to all ages and skill levels.
Interested in more hands-on activities? Register in advance for these creative workshops:

New Year, New Flow: A Creative Reset Workshop on Thursday, February 8, 6-8pm
Playing with Resin Workshop on Monday, February 12, 6-9pm
Flowers Everywhere Workshop on Saturday, February 17, 6-7:30pm
Ceramic Turtle Workshop on Saturday, February 24, 5-8pm

“Floral Bust” by Lesley Hall
Del Ray Artisans also offers many drop-in drawing programs (Life Drawing, Del Ray Urban Sketchers, and Nature Journaling Club). You may also RSVP to our Partners in Art artist support group or Creative Book Club. Details on all Del Ray Artisans programs can be found at DelRayArtisans.org/programs.
The Visible Touch: A Look at Texture exhibit runs February 2–24, 2024 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (closed on February 25, 2024).
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact curators Dawn Wyse Hurto at dawnhurto@gmail.com and Lesley Hall at lesley.ruthless@gmail.com or Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (1/5 - 2/24/2024)
2024-02-24
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs January 5 – February 24, 2024.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (typically closed the last Sunday of the month). The gallery has different hours in July and December.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

The Power of Two at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2024-03-01 - 2024-03-30
The Power of Two Art Exhibit
March 1–30, 2024
Opening Reception: Friday, March 1 from 7–9pm
Come see The Power of Two art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery opening on March 1, 2024. This exhibit features any two related items in one piece of art, such as two of a kind, two complementary items, duos, twins, parents and children, and lovers. Through the exhibit you’ll recall some famous twos: “Double your pleasure, double your fun” (Wrigley’s Doublemint Gum); “Two great tastes that taste great together” (Reese’s peanut butter cups); “Double Vision” (Foreigner); and the pairs on Noah’s Ark.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, March 1 between 7-9pm to meet curators Karen and TJ Feeley and the artists. Mark your calendar or set a reminder through Eventbrite. Also join us for these creative programs held in March:

Life Drawing Sessions on Tuesdays, March 5 and March 19, 7-9pm
Creative Flower Photography Workshop on Saturday, March 9, 9:30am–noon (Register by March 6)
Del Ray Urban Sketchers on Sunday, March 10, 1-3pm (meets at St Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray)
Introduction to Rubber Stamp Carving on Monday, March 11, 6-9pm (Register by February 28)
Playing with Resin Workshop on Sunday, March 17, 6-9pm (Register by March 15)
Partners in Art Evening on Wednesday, March 20, 7-9pm (RSVP in advance)
Collage City Spires and Skylines Workshop on Saturday, March 23, 10am-12pm (Register by March 19)
Nature Journaling Club on Saturday, March 30, 10am-12pm

The Power of Two exhibit runs March 1–30, 2024 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (closed on March 31, 2024).
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact curators Karen Feeley at karen@adler.net and TJ Feeley at tjfeeley@gmail.com or Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

Artwork credit: Detail of “The Power of Two” by Karen Feeley and TJ Feeley

Same But Different at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2024-04-05 - 2024-04-27
Same But Different Art Exhibit
April 5–27, 2024
Opening Reception: Friday, April 5 from 7–9pm
“Springtime in Maryland” by Archa Malhotra
Photo Album
In the spirit of Celebrate Diversity Month, this art exhibit highlights the beauty and richness of diversity through artists’ interpretations of the concept Same But Different. This Del Ray Artisans members showcase explores notions of identity, distinctions and similarities in our natural and manmade world. Through a variety of mediums, styles, and perspectives, the Same But Different exhibit invites the viewers to look at the interconnectedness of humanity by examining the uniqueness of things that may appear to be the same.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, April 5 between 7-9pm to meet curators Pinar Artuk-Boegel and Barbara Cooper and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
Also join us for these creative programs held in April:

Mix and Match Upcycle Earrings Workshop on Saturday, April 6, 10am-12pm (Register by April 3)
Meditative Art Mandalas Workshop on Thursday, April 11, 6-9pm (Register by April 3)
Gel Printing Workshop: Same But Different Edition on Saturday, April 13, 10am-12pm (Register by April 9)
Del Ray Urban Sketchers on Sunday, April 14, 1-3pm at St Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray
Life Drawing Sessions on Tuesdays, April 16 and April 23, 7-9pm
Partners in Art Evening on Wednesday, April 17, 7-9pm (RSVP in advance)
Playing with Resin Workshop on Monday, April 22, 6-9pm (Register by April 19)
Nature Journaling Club on Saturday, April 27, 10am-12pm

The Same But Different exhibit runs April 5–27, 2024 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (closed on April 28).
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact curators Pinar Artuk-Boegel at pinarartuk@gmail.com and Barbara Cooper at barbaracooper8888@gmail.com or Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (3/1 - 4/27/2024)
2024-04-27
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs March 1 – April 27, 2024.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (typically closed the last Sunday of the month). The gallery is open three hours longer (from 12-9pm) on First Thursday, April 4. Hours differ in July and December.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

The Art of Tea at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2024-05-03 - 2024-06-02
The Art of Tea Art Exhibit
May 3 – June 2, 2024
Opening Reception: Friday, May 3 from 7–9pm
“Floral Infusion” by Suzan Ok Shumate and Sue Shumate
Photo Album
Step into a world where art intersects with tea. Through The Art of Tea exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery, artists explore the culture of tea, a drink that dates back thousands of years to China’s Shang Dynasty. Channeling their inner Zhou Fang, Matisse, Cassatt, and van Rijsselberghe, artists depict themes and stories surrounding this aromatic beverage. From tea cups and tea pots to the Mad Hatter or Boston Tea Party, this exhibit intrigues and delights, like an herbal infusion on a sunny morning.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, May 3 between 7-9pm to meet curators Suzan Ok Shumate and Sue Shumate and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
Get your tickets now for Morning Tea on Saturday, May 25 from 10am-noon ($35 per Del Ray Artisans member, $45 per non-member). Wear your favorite hats and gloves, or dress casually; this is a time to relax and enjoy a few hours of conversation with friends or family over a delicious cup of tea with petite savories and sweets.
The Art of Tea exhibit runs May 3 – June 2, 2024 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are First Thursday (Apr-Sept) 12-9pm, Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm. On the last day of the exhibit (Sunday, June 2) the gallery is open 12-4pm.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact curators Suzan Ok Shumate at suzan.ok@gmail.com and Sue Shumate at susan.shumate1@gmail.com or Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.
