Del Ray Artisans

CANCELLED: Knitting with Wire (Jewelry Making) Workshop
2020-08-08 12:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop has been cancelled.
Instructor: Nan Lopata
Date: Saturday, August 8 from 11am-3pm
Class size: 3-8 participants
(Register by August 4)
Only a few simple tools are needed to make beautiful jewelry! Great for beginners, this workshop will cover several methods of knitting with wire. You’ll create a simple bracelet and then use creativity to make your jewelry unique. All supplies are included, though students may bring their own small beads if desired.

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

Online Presentation: Healthy Aging & Your Vision
2020-08-11 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
As we age, our bodies change – including our eyes and vision! Needing reading glasses or prescription eyewear is a common occurrence many of us experience. However, more drastic sight loss and other problems are not a “normal” process of aging and we need to catch these problems and get them treated early to prevent permanent vision loss.
Hear from Dr. Alibhai, a low vision specialist, about how our eyes and vision change as we age, eye diseases and problems to be aware of, and what we can do to preserve our best possible sight. The speaker will also educate us about what is covered by Medicare, the public coverage for seniors and persons with disabilities. Take this opportunity, celebrate “20/20”, and take control of your eye health by learning from an expert what you need to know and can do to make sure you have the best sight you can for a lifetime!

View on YouTube
If you have any questions about the presentation, please email Communications@YourEyes.org.

About the Presenter: Suleiman Alibhai, O.D., is a renowned low vision specialist in the Greater Washington area. With 30 years of experience in the field, Dr. Alibhai has aided thousands of patients in maintaining and improving their independence and quality of life. Dr. Alibhai sees patients who often have aging eye diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic eye diseases.
Dr. Alibhai received his training in optometry at the University of Houston College of Optometry. He went on to complete a low vision fellowship at Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute. After being part of a large retina practice in the Metropolitan Washington DC area for 12 years seeing patients exclusively for low vision rehabilitation, he developed a Low Vision Center as part of the INOVA health system in Northern Virginia, where he served as the Director of Low Vision Services for three years. Today, Dr. Alibhai heads an independent low vision company which sees patients with low vision in Alexandria, VA, Bethesda, MD, and the District of Columbia. For the past decade, he has also contracted with the National Eye Institute at NIH to provide low vision consultations to patients participating in different protocols at the Institute.
Dr. Alibhai has a passion for educating the community on aging eye diseases, low vision, and the practice of low vision rehabilitation.

Online Presentation: Back to Virtual School
2020-08-15 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The following presentation is from the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan WashingtonÆ.
Back to School Virtually? Parents Should Take Steps to Support Healthy Vision
Washington, D.C. ó As children, throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia prepare to begin school, virtually, the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington reminds parents to take simple steps to protect their children from the effects of too much screen time, including eye strain.
To combat eye strain, parents should implement the “20/20/20 rule“. Every 20 minutes, look about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This will help reduce eye strain and allow the eyes to rest, which is needed as children focus on their device’s screen during distance learning. The “20/20/20 rule” is recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the National Eye Institute.
In addition to following the “20/20/20 rule” to combat eye strain, the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington recommends parents to encourage:

30-120 minutes of outdoor time per day for children, to slow down the progression of myopia
Reducing screen time for children outside of school hours

Long periods of screen time can cause individuals to blink less frequently, dry the cornea, and cause irritation and discomfort. Also, too much concentration at near causes strain due to sustained accommodation and convergence making the eye muscles tired.
According to Mohamad S. Jaafar, M.D., Chief Emeritus, Division of Ophthalmology, Children’s National Hospital, “While there is no question that the benefits of distance learning are vast, extended use of digital technology can strain the eyes of children. We ask parents to limit recreational screen time when children are not in school and to encourage their children to spend time outdoors. We should motivate our children to explore the world by other means than passively through digital devices. Too much screen time hurts the brain, in the long run.”
“Parents must support and promote healthy vision habits in kids as schools continue with online learning,” says Caren Forsten, Executive Director of the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington. “Parents should encourage frequent breaks from screen viewing,” Forsten adds.
POB provides free eye health information regarding eye strain and other topics to parents, school nurses, educators, and school leaders. For more information, call the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington at (202) 234-1010.
Founded in 1936, the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington (POB) is dedicated to the improvement and preservation of sight and quality of life by providing services and education, and by championing healthy vision and innovation to everyone in our area.
For more information, contact:
Nick Farano
Director of Development and Marketing
Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan WashingtonÆ
415 2nd Street N.E., Suite 200, Washington, DC 20002
202-234-1010 ext. 224 ï youreyes.org
If you have any questions about the presentation, please email Communications@YourEyes.org.

ONLINE: The Creative Spark Book Club (Free!)
2020-08-15 11:30 - 13:00 | Online
Facilitator: Sharon Burton, Spark Your CreativeClub size: 3-15 participants
Next Meeting Date: Saturday, August 15 from 10:30am-12pm
Location: ONLINE MEETING (Zoom details will be sent two days in advance)
Book: “The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life” by Twyla Tharp
(RSVP by August 12)
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 at Del Ray Artisans. We meet every other month on a Saturday morning 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 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 voted on by the group and announced on this website and in the Weekly eNews email the month prior.
RSVP Now
.l
Past Dates and Selected Books
September 28, 2019 Book: “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear” by Elizabeth Gilbert
November 16, 2019 Book: “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield
January 25, 2020 Book: “Trust The Process: An Artist’s Guide to Letting Go” by Shaun McNiff

August 15, 2020 Book: “The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life” by Twyla Tharp

ONLINE: Summer Member Meeting
2020-08-16 17:00 - 18:00 | Online
Join fellow members ONLINE for the Summer Membership Meeting on Sunday, August 16 from 4-5pm.
RSVP Now
Current members who RSVP in advance and attend will receive a $10 gift certificate to Pork Barrel BBQ! Unfortunately we can’t picnic together this year, but let’s individually patron Del Ray Artisans’ frequent sponsor Pork Barrel BBQ through take out during the pandemic.
The Office Manager will give an overview of the ALX Promise program during the meeting. The City of Alexandria Health Department and Visit Alexandria created the program for businesses and organizations to commit to higher safety standards for employees and customers. Del Ray Artisans’ staff have been ALX Promise certified since early June. The Board encourages interested members to also be trained.
This membership meeting will be online through the Zoom platform. Registered members will be sent login information via email the day before the workshop. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
RSVP before noon on August 15. Looking forward to seeing you online!
RSVP Now

Workshop: Playing with Resin (SOLD OUT)
2020-08-17 19:00 - 22:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop is sold out.
Workshop: Playing with Resin
Instructor: Tracy Wilkerson
Date/Time: Monday, August 17 from 6-9pm
Class size: 5-9 participants
(Register by August 14)
Learn the ins and outs of mixing resin and using it in your artwork as an adhesive, a covering, or the main medium. There’s lots of creative time during this 3-hour workshopÖno need to rush, which is one of the first lessons in using resin! 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.
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6? of personal space.
Register Now

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

CANCELLED: Sculpture Workshop Using Found Natural Materials
2020-08-22 11:00 - 14:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop has been cancelled.
Instructor: Jonathan Ottke
Date: Saturday, August 22 from 10am-1pm
Class size: 5-9 participants
(Register by August 18)
In this workshop we will create art from materials found in the natural world. Great art can be made from natural materials such as twigs, stones, shells, feathers, seeds, shells and clay – just like the art first created by humans and other creatures.
Some objects from the man-made world such as plastics and mirrors can be used to contrast against or enhance the art and others such as thread, string, glue, and screws to hold everything together.
There will be materials and tools such as saws, drills, and scissors for you to use or you can bring your own materials and tools. Examples will be on hand of things you can make. Explore the work of artists such as Agnes Denes, Andy Goldsworthy, Nils-Udo, Richard Shilling, Chris Jordan and Benjamin Von Wong for inspiration.
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6′ of personal space.
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View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

Gel Plate Printing Workshop: Monoprinting Without a Press
2020-08-25 19:00 - 22:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructors: Eileen O’Brien and Audrey Dervarics
Date: Tuesday, August 25 from 6-9pm
Class size: 4-6 participants
(Register by August 21)

Gel plate printing is a fun and easy way to create beautiful one-of-a-kind prints without a press. This class introduces the basic techniques of gel printing, with plates and all other materials provided. Participants will learn to pull prints using different paints and papers, found objects, stamps, stencils and natural elements. In the three-hour workshop, you will create multiple prints ready to mat and frame, use in collage, make greeting cards and so much more.
All supplies are included in the supplies fee, though participants may bring their own to personalize prints.
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6′ of personal space.
Register Now

Artwork credit: Gel plate print by Eileen O’Brien

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

Children's Vision Day - Back to Virtual School online presentation
2020-08-29 12:00 - 14:00 | Online
The in-person event has been canceled; however, check out these special presentations from the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan WashingtonÆ:
Back to Virtual School – Will your child be staring at screens all day long? Take this opportunity, celebrate “20/20”, and take control of your child’s eye health by learning what you need to know and can do!
Healthy Aging & Your Vision – Learn how our eyes and vision change over time, including common eye diseases and problems, prevention and treatments, and Medicare coverage of eye care all from an ophthalmologist (a medical eye doctor).
Please email communications@youreyes.org with any questions.

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

RESCHEDULED: Coaster Creations with Gel Prints
2020-09-15 19:00 - 22:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop has been rescheduled to September 20.
Instructors: Eileen O’Brien and Linda Mierke
Date: Tuesday, September 15 from 6-9pm
Class size: 4-6 participants
(Register by September 11)

This is a fun and easy way to design and create beautiful and functional art to keep or give as gifts—no experience necessary! Participants will learn the basics of print-making with gel plates through the manipulation of paints and mark-makers. These prints will then be decoupaged onto coaster tiles and sealed with an odorless varnish. Participants will create four coasters, along with other prints that can be framed as artwork or used as collage papers.
All supplies are included in the supplies fee, though participants may bring their own to personalize their coasters.
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6′ of personal space.
.

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

Gel Plate Printing Workshop: Monoprinting Without a Press
2020-09-19 17:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructors: Eileen O’Brien and Linda Mierke
Date: Saturday, September 19 from 4-7pm
Class size: 4-6 participants
(Register before September 18 at 4pm)

Gel plate printing is a fun and easy way to create beautiful one-of-a-kind prints without a press. This class introduces the basic techniques of gel printing, with plates and all other materials provided. Participants will learn to pull prints using different paints and papers, found objects, stamps, stencils and natural elements. In the three-hour workshop, you will create multiple prints ready to mat and frame, use in collage, make greeting cards and so much more.
All supplies are included in the supplies fee, though participants may bring their own to personalize prints.
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6′ of personal space.
Register Now
.

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

Workshop: Coaster Creations with Gel Prints
2020-09-20 17:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Registration is now closed.
Instructors: Eileen O’Brien and Linda Mierke
Date: Sunday, September 20 from 4-7pm
Class size: 4-6 participants
(Register by September 16)

This is a fun and easy way to design and create beautiful and functional art to keep or give as gifts—no experience necessary! Participants will learn the basics of print-making with gel plates through the manipulation of paints and mark-makers. These prints will then be decoupaged onto coaster tiles and sealed with an odorless varnish. Participants will create four coasters, along with other prints that can be framed as artwork or used as collage papers.
All supplies are included in the supplies fee, though participants may bring their own to personalize their coasters.
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6′ of personal space.
.

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

RESCHEDULED: Urban Sketchbooking
2020-10-11 14:00 - 16:00 | VA
The Sunday, October 11 has been rescheduled to Sunday, October 18.
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 October 2020, we will meet on the third Sunday of the month.
View Upcoming Dates

Workshop: Playing with Resin in Small Format
2020-10-12 19:00 - 22:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Registration closed.
Workshop: Playing with Resin
Instructor: Tracy Wilkerson
Date/Time: Monday, October 12 from 6-9pm
Class size: 5-9 participants
(Register by October 9)
Learn the ins and outs of mixing resin and using it in your artwork as an adhesive, a covering, or the main medium. There’s lots of creative time during this 3-hour workshopÖno need to rush, which is one of the first lessons in using resin! You’ll leave your finished small format masterpiece(s) to set at the gallery at the end of the workshop, and pick them up during gallery hours later in the week.
All supplies are included in the supplies fee. There are many choices to represent tribal peoples for Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and you may bring your own items to further customize your work.
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6? of personal space.
Register Now

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

ONLINE: The Creative Spark Book Club (Free)
2020-10-17 11:30 - 13:00 | Online
Facilitator: Sharon Burton, Spark Your CreativeClub size: 3-12 participants
Next Meeting Date: Saturday, October 17 from 10:30am-12pm
Book: “Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad” by Austin Kleon
(RSVP by October 14)
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 every other month on a Saturday morning 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 voted on by the group and announced on this website and in the Weekly eNews email the month prior.
RSVP Now
.
Past Dates and Selected Books
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
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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

CANCELED: Mixed-Media Nature Painting
2020-10-18 14:30 - 17:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Artwork by Susan Farrer
This workshop has been canceled, but may be rescheduled for the spring.
Workshop: Mixed-Media Nature Painting
Instructor: Susan Farrer
Date/Time: Sunday, October 18 from 1:30-4:30pm
Class size: 4-7 participants
(Register by October 15)
Create a nature-inspired mixed-media painting that includes fibers and acrylic paint on a 10 x 10? stretched canvas. Learn to combine yarns, gel medium, and metallic and other acrylic paints to create a one-of-a-kind textured painting that’s ready to hang on a wall. No painting experience needed!
All materials are included in the supply fee, though participants may bring yarns to use or share.
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6? of personal space.
Artwork by Susan Farrer
Artwork by Susan Farrer

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

ONLINE: 2020 Annual Member Meeting with Elections
2020-10-29 20:00 - 21:30 | Online
Thursday, October 29, 2020 starting at 7pm(Register & Vote before Oct 28 at Noon)

Register to attend the Annual Meeting
Vote Online for the 2021 Board of Directors

The meeting will be an online Zoom meeting. Registered members will be sent login information via email the day before the meeting. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Vote online now through October 28óthe results will be announced at the annual meeting.
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 2021. The new President, Dale Spivey, will present a special message about the organization and introduce the newly elected 2021 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 28) and attend the meeting are eligible for the drawing to win an artist’s easel. Three gently used easels will be given away at the end of the meeting. Easels must be picked up by the winners 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 voteóso 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 28 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 (10/22) or Friday (10/23) between noon and 6pm.
Slate of Nominees
If you are interested in running for a Board Position or have questions, contact President@DelRayArtisans.org. We are especially interested in filling the vacant positions, but you are welcome to run for any position on the Board, except for the advisory positions of Emeritus and Past President. The 2021 Board will begin its one-year term on January 1, 2021.
You may nominate yourself or another member before the Annual Meeting on October 29 by emailing President@DelRayArtisans.org. We are especially interested in filling the vacant positions, but you are welcome to run for any position on the Board, except for the advisory positions of Emeritus and Past President. The 2021 Board will begin its one-year term on January 1, 2021.
Here is the current slate of nominees for Del Ray Artisans’ 2021 Board of Directors:

President – Dale Spivey
Vice President – VACANT
Secretary – Kathryn Brown
Treasurer – Rita Schooley
Assistant Treasurer – Stephen Lally
Director ofÖ
Archives – Bill Cabrera
Communications – Kathy Stoner
Community – John Bordner
Curating – Kelly Postula
Facilities – Kurt Peterson
Fundraising Events – VACANT
Grants & Sponsorship – Karen Schmitz
Membership – Beth Richardson
Outreach – Kelly MacConomy
Programs – Erica Hughes
Technology – Dawn Wyse Hurto
Volunteers – Amy Kitchin Hower
Youth Programs – Suzan Ok
Advisory (Not Nominated by the Membership)
Emeritus (Selected by the Board of Directors) – Marlin Lord
Past President – Drew Cariaso

VOTE NOW

Vacant Positions
Vice President – “In the absence of the President, the Vice President shall perform the duties of the President.” This is a great supporting role that also may take on self-selected special projects for the organization.
Director of Fundraising Events – “Plans and implements one or more major fundraising events or activities during the year, to meet agreed-upon annual financial and fundraising goals.” During the pandemic, large events are not being planned; however, support is needed for the online Spring2ACTion event in April and other fundraising activities (such as assisting with grants and seeking sponsors).
Interested in running for a position? Email President@DelRayArtisans.org.

"Women's Right to Vote" Artist & Curator Talk (via Zoom)
2020-11-12 19:00 - 21:00 | Online
Learn more about the Women’s Right to Vote: 100 Years Since the 19th Amendment exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery and the award winners during this online discussion led by the curators, Amy Kitchin Hower and Karen Schmitz. The online event is on Thursday, November 12 from 7-9pm.
Join us at anytime during the event, but you must register by November 12 at 5pm. This event is hosted online via Zoom; connection information will be sent to registered participants via email the day before the talk and again on the day of the talk.
Register Now
The Women’s Right to Vote: 100 Years Since the 19th Amendment exhibit at Del Ray Artisans celebrates the achievements of women in the U.S. over the past 100 years, since the historic ratification of the 19th Amendment, which ensured that the right to vote could not be denied based on sex. This amendment also led the way to more social equality and social reform.
This art exhibit features the work of Del Ray Artisans members and local area high school students. Artwork explores the suffrage movement beginning in the 1850s, the Civil Rights movement of the 1950s and 60s, and the struggle that continues into present day. Progress is achieved in incremental steps, and the movement towards total equality in America continues. The year 2020 marks an unprecedented time of turmoil in U.S. history. One hundred years after the ratification of the 19th Amendment, and in the midst of a world-wide pandemic, a presidential race, social justice demonstrations, and economic recession, lift your voice and vote.
The Women’s Right to Vote: 100 Years Since the 19th Amendment exhibit runs November 6-28, 2020 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday & Friday 12-6pm, Saturday 12-4pm. Please wear a face mask and maintain 6? of personal space. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible.
For more information, please contact the curators Amy Kitchin Hower (alkitchin.dc@gmail.com), Karen Schmitz (kschmitzart@gmail.com), and Drew Cariaso (druamaart@comcast.net).

COVID-19 US Honor Quilt Special Event - FREE, OUTDOORS
2020-11-21 15:00 - 17:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
COVID-19 US Honor Quilt H*O*P*E on display at Del Ray Artisans; Photo courtesy of Kelly MacConomy
Join us on Saturday, November 21 from 3-5pm for the Paint-a-Panel event. During this event, you’ll paint your own panel for the COVID-19 U.S. Honor Quilt! LED candles will be lit at sunset in tribute to the frontline workers and those who lost their lives during the pandemic.
The event is outdoors in front of the H*O*P*E installation at Del Ray Artisans. Weather permitting; rain date is TBD. The event is FREE (donations appreciated) and open to all ages and artistic ability.
Please wear a face mask and maintain 6? of personal space. In compliance with the Governor’s Directive, the Paint-a-Panel event will be limited to 25 people.
There will also be “to go” kits for anyone interested in working on a 10.5 x 10.5? panel from home. The kit includes properly sized fabric, information about the project, and an entry form. Finished panels should be returned to Del Ray Artisans during regular hours: Thursday & Friday 12-6pm, Saturday 12-4pm (closed Thanksgiving Day). Alternatively, you may mail your square to COVID19 U.S. HONOR QUILT PROJECT, P.O BOX 2610, Purcellville, VA 20134.
Del Ray Artisans gallery will be open for extended hours during this event. Stop by to see the Women’s Right To Vote art exhibit! Del Ray Artisans is ALX Promise certified and is committed to the health and safety of our visitors. The gallery is limited to no more than 10 visitors at a time. Please wear a face mask and maintain 6? of personal space.

ONLINE: The Creative Spark Book Club
2021-01-09 10:30 - 12:00 | Online
Facilitator: Sharon Burton, Spark Your Creative
Club size: 3-20 participants
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.

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Upcoming Book
September 25, 2021 Book: “Show Your Work” by Austin Kleon
November 20, 2021 Book: “Creative Quest” by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson

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Past Dates and Books
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
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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

Urban Sketchbooking (Free)
2021-01-10 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.
View Upcoming Dates

CANCELLED: Collage in a Box Workshop
2021-01-10 13:30 - 16:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
“Inner Landscape” by Susan Farrer
This workshop has been cancelled.
Instructor: Susan Farrer
Date: Sunday, January 10 from 1:30-4:30pm
Class size: 4-7 participants
(Register by January 5)
The past year was unlike any other, challenging us to ask what really matters and what makes us happy, scares us, or inspires hope. Capture some of these ideas and images by creating a “hidden world” collage that tucks into a 7.5 x 10″ wooden box with a hinged lid. Learn about collage materials and techniques as you combine pictures of what’s important to you – whether something experienced in the natural world (people, plants, animals, birds, insects, even microscopic organisms), or in your personal or inner emotional world. The finished box will be ready to hang on a wall or display on a table. No experience needed!
“Pollination” by Susan Farrer
All materials are included in the supply fee, though participants are encouraged to bring personal pictures or other images to use or share. Please note that you must wear a face mask and maintain 6′ of personal space.
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View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

ONLINE: Partners in Art (FULL)
2021-01-11 14:00 - 16:00, 2021-02-08 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

Hidden Layers: The Joys of Gel Printing Workshop (FULL)
2021-01-24 15:00 - 18:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop is full.
“Ghosted Forest” gel plate print by Eileen O’Brien
Instructor: Eileen O’Brien
Date: Sunday, January 24 from 3-6pm
Class size: 4 participants
(Register by January 20)

Gel plate printing is a fun and easy way to create beautiful one-of-a-kind prints without a press. This class introduces the basic techniques of gel printing, and instruction on developing plates with multiple layers. Plates and all other materials provided. Participants will learn to pull prints using different paints and papers, found objects, stamps, stencils and natural elements. In the three-hour workshop, you will create multiple prints ready to mat and frame, use in collage, make greeting cards and so much more.
All materials are included in the supply fee, though participants are encouraged to bring personal pictures or other images to use or share. Please note that you must wear a face mask and maintain 6′ of personal space.
Register Now
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View other upcoming workshops, information about the facility, and policies on the Upcoming Workshops page.

ONLINE: Creative Revival – A 10-Week Course on The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
2021-01-25 18:30 - 20:00, 2021-02-01 18:30 - 20:00, 2021-02-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Online
Workshop: Creative Revival – A 10-Week Course on The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
Date/Time: Mondays from 6:30-8pm, starting January 25 through March 29 (10 weeks total)
Instructor: Sharon Burton
Cost: $125/member, $150/non-member
Class size: 5-12 participants
(Register by midnight on January 23)
Register now for the Creative Revival: A Course on The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron, a facilitated course by Sharon Burton that will meet once a week for 10 weeks as we go through The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. The program is focused on supporting relationships in removing artistic blocks and fostering confidence. Every week we will meet to discuss each chapter of the book, our daily journaling practice (via “The Morning Pages”), weekly Artist’s Dates and other exercises that will foster creativity and unblocking creativity.
The course will be held online via Zoom on Mondays from 6:30-8pm, starting January 25 through March 29. Students must purchase or obtain their own copy of the book The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron prior to attending the course.
Register Now!

About the Instructor: Sharon J. Burton is an artist, art curator, and creative life advisor, and member of Del Ray Artisans. She is a self-taught visual artist whose preferred medium is collage and mixed media and has exhibited her art in galleries, art venues and other settings across the country since 2007. Sharon has curated a number of art exhibitions in the Washington, DC area since 2005 and has served as an art consultant for novice art collectors.
Since 2007, Sharon’s artwork has been shown in juried exhibitions, galleries and alternative art spaces in the following cities: New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Columbia, Maryland, Silver Spring, Maryland, Washington, DC, Lorton, Virginia and Atlanta, Georgia. Her work can be found in private collections in Atlanta, Washington, DC and other places across the country. Learn more via Sharon J. Burton’s website.

VIA EMAIL: Partners in Art Evening
2021-01-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Online
In-person meetings have been cancelled until further notice; however, this program is offering monthly sharing & feedback via EMAIL. Contact Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com) for information.

All local artists, from beginners to professionals, are invited. We discuss the local art scene, exhibit opportunities, share artistic goals, techniques, media, and creative processes. Enjoy the collegiality and support of your fellow artists! Participants may also bring in 1-3 artworks, in any medium, in any stage, to discuss goals, process, and ask for advice.
This program is free, but donations ($1-3) are greatly appreciated. Contact Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com) with questions.
View Upcoming Meetings

Online Presentation: Improve Your Call for Entry Photographs
2021-02-10 19:00 - 20:00 | Online
February 14 Update: This presentation is now posted on Del Ray Artisans’ YouTube Channel. Subscribe to our FREE YouTube Channel now!
Watch Video

Amy Klene
Join Amy Klene online for a presentation on how to improve photographs of your artwork for Calls for Entry. Learn how to set up and photograph without an abundance of “gear”, as well as a few basic editing tips (some tweaks on exposure, brightness, black point, saturation, as well as cropping). The end goal is to provide an accurate impression of your artwork for curators and the public. This presentation focuses primarily on 2D work, but includes tips and considerations for 3D work as well.
The presentation will be online through the Zoom platform. Registered members will be sent the connection information via email the day before the meeting and again one hour before the meeting. You may attend on a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This presentation will be recorded and may be posted online in the future.

Register Now
About the Instructor: Amy Klene is a grandmother of nine. She started photography while in college but decided that, even though accepted for a MFA in Photography, it would not provide the steady income needed. Now that she has retired from IT contract project management, farmer’s markets (selling cut flowers, perennials, and shrubs), and her children are now on their own, she is enjoying once again having time to enjoy photography. She is an award-winning photographer and active member of the Manassas-Warrenton Camera Club, Virginia Beltway Photographers, Saab Club of North America, and Central Penn Saab. She lives near Manassas where she runs errands for her husband’s family business and Saab collection, helps with grandchildren, and actively pursues photography.

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