Del Ray Artisans

STEAM-tastic: From Cells to Biomes – Fluid Pours (Ages 10-15)
2024-08-31 11:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor Suzan Ok Shumate
Instructor: Suzan Ok Shumate, suzanok@gmail.com
Date/Time: Saturday, August 31, 11am-1pm
Cost: FREE, donations appreciated
(Register by August 30; drop-ins allowed space permitting)
Learn about life science with STEM teacher Suzan Shumate. You’ll explore life on Earth from the cells to ecosystems. Then, you’ll use acrylic pouring to create colorful, abstract paintings that look like cells, plants, or biomes. Wear clothes that can get paint on them.
The hands-on activity is for participants’ ages 10-15. Family members are welcome to attend, listen, and learn. Please contact the Youth Programs Director at youth@delrayartisans.org with any questions.
Register Now

STEAM-tastic @ DRA – Come join us at Del Ray Artisans for interactive classes about Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM), taught by professionals from each field! Geared toward kids and teens, each lesson has a short talk or demonstration and a hands-on craft project. Del Ray Artisans’ STEAM-tastic workshops are made possible with support from the City of Alexandria through the FY2025 Annual Arts Program Grant.

Artwork (top) credit: Acrylic pour by Suzan Ok Shumate

First Thursday Activity 6:30-8pm (Gallery Open 12-9pm)
2024-09-05 18:30 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Join us inside Del Ray Artisans gallery from 6:30-8pm on Thursday, September 5th for our family-friendly activity: a fibertastic selfie station and hands-on knitting instruction to celebrate the new exhibit! Come as a beginner or bring your experience adding rows to a Community Fiber Project. The event is free of charge and all ages and knitting skills are welcome.
Plus get a sneak peek of the Fascinating Fiber, Alluring Fabric art exhibit. Del Ray Artisans gallery is open 12-9pm on First Thursdays from April through September. This is the last First Thursday of 2024!

Every year from April through September Del Ray Business Association celebrates First Thursday, a Del Ray community event along Mount Vernon Avenue from 6pm until dusk on the first Thursday of the month.
Join the Del Ray community for live music and themed activities. The selected nonprofit for each date will be announced in advance and donations will be collected at the Pat Miller Neighborhood Square at the intersection of Mount Vernon and Oxford Avenues. Join us for the neighborhood themes:

April 11, 2024 (Postponed, then cancelled due to the weather) – Del Ray in Bloom
May 2, 2024 – Dog Days in Del Ray
June 6, 2024 – Jump into Summer
July 11, 2024 – Red, White and Blue (Gallery is closed to host Figure Drawing Bootcamp)
August 15, 2024 (Rescheduled from August 1 due to the weather) – Del Ray Olympics
September 5, 2024 – Saddle Up

Del Ray Artisans is a member of Del Ray Business Association.

Let's Explore Slow Stitching (Register by 9/7)
2024-09-08 12:30 - 14:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Christine Vinh
Date/Time: Sunday, September 8, 12:30pm-2:30pm
Cost: $45 Del Ray Artisans member / $55 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 6-10 participants
(Register by Thursday, September 7)
Slow Stitching seems to be all the rage in the fiber world at present. During this combination lecture and hands on session, Christine Vinh will share a variety of hand stitching techniques with samples and reference books. She will talk about the various materials and notions used in several of the techniques and then allow for hands-on practice.
Have you been intrigued by the terms slow stitching, modern hand stitching, sashiko and boro stitching and the mental health benefits these techniques are reported to have? Then you will want to join Christine Vinh for this event. Chris will talk about the differences and similarities of the various techniques along with sharing her own samples. She will share some of her go to reference books along with the materials and tools she uses in her own stitch practice. You will then have time to try your own hand at stitching some of the basic steps that she uses as her go to favorites. Chris’s work has been exhibited in a number of shows and galleries and has been featured on a number of Facebook Live events at Artistic Artifacts which have been archived on the Artistic Artifacts YouTube channel.
Hand stitching techniques covered will include modern hand stitching / embroidery, sashiko and boro stitching or visible mending. Participants will learn the basic stitches along with recommended notions / tools to use in starting a slow stitch practice. There will be time for everyone to practice several basic stitches with a variety of thread types.
The $10 supply fee includes various fabrics, threads, and needles for students to try. If you wish to take home needles and scissors, purchase the optional supply kit for $10 payable to the instructor during the workshop.
Register Now

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

Del Ray Urban Sketchers
2024-09-08 13:00 - 15:00 | St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, 2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Del Ray Urban Sketchers operates on a drop-in basis and meets the second Sunday of most months at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray. (Del Ray Urban Sketchers does not meet in July, August, and December.) Mark your calendar or set a reminder in Eventbrite.
Urban sketchbooking emphasizes storytelling that conveys a sense of place or a moment in time through drawings completed from direct observations.
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.
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.
RSVP via Eventbrite | View Upcoming Dates

Artwork credit: “Working Out (St. Elmo’s)” by Cathy Messina

Partners in Art (FULL)
2024-09-09 14:00 - 16:00, 2024-10-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The afternoon program is FULL. If you would like to join the evening program, 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 1-2 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.
View Upcoming Meetings

Introduction to Crochet (Three 1.5-Hour Classes; Register by 9/6)
2024-09-09 19:00 - 20:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Dawn Zurell
Date/Time: (Mondays) September 9, 16, and 23 from 7 to 8:30pm (Three 1.5 hour classes)
Cost: $75 Del Ray Artisans member / $85 Non-member; Bring own supplies
Class size: 2-8 participants
(Register by September 6)
This introduction class is great for those who have never tried crochet or have crocheted years ago, and want to restart their craft. It is spread out over three weeks, so you will have time to practice the techniques learned in each session. This format will set you up for success in your new hobby, and give you the basic skills needed to continue with future projects. You will also complete a pair of fingerless mitts!
This series of three 1.5-hour classes is for anyone aged 13+ years. The specific skills taught in this class are:

foundation chain
single crochet
half double crochet
double crochet
identifying and fixing simple mistakes

Additionally, you will learn common crochet terms, and be introduced to the vast array of yarns in the fiber world.
Materials you will need to bring to your first class:

150-200 yards of single ply worsted weight (#4) yarn, wool, wool blend, or other natural fiber in a light color (see yarn suggestions at the end of the class description)
US 8-H (5mm) crochet hook
Darning needle or notion kit/set

No preparation is needed, but if you would like to have a book to refer to, here are a couple suggestions:

Mini Hook Book: Learn to Crochet!
A to Z of Crochet: The Ultimate Guide for the Beginner to Advanced Crocheter

Suggestions for yarn:
Natural fibers, single ply yarn, and light colors are easiest for beginners, but we have included acrylic recommendations for those sensitive to wool.

2 skeins of Valley Yarns Berkshire, available at yarn.com
1 skein of Brown Sheep Lamb’s Pride Worsted, available at yarn.com
1 skein of Facets™ Yarn by Loops & Threads®, available at Michaels
2 skeins of Lion Brand® Landscapes® Fusion Yarn, available at Michaels and JoAnns
1 skein of Manos del Uruguay Maxima, available at Fibre Space, (please have it wound into a cake)

Register Now

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

Introduction to Knitting (Three 1.5-hour classes; Register by 9/9)
2024-09-12 19:00 - 20:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Dawn Zurell
Date/Time: (Thursdays) September 12, 19, and 26 from 7-8:30pm (Three 1.5 hour classes)
Cost: $75 Del Ray Artisans member / $85 Non-member; Bring own supplies
Class size: 2-8 participants
(Register by September 9)
This introduction class is great for those who have never tried knitting or have knitted years ago and want to restart their craft. It is spread out over three weeks, so you will have time to practice the techniques learned in each session. This format will set you up for success in your new hobby and give you the basic skills needed to continue with future projects. You will also complete a pair of fingerless mitts!
This series of three 1.5-hour classes is for anyone aged 13+ years. The specific skills taught in this class are:

cast on
knit stitch
purl stitch
bind off
“tinking” or working back
fixing simple mistakes

Additionally, you will learn common knitting terms, and be introduced to the vast array of yarns in the fiber world.
Materials you must bring to class:

150-200 yards single ply worsted weight (#4) yarn, wool, wool blend, or other natural fiber in a light color (see yarn suggestions at the end of the class description)
US #8 (5mm) bamboo needles in straight or circular
Darning needle or notion kit/set

No preparation is needed, but (if you would like to have a book to refer to) here are a couple suggestions:

Modern Daily Knitting Skill Set: Beginning Knitting
Interweave Knits Knitter’s Companion

Suggestions for yarn:
Natural fibers, single ply yarn, and light colors are easiest for beginners, but we have included acrylic recommendations for those sensitive to wool.

2 skeins of Valley Yarns Berkshire, available at yarn.com
1 skein of Brown Sheep Lamb’s Pride Worsted, available at yarn.com
1 skein of Facets™ Yarn by Loops & Threads®, available at Michaels
2 skeins of Lion Brand® Landscapes® Fusion Yarn, available at Michaels and JoAnns
1 skein of Manos del Uruguay Maxima, available at Fibre Space (please have it wound into a cake)

Register Now

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

STEAM-tastic: Painting with Virtual Reality (Ages 6-10)
2024-09-14 09:00 - 10:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Dr. Hurriyet Ok, Founder of VRT-U LLC
Date/Time: Saturday, September 14, 9am-10:30am
Cost: FREE, donations appreciated
(Register by September 13; drop-ins allowed space permitting)
Are you ready to step into a world where imagination meets technology? Join us for an exciting Immersive Art Workshop. In this workshop, you’ll dive into the cutting-edge realms of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) to bring your wildest artistic visions to life. You’ll explore the vibrant possibilities of Tilt Brush VR, where you can paint with light, craft sculptures out of thin air, and unleash your creativity in a fully immersive 3D environment. Additionally, you’ll discover the fascinating world of mobile AR apps to design interactive artworks that spring to life on your mobile device.
The hands-on activity is for participants’ ages 6-10. Family members are welcome to attend, listen, and learn. Please contact the Youth Programs Director at youth@delrayartisans.org with any questions.
Register Now

About the instructor: Dr. Hurriyet Ok is the founder of VRT-U LLC, a company dedicated to creating immersive learning experiences. He is a lecturer in Computer Science at George Washington University, where he teaches courses in Augmented and Virtual Reality. Dr. Ok also serves as a research fellow at the university’s Cybersecurity and Privacy Research Institute (CSPRI). With over 24 years of experience as a Senior Information Officer at the World Bank, Dr. Ok brings a wealth of knowledge to his work. He is a board member of the Global Co Lab Network (GCLN), an NGO focused on empowering youth, and a producer of award-winning community TV shows at Fairfax Public Access (FPA). Dr. Ok holds a Doctorate in Computer Science from George Washington University.

STEAM-tastic @ DRA – Come join us at Del Ray Artisans for interactive classes about Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM), taught by professionals from each field! Geared toward kids and teens, each lesson has a short talk or demonstration and a hands-on craft project. Del Ray Artisans’ STEAM-tastic workshops are made possible with support from the City of Alexandria through the FY2025 Annual Arts Program Grant.

STEAM-tastic: Painting with Virtual Reality (Ages 10-15)
2024-09-14 11:00 - 12:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Hurriyet Ok, Founder of VRT-U LLC
Date/Time: Saturday, September 14, 11am-12:30pm
Cost: FREE, donations appreciated
(Register by September 13; drop-ins allowed space permitting)
Are you ready to step into a world where imagination meets technology? Join us for an exciting Immersive Art Workshop. In this workshop, you’ll dive into the cutting-edge realms of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) to bring your wildest artistic visions to life. You’ll explore the vibrant possibilities of Tilt Brush VR, where you can paint with light, craft sculptures out of thin air, and unleash your creativity in a fully immersive 3D environment. Additionally, you’ll discover the fascinating world of mobile AR apps to design interactive artworks that spring to life on your mobile device.
The hands-on activity is for participants’ ages 10-15. Family members are welcome to attend, listen, and learn. Please contact the Youth Programs Director at youth@delrayartisans.org with any questions.
Register Now

About the instructor: Dr. Hurriyet Ok is the founder of VRT-U LLC, a company dedicated to creating immersive learning experiences. He is a lecturer in Computer Science at George Washington University, where he teaches courses in Augmented and Virtual Reality. Dr. Ok also serves as a research fellow at the university’s Cybersecurity and Privacy Research Institute (CSPRI). With over 24 years of experience as a Senior Information Officer at the World Bank, Dr. Ok brings a wealth of knowledge to his work. He is a board member of the Global Co Lab Network (GCLN), an NGO focused on empowering youth, and a producer of award-winning community TV shows at Fairfax Public Access (FPA). Dr. Ok holds a Doctorate in Computer Science from George Washington University.

STEAM-tastic @ DRA – Come join us at Del Ray Artisans for interactive classes about Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM), taught by professionals from each field! Geared toward kids and teens, each lesson has a short talk or demonstration and a hands-on craft project. Del Ray Artisans’ STEAM-tastic workshops are made possible with support from the City of Alexandria through the FY2025 Annual Arts Program Grant.

Beaded Lanyard Thingies Workshop (Register by 9/13)
2024-09-15 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Amy Castine, amy.castine@aim.com
Date/Time: Sunday, September 15, 6-9pm
Cost: $60 Del Ray Artisans member / $80 Non-member; plus a $10 supply fee
Class size: 4-8 participants
(Register by Friday, September 13)
Join instructor Amy Castine for a great introduction to off loom bead weaving as you learn to make your own lanyard/glasses keeper. This versatile beaded rope is a useful and beautiful way to hold some of the necessities of life while adding your personal style to any outfit. You will also have a chance to do a little beginner wire wrapping and make a lovely pendant to transform your lanyard into a necklace. Sign up today as space is limited!
The supply fee includes all the materials to make a similar piece—but not identical—to the photo. Each piece will be one-of-a-kind.
Register Now

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

Introduction to Crochet Class
2024-09-16 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-09-23 19:00 - 20:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This time is reserved for the Introduction to Crochet classes on (Mondays) September 9, 16, and 23 from 7 to 8:30pm (three 1.5 hour classes). You must register before midnight on September 6 to attend.

Life Drawing Session – Gesture and Short Pose
2024-09-17 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-09-24 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-10-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Drop-in and practice life drawing on two select Tuesday evenings each month. Bring your supplies and join us at the gallery to draw or paint our nude model.
Traditional drawing media (such as pencils, pens, and charcoal) are welcome; and pastels, watercolor and ink are permissible. Please do not bring acrylics or oil paints. We don’t supply easels – only plenty of chairs – but you are welcome to bring your own easel if you want to use one. All skill levels are welcome.
The first part of this session will be focused on gesture poses (dynamic 1-5 minute poses) to loosen up and participate in a fun, fast-paced drawing experience. The second hour will be a few short poses for more detailed drawings leading up to up to two 20-minute poses.
Fee for each session is $8 for Del Ray Artisans members and $10 for non-members. Register now or pay at the gallery before the session. If you have any questions or would like to participate as a model for our sessions, please contact Brando Gould at LifeDrawing@DelRayArtisans.org.
View artwork from past DRA Life Drawing Sessions on Instagram! Tag #dralifedraw or @dralifedraw for your work to be featured.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Register Now | View Upcoming Sessions

Artwork credit: “To The Beat” by Katherine Rand

Partners in Art Evening (RSVP in Advance)
2024-09-18 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-10-16 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 BEFORE the day of the meeting.
This program is free. Donations ($1-3) are greatly appreciated. Contact Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com) with questions.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
View Upcoming Meetings

Introduction to Knitting Class
2024-09-19 19:00 - 20:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This time is reserved for the Introduction to Knitting classes on (Thursdays) September 12, 19, and 26 from 7-8:30pm (three 1.5 hour classes). You must register before midnight on September 9 to attend.

Painting with Bleach Workshop (Register by 9/17)
2024-09-20 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Erica Exline
Date/Time: Friday, September 20 from 7-9pm
Cost: $35 Del Ray Artisans member / $45 Non-member; plus a $10 supply fee
Class size: 5-12 participants
(Register Tuesday, September 17)
In this class you will learn to paint with bleach on fabric. Techniques will include drawing a design with chalk on fabric and using paint brushes, spray bottles, and stencils to create fun designs and images. Supplies are included, but you will need to bring one or more items to bleach. These items can be t-shirts, sweatshirts, pillow cases, tote bags, etc… and they MUST be black or a very dark shade of red, orange, green, blue, or purple. I’m looking forward to an evening of creating one of a kind bleach art with you!
Register Now

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

Spinning Wool Demonstration
2024-09-22 11:30 - 12:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Margo Crim
Date/Time: Sunday, September 22, 11:30am-12:30pm
Cost: Free!
Class size: up to 30 participants
(Register by September 21)
Join fiber enthusiast Margo Crim as she shows the steps from fiber to yarn! Handle a hank of raw wool and see what happens when it’s washed! Join her for story telling about historical practices in carding, other processes that happen to wool, and try carding and hand-spinning yourself!
Register Now

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

Playing with Resin Workshop (Register by 9/22)
2024-09-22 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Tracy Wilkerson, recycledworks@yahoo.com
Date/Time: Sunday, September 22 from 6-9pm
Cost: $40 Del Ray Artisans member / $50 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 6-12 participants
(Register by September 22)
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! All supplies are provided, but feel free to bring personal embellishments for your piece(s).
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).
Register Now

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

CANCELED: Unleash Your Creativity: Acrylic Painting Class (Register by 9/24)
2024-09-26 18:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Edom Alagaw, E21edomgeta@gmail.com
Date/Time: Thursday, September 26, 6-8pm
Cost: $32 Del Ray Artisans member / $42 Non-member; participants bring own supplies
Class size: 6-12 participants
(Register by September 24)
Join our acrylic painting class and unleash your creativity! This class is perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike. You’ll learn essential techniques, such as color mixing, brushwork, and layering, while creating your own vibrant masterpiece. Our step-by-step instruction ensures a fun and supportive environment where you can explore your artistic potential. Bring your own acrylic paints and brushes and enjoy a relaxing, inspiring experience.
Materials you must bring to class:

Acrylic Paints: A basic set of primary colors (red, blue, yellow), plus black and white. You may expand with secondary colors (green, orange, purple) and some earth tones (brown, sienna).
Brushes: A variety of brush sizes and shapes, including flat, round, and detail brushes. Synthetic brushes are suitable for acrylics.
Palette: A palette for mixing your paints. A plastic or glass palette is ideal, but a disposable paper palette also works.
Canvas or Painting Surface: Stretched canvas, canvas boards, or canvas paper. For beginners, canvas boards or paper are usually more economical.
Palette Knife: For mixing paints and creating texture on your painting.
Water Container: A container for rinsing your brushes.
Cloths/Paper Towels: For cleaning brushes and wiping up spills.
Apron/Old Clothes: Acrylic paint can be hard to remove from fabric once dry, so wear something you don’t mind getting messy.
Spray Bottle: To keep your paints moist on the palette.
Pencil and Eraser: For sketching your initial design on the canvas.
Storage Box/Bag: To keep all your supplies organized and easy to transport.

Optional materials:

Easel: A tabletop easel if you prefer to paint at an angle, though this is optional and depends on your comfort.
Mixing Mediums: Optional, but you might want to have some acrylic mediums like gloss medium, matte medium, or modeling paste to experiment with different textures and finishes.

Register Now

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

Nature Journaling Club
2024-09-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Practiced by artists and naturalists alike, nature journaling is a centuries-old exercise in refining our powers of observation, appreciation for nature, drawing skills, and mindful presence. This group is open to all experience levels as we meet to sketch, connect, and learn together!
We meet at 10am in front of Del Ray Artisans on the final Saturday morning of the month (except not in July, November, and December). Mark your calendar or set a reminder in Eventbrite.
Participants will need to bring their own sketchbooks and supplies. We will have plenty of time for sketching in nature before gathering again at 11:30am to share our sketches and observations and discuss tips and tools for nature journaling in the wild. We hope you will join us as we strengthen our art and inquiry practice together!
Suggested supplies: sketchbook, pens, pencils, colored pencils, watercolor pencils, or other portable media, and a water bottle since we will be outdoors. You may also want to bring something to sit on (folding chair or blanket).
NOTE: This program is held outdoors and will be canceled if raining.
This program is FREE! Donations appreciated. For more information, contact the coordinators: Stephanie Darlene Greenwald (stephanie@stephaniedarlene.com) and Meredith D’Amore (meredith.w.damore@gmail.com).
View Upcoming Dates

Artwork credit: Drawing by Meredith D’Amore

CANCELLED: Intro to Art Trading Cards (ATCs) featuring Fabric French Roses (Register by 9/26)
2024-09-28 12:00 - 14:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Sue Rosenbaum
Date/Time: Saturday, September 28, 12pm-2:30pm
Cost: $32 Del Ray Artisans member / $42 Non-member, plus $20 supply fee
Class size: 6-20 participants
(Register by September 26)
Join Sue Rosenbaum for an introduction to ATCs (Art Trading Cards) and create your own featuring a fabric French Rose and vintage book page collaged background. These 2.5 x3.5” mini art pieces are such fun to create and trade.
During this workshop, Sue will take you on a creative journey into the wonderful world of ATCs with a Show and Tell of her collection while we collage a background and embellish with layered fabric flowers and a vintage button. Following the principles of ATCs, we will trade with one another at the end of the class!
Note: Machine stitching on the background will not be a part of this class.
Register Now

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

Introduction to Knitting Class
2024-10-03 19:00 - 20:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This time is reserved for the Introduction to Knitting classes on (Thursdays) September 12, 19, and October 3 from 7-8:30pm (three 1.5 hour classes). You must register before midnight on September 9 to attend.

STEAM-tastic: Design a Robot at Art on the Avenue (Ages 6+)
2024-10-05 11:00 - 16:00 | Mount Vernon Recreation Center Athletic Fields, 2701 Commonwealth Ave, Alexandria, 22301, United States
Instructor Suzan Ok Shumate
Instructor: Suzan Ok Shumate
Date/Time: Saturday, October 5, 11am-4pm
Cost: FREE, donations appreciated
(Drop-in, this is a self-paced activity)
Design your own robot during our drop-in activity in the Kids Art Corner at Art on the Avenue. The Kids Art Corner is located outdoors in the Mount Vernon Recreation Center fields. Come anytime between 11am-4pm to make your own robot. Children may create their robot on paper at our sticker station or sculpt their robot using Squishy circuits to explore the conductivity of Play-Doh using batteries and LED lights (while supplies last).
The hands-on activity is for participants ages 6 years old or greater. Family members are welcome. Please contact the Youth Programs Director at youth@delrayartisans.org with any questions.

Photo (top) from Squishy Circuits

STEAM-tastic @ DRA – Come join us at Del Ray Artisans for interactive classes about Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM), taught by professionals from each field! Geared toward kids and teens, each lesson has a short talk or demonstration and a hands-on craft project. Del Ray Artisans’ STEAM-tastic workshops are made possible with support from the City of Alexandria through the FY2025 Annual Arts Program Grant.

Playing with Resin Workshop (Register ASAP)
2024-10-06 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Tracy Wilkerson, recycledworks@yahoo.com
Date/Time: Sunday, October 6 from 6-9pm
Cost: $40 Del Ray Artisans member / $50 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 6-12 participants
(Register in advance; Walk-ins welcome, space permitting)
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! All supplies are provided, but feel free to bring personal embellishments for your piece(s).
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).
Register Now

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

Chirilagua Neighborhood Arts Day / Día de las Artes del Barrio de Chirilagua
2024-10-12 12:00 - 16:00 | Casa Chirilagua / Four Mile Run Conservatory, 4109 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22305, United States
Photo collage credit: Photographs of MakersFEST 2022 courtesy of Karen Schmitz

English ↓ | Español ↓

Call for Volunteers
Seeking volunteers to help manage the Del Ray Artisans information tent, art-making tents, engage the public, and keep the event attendance tally. Volunteers are needed for both shifts: 11am-2pm (also assists with set-up) and 2pm-5pm (also assists with take down). If you are interested but unable to lift things like chairs, that is OK! Engagement with the community is the biggest priority! To sign up, email Morgan at volunteers@delrayartisans.org.

Chirilagua Neighborhood Arts Day
Come enjoy Chirilagua Neighborhood Arts Day—a free, outdoor, community art-making event on Saturday, October 12, 12-4pm at the Four Mile Run Conservatory (4109 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA). The event is organized by Del Ray Artisans in partnership with Casa Chirilagua.
Marimba Maya Awal
Artist instructors will lead hands-on art activities for all ages, including ColorWOW drawing, brite kites, paper flowers, gelli prints, and Guatemalan worry dolls. Live music will be performed by the band Marimba Maya Awal to get your toes tapping. Don’t miss this family-friendly event!
Note: If it rains, the art-making activities will be moved inside the Four Mile Run Conservatory building.

In 2024, Alexandria is celebrating its 275th anniversary. The Arts 275th Commemorative Program Grant is funded through a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and the City of Alexandria, VA. The Arts 275th Commemorative Program Grant was established and was available to eligible nonprofit organizations to create art programs and events to honor the past through artistic historical reflections or commissions, embrace the now with thought-provoking art projects mirroring neighborhoods’ culture, and celebrate the city’s future with innovative art projects.
The Chirilagua Neighborhood Arts Day program is made possible through the Arts 275th Commemorative Program Grant from the City of Alexandria, VA through the Office of the Arts. This project is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. To find out more about how National Endowment for the Arts grants impact individuals and communities, visit www.arts.gov.

Día de las Artes del Barrio de Chirilagua
Venga a disfrutar del Día de las Artes del Barrio de Chirilagua, un evento gratuito de creación de arte comunitario al aire libre el sábado 12 de octubre, de 12 a 4 p. m. en el Conservatorio Four Mile Run (4109 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA). El evento es organizado por Del Ray Artisans en asociación con Casa Chirilagua.
Marimba Maya Awal
Los instructores de artistas dirigirán actividades artísticas prácticas para todas las edades, incluyendo el dibujo de ColorWOW, cometas británicas, flores de papel, estampados de gelli y muñecas de preocupación guatemaltecas. La banda Marimba Maya Awal interpretará música en vivo para que se muevan tus pies. ¡No te pierdas este evento familiar!
Nota: Si llueve, las actividades de creación de arte se trasladarán dentro del edificio del Conservatorio Four Mile Run.

En 2024, Alexandria está celebrando su 275 aniversario. La Beca del Programa Conmemorativo Arts 275th está financiada a través de una subvención de la Fundación Nacional para las Artes y la Ciudad de Alexandria, VA. La Beca del Programa Conmemorativo de las Artes 275 se estableció y estuvo disponible para organizaciones sin fines de lucro elegibles para crear programas y eventos de arte para honrar el pasado a través de reflexiones o encargos históricos artísticos, abrazar el ahora con proyectos de arte que invitan a la reflexión que reflejan la cultura de los vecindarios y celebrar el futuro de la ciudad con proyectos de arte innovadores.
El programa del Día de las Artes del Barrio de Chirilagua es posible gracias a la Beca del Programa Conmemorativo de las Artes 275 de la Ciudad de Alexandria, VA a través de la Oficina de las Artes. Este proyecto cuenta con el apoyo en parte de la Fundación Nacional para las Artes. Para obtener más información sobre cómo las subvenciones de la Fundación Nacional para las Artes afectan a las personas y comunidades, visite www.arts.gov.

Paper flower making / Flores de papel (Karen Schmitz)
Brite Kite / Cometas británicas (Roxanne Bradley-Tate)
Guatemalan worry dolls / Muñecas de preocupación guatemaltecas (Guy Jones)
Gelli Print / Estampados de gelli (Karen Schmitz)

CANCELLED: Del Ray Urban Sketchers
2024-10-13 13:00 - 15:00 | St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, 2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
UPDATE: We are not meeting on Sunday, October 13. The next session will be Sunday, November 10.
Del Ray Urban Sketchers operates on a drop-in basis and meets the second Sunday of most months at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray. (Del Ray Urban Sketchers does not meet in July, August, and December.) Mark your calendar or set a reminder in Eventbrite.
Urban sketchbooking emphasizes storytelling that conveys a sense of place or a moment in time through drawings completed from direct observations.
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.
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.
View Upcoming Dates

Artwork credit: “Working Out (St. Elmo’s)” by Cathy Messina
