ONLINE: 2021 Annual Member Meeting with Elections
2021-10-21 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Online
Thursday, October 21, 2021 starting at 7pm(Register & Vote before Oct 20 at Noon)

Register to attend the Annual Meeting Online
Vote Online for the 2022 Board of Directors

The meeting will be an online Zoom meeting. Registration will be published in advance. Registered members will be sent login information via email the day before the meeting. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
We have a full agenda planned for you during the ONLINE Annual Member Meeting! This will be your opportunity to hear information about all the shows planned for 2022. Dale Spivey, President, will present a special message about the organization and introduce the newly elected 2022 Board of Directors. Due to the pandemic, voting will be online this year. (Voting details in the next section.)
Members who register by the deadline (noon on Oct 20) and attend the meeting are eligible for the drawing to win a new upcycled tote bag and wine gift bag made from past exhibit banners. The bags will be given away at the end of the meeting and must be picked up by the winner no later than Nov 28.
Register for the Meeting

Voting for the Slate or Individual Candidates
“Members in Good Standing” (current membership) are eligible to vote—so please renew your membership if you haven’t already. You do not need to attend the meeting to vote. All electronic votes must be received by Wednesday, October 20 at noon. Select the “VOTE NOW” button to open the ballot.
VOTE NOW
If you do not wish to vote electronically, we urge you to make a Proxy vote by phone. Please do this by calling the gallery at 703-838-4827 with your vote (“yes” or “no” for the entire slate or individual candidates) on Thursday (10/14) or Friday (10/15) between noon and 6pm.
Slate of Nominees
If you are interested in running for a Board Position or have questions, contact Nominations@DelRayArtisans.org. You are welcome to run for any position on the Board, except for the advisory position. The 2022 Board will begin its one-year term on January 1, 2022. You may nominate yourself or another member by emailing Nominations@DelRayArtisans.org.
Here is the 2022 slate of nominees for Del Ray Artisans’ 2022 Board of Directors:

President – Dale Spivey
Vice President – Kellie Sansone
Secretary – Kathryn Brown
Treasurer – Rita Schooley
Assistant Treasurer – Stephen Lally
Director of…
Archives – Bill Cabrera
Communications – Kathy Stoner
Community – John Bordner
Curating – Kelly Postula
Facilities – Kurt Peterson
Fundraising Events – Maria Hart
Grants & Sponsorship – Karen Schmitz
Membership – Beth Richardson
Outreach – Kelly MacConomy
Programs – Erica Hughes
Technology – Dawn Wyse Hurto
Volunteers – Joshua Oliveira & Debi Steinbacher (co-serving)
Youth Programs – Amy Castine
Advisory (Not Nominated by the Membership)
Emeritus (Selected by the Board of Directors) – Marlin Lord

Interested in running in the future? Check out the position descriptions and email Lesley Hall at Nominations@DelRayArtisans.org.

Fantasy & Adventure Soap-making Fun (SOLD OUT)
2021-11-06 10:00 - 13:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Workshop: Fantasy & Adventure Soap-making FunInstructor: Suzan Ok
Date/Time: Saturday, November 6 from 10am-1pm
Class size: 3-6 participants
(Register by November 4; do not drop-in)
Create your own Fantasy & Adventure soaps (unicorns, dinosaurs, spaceships, and more!) using a moisturizing shea butter base, premium fragrance oils, and fun, skin-safe colorants. While your freshly poured soaps harden, you can decorate your very own gift box with a medium of your choice. Take your gift box and handcrafted scented soaps home with you at the end of this workshop.
Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery. This workshop is held in conjunction with the Groovy Movies art exhibit.
Register Now

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

ONLINE: Partners in Art (FULL)
2021-11-08 14:00 - 16:00 | Online
The ONLINE afternoon program is FULL.
If you would like to join the evening program that is currently sharing feedback via email (resuming in person meeting beginning in September 2021), contact Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com) for information and registration.
Need support reaching your art related goals? Join this collegial group of artists to share your goals and get feedback on artwork. Monthly meetings include discussions on exhibit opportunities, the creative process and the local art scene. Artist can bring 1-3 works – complete or in progress – for feedback. All skill levels and media welcome.
This program is free, but donations ($1-3) are greatly appreciated. Contact Mila Mateu (milaenartes@gmail.com) or Suzanne Tillman (zannet@verizon.net) with questions about the afternoon program.
This event will be an online meeting through the Zoom platform. Current afternoon program participants will receive a reminder of the meeting with the Zoom information in advance of the meeting.
View Upcoming Meetings

Del Ray Urban Sketchers (Free)
2021-11-14 13:00 - 15:00 | St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, 2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Join us at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub on the second* Sunday of the month from 1-3pm!
Urban Sketchbooking emphasizes storytelling that conveys a sense of place or a moment in time through drawings completed from direct observations.
This meetup operates on a drop-in basis during afternoons of the second Sunday of each month, so there is no need to register in advance. Bring your supplies and join us outside at the cafe to produce still life, figure, or architecture subjects in your sketchbook. Participants will spend some time putting their skills into practice and then reconvene for a review of finished works.
“Working Out (St. Elmo’s)” by Cathy Messina
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6′ of personal space. During the pandemic this program is FREE! Donations appreciated.
Meet outside at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub (2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301). Contact the organizer, Joan Bickelhaupt (joanbickelhaupt@gmail.com), with any questions.
*PLEASE NOTE: In February and May 2021, we will meet on the third Sunday of the month to avoid holidays. No meeting in July, August, and December.

View Upcoming Dates

A Feat of Feet – Free Zoom Talk
2021-11-16 19:00 - 20:00 | Online
Online Talk: A Feat of FeetInstructor: Sean MacQuinor
Date/Time: Tuesday, November 16 from 7-8pm
Class size: 1-98 participants
(Register by 6pm on November 16)
As the eyes are the windows to the soul, a part can represent the whole. So too with characters in film. Sean MacQuinor will illustrate how characters in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood are introduced by the part of the body Quentin Tarantino is famously obsessed with in the zoom talk, “A Feat of Feet.” Enjoy this academic talk as a part of Del Ray Artisans’ Groovy Movies exhibit.
The talk will be online through the Zoom platform. Registered participants will be sent the connection information via email two days before the talk, and again one hour before the talk. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Register Now

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

That Shrieking Shrinking: The Role of Psychologists in The Films Suspiria and Midsommar – Free Zoom Talk
2021-11-18 19:00 - 20:00 | Online
Dr. Toni Tileva
Online Talk: That Shrieking Shrinking: The Role of Psychologists in The Films Suspiria and Midsommar
Instructor: Toni Tileva
Date/Time: Thursday, November 18 from 7-8pm
Class size: 1-98 participants
(Register by 6pm on Nov 18)
Cultural anthropologist / feminista Dr. Tileva will discuss the collision between psychotherapy and women in the films Suspiria and Midsommar. Enjoy this academic talk as a part of Del Ray Artisans’ Groovy Movies exhibit.
The talk will be online through the Zoom platform. Registered participants will be sent the connection information via email two days before the talk, and again one hour before the talk. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Register Now

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

“Saturday Night Fever” Card-making Party Benefit (FULL)
2021-11-20 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This event is full. Registration is closed.
Join us Saturday, November 20 from 7-9pm for a free social disco evening making All Occasion art cards to benefit Del Ray Artisans nonprofit. “Cardie Host” Karen Schmitz shows art techniques, and all supplies are provided. The cards made will replenish the gallery card display or may be purchased to cover supplies and event organizer’s time.
All levels of “cardie” enthusiasts are welcome (registration required). No drop-ins allowed. This event has a 12-person capacity limit. There is a registration fee that is refundable upon attendance. Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery.
Card Making Parties are FUN!

Learn & share new art techniques/mini-demos
No experience needed, just bring a positive “art-itude”
Great opportunity for new members and artists to mingle
Disco music with mirror ball included… Dancing and Boogiein’ optional
See the Groovy Movies art exhibit
Del Ray Artisans members may count this time toward annual membership volunteer hours
Find out what’s new & happening at Del Ray Artisans
Donations appreciated

To help with the event and clean up, please contact Karen at kschmitzart@gmail.com. Thank you!

The Many Faces of Hammer – Free Zoom Talk
2021-11-23 19:00 - 20:00 | Online
Online Talk: The Many Faces of HammerInstructor: Tom Birkhead
Date/Time: Tuesday, November 23 from 7-8pm
Class size: 1-98 participants
(Register by 6pm on November 23)
Just a few of the science fiction horror films from Hammer Film Productions
In this talk Tom Birkhead will consider a variety of work from the classic era of the British studio Hammer Film Productions. He aims to shed some light on Hammer films, illuminating their interest and vitality as something that can still stand alongside more acclaimed works. He will discuss traditional Gothic films such as The Curse of Frankenstein and Dracula: Prince of Darkness, and others that share in old fashioned evils.
This talk will also highlight aspects of performance or plot or direction that offer more refined quality and include films of more contemporary concerns. Tom will look at the enduring pseudo-science of Quatermass and the Pit, the feminist critique that underpins The Nanny and the changing society and Cold War paranoia of These Are The Damned. Finally, he will address some films that joined in some fashion with other horror cinema of their era but in their own curious way—namely Hands of the Ripper and Straight on ‘til Morning, comparable to the proto slasher serial killer exploitation of the US, Lust for a Vampire with its European style lewdness, Twins of Evil’s contrast of brutal religious man a la Witchfinder General with honest vampiric devilishness and Captain Kronos with its modish swashbuckling titular hero.
Tom hopes to inspire some fresh appreciation and thought about Hammer, and encourage people to return to their films which he holds quite dear. Enjoy this academic talk as a part of Del Ray Artisans’ Groovy Movies exhibit.
The talk will be online through the Zoom platform. Registered participants will be sent the connection information via email two days before the talk, and again one hour before the talk. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Register Now

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

Euripides and the Rocky Horror Picture Show – Free Zoom Talk
2021-11-30 19:00 - 20:00 | Online
View Recording
Online Talk: Euripides and the Rocky Horror Picture Show
Instructor: Dr. Erica Hughes
Date/Time: Tuesday, November 30 from 7-8pm
Class size: 1-98 participants
(Register by 6pm on November 30.)
Unpack how the Rocky Horror Picture Show can be considered a modern reworking of an Ancient Greek tragedy. Enjoy this academic talk as a part of Del Ray Artisans’ Groovy Movies exhibit.
The talk will be online through the Zoom platform. Registered participants will be sent the connection information via email two days before the talk, and again one hour before the talk. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

Playing with Resin
2021-12-07 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Workshop: Playing with ResinInstructor: Tracy Wilkerson
Date/Time: Tuesday, December 7 from 6-9pmCost: $40 for Del Ray Artisans Members and $50 for non-members, plus a $10 supply fee
Class size: 5-10 participants
(Register in advance; do not drop-in)
Learn the ins and outs of prepping for and mixing resin, and how to use it as an adhesive, a covering, or the main medium. There’s lots of creative time during this 3-hour workshop … no need to rush, which is one of the first lessons in using resin! This workshop does not get into using dyes with resin, or building big molds to create one-of-a-kind resined tables (as seen on YouTube) but this workshop will provide you with a good understanding of how resin works so you can be bold enough to take the next steps in your creative interests.
Although the class is listed for 3 hours, you can leave once you have finished your creations. Some students finish very quickly while others take the whole 3 hours to create – there is plenty of time for each person to enjoy the creative process while not feeling rushed. You’ll leave your finished masterpiece(s) to set at the gallery at the end of the workshop, and pick them up during gallery hours later in the week.
The workshop is designed for adults. Children ages 16-17 may participate with parental permission. Children ages 12-15 may participate only with a co-participating adult guardian (guardian must contact instructor in advance).
Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery.
Register Now

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

Euripides and the Rocky Horror Picture Show (Reprise) – Free Zoom Talk
2021-12-07 19:00 - 19:45 | Online
View Recording
Missed this talk the first time or want to hear it again? Join us for a repeat on December 7th due to popular demand!
Online Talk: Euripides and the Rocky Horror Picture Show
Instructor: Dr. Erica Hughes
Date/Time: Tuesday, December 7 from 7-8pm ET
Class size: 1-98 participants
(Register by 6pm on December 7)
Unpack how the Rocky Horror Picture Show can be considered a modern reworking of an Ancient Greek tragedy. Enjoy this academic talk as a part of Del Ray Artisans’ Groovy Movies exhibit.
The talk will be online through the Zoom platform. Registered participants will be sent the connection information via email two days before the talk, and again one hour before the talk. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

CANCELED: Del Ray Urban Sketchers (Jan 9th)
2022-01-09 13:00 - 15:00 | VA
The January 9th session has been canceled. Please join us for the next session on February 13th.
Join us at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub on the second* Sunday of the month from 1-3pm!
Urban Sketchbooking emphasizes storytelling that conveys a sense of place or a moment in time through drawings completed from direct observations.
Del Ray Urban Sketchers operates on a drop-in basis and typically meets the second Sunday of each month. Bring your supplies and join us outside at the cafe to produce still life, figure, or architecture subjects in your sketchbook. Participants will spend some time putting their skills into practice and then reconvene for a review of finished works.
“Working Out (St. Elmo’s)” by Cathy Messina
Please wear a face mask. This program is FREE! Donations appreciated.
Meet outside at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub (2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301). Contact the organizer, Joan Bickelhaupt (joanbickelhaupt@gmail.com), with any questions.
*PLEASE NOTE: In May 2022, we will meet on the third Sunday of the month. No meeting in July, August, and December.

View Upcoming Dates

ONLINE: Partners in Art (FULL)
2022-01-10 14:00 - 16:00, 2022-02-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Online
The ONLINE afternoon program is FULL. If you would like to join the evening program that is currently sharing feedback via email and/or in person, contact Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com) for information and registration.
Need support reaching your art related goals? Join this collegial group of artists to share your goals and get feedback on artwork. Monthly meetings include discussions on exhibit opportunities, the creative process and the local art scene. Artist can bring 1-3 works – complete or in progress – for feedback. All skill levels and media welcome.
This program is free, but donations ($1-3) are greatly appreciated. Contact Mila Mateu (milaenartes@gmail.com) or Suzanne Tillman (zannet@verizon.net) with questions about the afternoon program.
This event will be an online meeting through the Zoom platform. Current afternoon program participants will receive a reminder of the meeting with the Zoom information in advance of the meeting.
View Upcoming Meetings

SOLD OUT: Playing with Resin
2022-01-17 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop is SOLD OUT. Contact the instructor to be added to the waiting list.
Workshop: Playing with ResinInstructor: Tracy WilkersonDate/Time: Monday, January 17 from 6-9pmCost: $40 for Del Ray Artisans Members and $50 for non-members, plus a $10 supply feeClass size: 5-12 participants(Register by January 14; do not drop-in)
Learn the ins and outs of prepping for and mixing resin, and how to use it as an adhesive, a covering, or the main medium. There’s lots of creative time during this 3-hour workshop … no need to rush, which is one of the first lessons in using resin! This workshop does not get into using dyes with resin, or building big molds to create one-of-a-kind resined tables (as seen on YouTube) but this workshop will provide you with a good understanding of how resin works so you can be bold enough to take the next steps in your creative interests.
Although the class is listed for 3 hours, you can leave once you have finished your creations. Some students finish very quickly while others take the whole 3 hours to create – there is plenty of time for each person to enjoy the creative process while not feeling rushed. You’ll leave your finished masterpiece(s) to set at the gallery at the end of the workshop, and pick them up during gallery hours later in the week.
The workshop is designed for adults. Children ages 16-17 may participate with parental permission. Children ages 12-15 may participate only with a co-participating adult guardian (guardian must contact instructor in advance).
Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery.
Register Now

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

Monster Fantasy Soap-making Fun
2022-01-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Workshop: Monster Fantasy Soap-making FunInstructor: Suzan OkDate/Time: Saturday, January 22 from 10am-1pmCost: $25 Del Ray Artisans member / $35 Non-member; Plus $10 Supply FeeClass size: 3-6 participants(Register by January 19; do not drop-in)
Create your own little monster fantasy soaps (dinosaurs, unicorns, and more!) using a moisturizing shea butter base, premium fragrance oils, and fun, skin-safe colorants. While your freshly poured soaps harden, you can decorate your very own gift box with a medium of your choice. Take your gift box and handcrafted scented soaps home with you at the end of this workshop.
Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery. This workshop is held in conjunction with the Little Monsters art exhibit.
Register Now

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

ONLINE: The Creative Spark Book Club
2022-01-22 10:30 - 12:00 | Online
Facilitator: Sharon Burton, Spark Your CreativeClub size: 3-20 participants
Meeting Date: Saturday, January 22 from 10:30am-12pmBook: “Creative Quest” by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson(RSVP by January 19)
Looking for a way to spark and maintain your artistic practice? Want to connect with a variety of artists and creatives to share ideas? Join the Creative Spark Book Club. We meet online on select Saturday mornings to discuss readings by a variety of authors to help you stay inspired and motivated for your creative practice. The club is free and open to Del Ray Artisans members and non-members who are interested in keeping their creative muse flowing and connecting with other like-minded creative people.
This club will focus on readings by a variety of authors to help you spark and maintain your creative practice. Topics may include working through creative blocks, incorporating creativity into your daily life, creative goal setting, and more.
Book discussions will be facilitated by Sharon Burton. Future book selections will be announced on this website and in the Weekly eNews email in advance.
RSVP Now
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Upcoming Books
January 22, 2022 Book: “Creative Quest” by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson
March 19, 2022: “Find Your Artistic Voice: The Essential Guide to Working Your Creative Magic” by Lisa Congdon

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Past Dates and Books

October 16, 2021 Book: “Show Your Work” by Austin Kleon
March 20, 2021: “What Would Frida Do?: A Guide to Living Boldly” by Arianna Davis
January 9, 2021 Book: “The Dance of The Possible: A mostly honest and completely irreverent guide to creativity” by Scott Berkun
October 17, 2020 Book: “Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad” by Austin Kleon
August 15, 2020 Book: “The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life” by Twyla Tharp
January 25, 2020 Book: “Trust The Process: An Artist’s Guide to Letting Go” by Shaun McNiff
November 16, 2019 Book: “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield
September 28, 2019 Book: “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear” by Elizabeth Gilbert

VIA EMAIL and/or IN-PERSON: Partners in Art Evening
2022-01-25 19:00 - 21:00, 2022-02-22 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Calling fellow artists, beginners to professionals, you are invited to join our art-support group, to share artistic goals, techniques, and the local art scene. Participants may show one or two artworks, any medium, in any stage, for advice and feedback.
To join our small, friendly, and supportive artists’ group, contact Michele Reday Cook at mredaycook@gmail.com for details and registration (choose to participate via email or in-person) BEFORE the day of the meeting. Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery.
This program is free, but donations ($1-3) are greatly appreciated. Contact Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com) with questions.
View Upcoming Meetings

ONLINE: Snowy Trees in Watercolor Workshop
2022-01-28 18:00 - 20:00 | Online
Instructor: Marni Maree, www.marnimaree.comDate: Friday, January 28 from 6-8pmCost: $50 Del Ray Artisans member / $55 Non-membersClass size: 10-25 participantsOnline workshop(Register ASAP)
Learn to use many watercolor techniques such as wet in wet, salt texture, lifting, splattering and more, as you paint a very colorful SNOWY TREE scene. You will love to see how colorful white snow can be!
Snowy Tree by Marni Maree
Demonstration and hands-on activity, suitable for high school age and adults. For the hands-on activity you will need to have these supplies:

Watercolor paints (3 colors)
Watercolor paper (Instructor prefers 140 lb cold press Arches) cut to 8×10″ or 5×7″ or a size of your choice. Smaller is better so you can paint multiple snowy trees scenes in one sitting.
Brushes (round with a nice point, a scrubber for lifting color)
Table salt
A Straw
Water
Paper towel
Pencil
A piece of screen for splattering
Optional but nice to have: Masking Fluid and a rubber cement pick up

This workshop will be online through the Zoom platform. Registered participants will be sent the connection information via email one day before the workshop and approximately one hour before the workshop. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Register Now.

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

Del Ray Urban Sketchers (Free)
2022-02-13 13:00 - 15:00, 2022-03-13 13:00 - 15:00 | St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, 2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Join us at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub on the second* Sunday of the month from 1-3pm!
Urban Sketchbooking emphasizes storytelling that conveys a sense of place or a moment in time through drawings completed from direct observations.
Del Ray Urban Sketchers operates on a drop-in basis and typically meets the second Sunday of each month. Bring your supplies and join us outside at the cafe to produce still life, figure, or architecture subjects in your sketchbook. Participants will spend some time putting their skills into practice and then reconvene for a review of finished works.
“Working Out (St. Elmo’s)” by Cathy Messina
Please wear a face mask. This program is FREE! Donations appreciated.
Meet outside at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub (2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301). Contact the organizer, Joan Bickelhaupt (joanbickelhaupt@gmail.com), with any questions.
*PLEASE NOTE: In May 2022, we will meet on the third Sunday of the month. No meeting in July, August, and December.

View Upcoming Dates

Playing with Resin Workshop
2022-02-13 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Tracy WilkersonDate/Time: Sunday, February 13, 2022 from 6-9pmCost: $40 for Del Ray Artisans Members and $50 for non-members, plus a $10 supply feeClass size: 6-12 participants(Register in advance; No drop-ins)
Learn the ins and outs of prepping for and mixing resin, and how to use it as an adhesive, a covering, or the main medium. There’s lots of creative time during this 3-hour workshop … no need to rush, which is one of the first lessons in using resin!
This workshop does not get into using dyes with resin or building big molds to create one-of-a-kind resined tables (as seen on YouTube), but this workshop will provide you with a good understanding of how resin works so you can be bold enough to take the next steps in your creative interests.
Although the class is listed for 3 hours, you can leave once you have finished your creations. Some students finish very quickly while others take the whole 3 hours to create – there is plenty of time for each person to enjoy the creative process while not feeling rushed. You’ll leave your finished masterpiece(s) to set at the gallery at the end of the workshop, and pick them up during gallery hours later in the week.
The workshop is designed for adults. Children ages 16-17 may participate with parental permission. Children ages 12-15 may participate only with a co-participating adult guardian (guardian must contact instructor in advance).
Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery.
Register Now

ONLINE: Member Meeting
2022-02-20 16:00 - 17:30 | Online
Join fellow Del Ray Artisans members ONLINE for the Member Meeting on Sunday, February 20 starting at 4pm.
Learn about Del Ray Artisans’ upcoming exhibits and programs, as well as catch up with other members. PLUS Judy Gula, owner of Artistic Artifacts, will talk about keeping her business and her art going during the pandemic.
Register for the meeting by noon on February 19 and attend the meeting to be eligible for the drawing to win a new upcycled wine gift bag or tote bag made from past exhibit banners. The bags will be given away at the end of the meeting and must be picked up by the winner no later than March 26.
If you have any questions, please reach out the Membership Director, Beth Richardson, at Membership@DelRayArtisans.org.
The meeting will be online through the Zoom platform. The meeting is open to all members and is free, but you must register by 3pm on February 20 to receive the Zoom meeting connection information in time. Connection info will be sent one day in advance and again one hour in advance. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Register Now

Judy Gula, owner of Artistic Artifacts

Partners in Art (FULL)
2022-03-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The ONLINE afternoon program is FULL; do not drop-in. The March 7th meeting will be the first in-person meeting of 2022.

If you would like to join the evening program that is currently sharing feedback via email and/or in person, contact Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com) for information and registration.
Need support reaching your art related goals? Join this collegial group of artists to share your goals and get feedback on artwork. Monthly meetings include discussions on exhibit opportunities, the creative process and the local art scene. Artist can bring 1-3 works – complete or in progress – for feedback. All skill levels and media welcome.
This program is free, but donations ($1-3) are greatly appreciated. Contact Mila Mateu (milaenartes@gmail.com) or Suzanne Tillman (zannet@verizon.net) with questions about the afternoon program.
This event will be an online meeting through the Zoom platform. Current afternoon program participants will receive a reminder of the meeting with the Zoom information in advance of the meeting.
View Upcoming Meetings

Dragonflies and Damselflies of Virginia (Free Zoom Talk)
2022-03-09 19:00 - 20:00 | Online
Instructor: Chris AllgyerDate/Time: Wednesday, March 9, 2022 from 7-8pm ET(Register by March 9 at 6pm ET)
Come listen to a free online talk by Master Naturalist Chris Allgyer about Dragonflies and Damselflies of Virginia!
Dragonflies and damselflies are beautiful insects that have a significant role in our environment. These colorful and seemingly delicate creatures are amazing aerial assassins with exceptional eyesight and flying ability. The program will showcase their incredible beauty and discuss their importance to a healthy ecosystem.
Learn about these fabulous creatures with Chris Allgyer, a Virginia Master Naturalist and current President of the High Knob Chapter. He grew up in western Ohio and came to Virginia in 1972 where he taught mathematics at Mountain Empire Community College for 46 years, retiring in 2018. Chris has studied insects as a hobby for over 70 years and devotes much of his retirement to hiking and searching for insects in the mountains of far southwest Virginia. He resides in Big Stone Gap with his wife Paxton (also a Virginia Master Naturalist and a Virginia Master Gardener).
This free talk is held in conjunction with the Flora & Fauna art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery (March 4-26, 2022).
The talk will be online through the Zoom platform. Registered participants will be sent the connection information via email two days before the talk and again one hour before the talk. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Register Now

Pick-a-Daisy: Beaded Daisy Chain Workshop
2022-03-14 18:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Amy Castine
Date/Time: Monday, March 14, 2022 from 6-8pm
Cost: $10 DRA member and $15 Non-member; Plus bring your own supplies or purchase $10 bead kit
Class size: 4-8 participants
(Register by March 11)
This is the perfect class for budding young beaders. Kids aged 10 and up are welcome to come out and learn beginning bead weaving as they make a daisy chain bracelet or necklace. Learning the daisy chain stitch is a great way to make a fun project while developing needle handling skills and learning how to manage your thread.
The instructor will provide hands-on demonstrations and individual assistance, as well as instructions with photos and text. Instructions include age and skill appropriate variations.
Needles and thread are available to all participants. Bead kits are available upon request (please allow 1 week’s notice to ensure materials availability) or bring your own supplies.
Purchase a $10 bead kit or bring these supplies:

At least 2 colors of size 11/0 or size 8/0 seed beads

Select the most uniform beads you can find for a smoother result.
Size 8/0 are larger and better for younger kids, folks who have low vision, and those with no needlework experience.
Size 11/0 beads are smaller and will make a more delicate necklace or bracelet.

Beading thread

Select a thinner thread for size 11/0 seed beads.
If you use larger beads, get a thicker thread to help fill the larger hole in the beads.
Recommend 6 or 8lb Fireline or Wildfire in a color to coordinate with the color of your beads. Fireline is available from fishing and outdoors stores. Wildfire is available from craft stores. Choose 6lb for size 11/0 seed beads and 8lb for size 8/0 seed beads.

Lobster claw, toggle, or magnetic clasp
Jump rings

Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery.
Register Now

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

Intro to Pen and Ink Workshop
2022-03-15 18:00 - 20:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Holly BlackDate/Time: Tuesday, March 15, 2022 from 6-8:30pmCost: $15 Del Ray Artisans member / $25 Non-member; Plus a $10 supply feeClass Size: 6-14 participants(Register in advance; Do not drop-in)
Learn traditional and contemporary pen and ink techniques using a variety of pens. Explore techniques such as hatching, cross-hatching, and stippling. Learn about different drawing papers. Create your own nature scene using subject matter provided or bring your own image (can be on a smart phone). You will take home your fantastic drawing (with suggestions for making it show ready), pens, and informational material at the end of the workshop.
Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery.
Register

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

CANCELED: Experts and Sketches! African Swords with Jamaa’l Todd
2022-03-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Expert: Jamaa’l M.DC ToddDate/Time: Wednesday, March 16, 2022 from 6-8pmCost: $5 for Del Ray Artisans members and $15 for non-membersClass Size: 1-14 attendees(Register by March 13)
Come listen to an expert show off his collection of swords and other weapons, then DRAW them! Since 2008, Jamaa’l M.DC Todd has been a student of ancient African history beyond the Sahara and has incorporated this interest in aspects of his life. His collection of swords and other weapons comes from various African cultures and regions.
Discover an unfamiliar side of Africa from his lecture while you sketch the artifacts. Bring your own sketching supplies or attend just to see and learn about the collection. Registration required.
Face masks must be worn by all while visiting the gallery.
Register Now

View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

CANCELED: The Creative Spark Book Club
2022-03-19 10:30 - 12:00 | Online
This online event has been canceled. Thank you to Sharon Burton for leading the book club for 3 years! Sharon is stepping down, and we are seeking a new facilitator to keep the book club going. Please contact Programs@DelRayArtisans.org if you are interested in volunteering or learning more.
Facilitator: Sharon Burton, Spark Your CreativeClub size: 3-20 participants
Meeting Date: Saturday, March 19 from 10:30am-12pmBook: “Find Your Artistic Voice: The Essential Guide to Working Your Creative Magic” by Lisa Congdon(RSVP by March 16)
Looking for a way to spark and maintain your artistic practice? Want to connect with a variety of artists and creatives to share ideas? Join the Creative Spark Book Club. We meet online on select Saturday mornings to discuss readings by a variety of authors to help you stay inspired and motivated for your creative practice. The club is free and open to Del Ray Artisans members and non-members who are interested in keeping their creative muse flowing and connecting with other like-minded creative people.
This club will focus on readings by a variety of authors to help you spark and maintain your creative practice. Topics may include working through creative blocks, incorporating creativity into your daily life, creative goal setting, and more.
Book discussions will be facilitated by Sharon Burton. Future book selections will be announced on this website and in the Weekly eNews email in advance.
RSVP Now
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Upcoming Book
March 19, 2022: “Find Your Artistic Voice: The Essential Guide to Working Your Creative Magic” by Lisa Congdon

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Past Dates and Books

January 22, 2022 Book: “Creative Quest” by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson
October 16, 2021 Book: “Show Your Work” by Austin Kleon
March 20, 2021: “What Would Frida Do?: A Guide to Living Boldly” by Arianna Davis
January 9, 2021 Book: “The Dance of The Possible: A mostly honest and completely irreverent guide to creativity” by Scott Berkun
October 17, 2020 Book: “Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad” by Austin Kleon
August 15, 2020 Book: “The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life” by Twyla Tharp
January 25, 2020 Book: “Trust The Process: An Artist’s Guide to Letting Go” by Shaun McNiff
November 16, 2019 Book: “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield
September 28, 2019 Book: “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear” by Elizabeth Gilbert
