Del Ray Artisans

"Hello, Bright Eyes" Artwork Pick Up by Appointment
2020-08-29 15:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Time for artists to pick up their unsold artwork from the closing show, Hello, Bright Eyes, by appointment only.
Questions? Contact the curators Stephanie Chan (vangoat.studios@gmail.com) and Tracy Wilkerson (recycledworks@yahoo.com)

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.

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.

2021 Exhibit Selection Committee Meeting
2020-08-24 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This time is reserved for the 2021 Exhibit Selection Committee.
Not open to the public.
Question? Please contact the committee chairs: Liz Martinez (catniphaze@gmail.com) and Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com).

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.

2021 Art Exhibit Proposal Deadline
2020-08-21 00:50 - 00:59 | Online
Call for Proposals2021 Art Exhibits at Del Ray Artisans
Proposal deadline extended to Thursday, August 20, 2020 by midnight
“Tell Me a Story” exhibit at Del Ray Artisans, March 2020
Del Ray Artisans is seeking exhibit proposals for next year’s calendar. Del Ray Artisans strives to offer exhibits that reach a broad and diverse audience, encourage artistic development, and represent a wide variety of art forms. The Exhibit Selection Committee will review all proposals and make recommendations to the Board for final approval.
Proposal Form

"Art by Mail II" Call for Entry Deadline
2020-08-21 00:50 - 00:59 | Online
Call for Entry ~ Open to Del Ray Artisans Members
Art by Mail II Online Art Exhibit
September 1 – November 1, 2020
Digital entries due: Thursday, August 20, 2020 by midnight
“Stitch Meditation #3” by Christine Vinh
Enter your original small 2D and 3D mailable art. Each entry may be one piece or a small collection that is mailed together. When art sells, you will mail it directly to the purchaser. The art should be deliverable as regular U.S. mail or similar service. Open theme. No entry fee.
Art by Mail II is a Del Ray Artisans members only exhibit. If you are not a member, you may join Del Ray Artisans now to enter.
Entry Details & Form

"Art in Movement" Call for Entry Deadline
2020-08-18 00:00 - 00:59 | Online
Call for Entry ~ Open to All Area Artists
Art in Movement, Journey through Dance
Exhibit Dates: September 4-27, 2020
Deadline extended to Monday, August 17, 2020 by midnight
This art exhibit celebrates the joys of movement through dance and features the art of Belly Dance. Belly Dance is expressed in many styles that communicate different cultures, languages, dress, and musicówhile taking you on a journey around the world. Immerse yourself in one of these dance styles and illustrate your unique interpretation.
This exhibit will have an Art-to-Go Marketplace. Entries for the marketplace are also now due August 17. Details in the Call for Entry.
Entry Details & Form

Online belly dance themed figure drawing sessions
DC Art Model Collective (DCAMC) is offering belly dance themed figure drawing sessions online. Each model organizes and runs their own sessions. Mark your calendar for these Zoom sessions:
Egyptian/Cabaret Belly Dance Theme with Kenyatta
Thursday, July 16 from noon-1pm
For session details and registration, email kn.ali@icloud.com
This will be one long sustained pose in increments of 20 minutes with 5-minute breaks. Kenyatta also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 1-hour lunch-time session.
Tribal Belly Dance Theme with Jalene
Monday, July 20 from 2-4pm
For session details and registration, email jalene99@gmail.com
Jalene will record additional material as movement studies in video form that artists are welcome to purchase from her directly. Jalene also has video/photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 2-hour session.
Persian Belly Dance Theme with Shadiyah
Tuesday, July 21 from 7-10pm
For session details and registration, email shadiyah@shadiyahdances.com
Shadiyah also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 3-hour session.
Belly Dance: Hands and Arms with Sheba
Wednesday, July 22 from 2-4pm
For session details and registration, email blueriverdream@gmail.com
This will be a live progressive gesture session focusing on close ups of hands and arms. Sheba will record additional material as movement studies in video form that artists are welcome to purchase from her directly. Sheba also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 2-hour session.
Saidi Belly Dance Theme with Gazelle
Saturday, July 25 from 10am-1pm
For session details and registration, email gazellesartspace@gmail.com
This will be a sustained pose session after 2 quick costumed warm up poses. Gazelle will record additional material as movement studies in video form that artists are welcome to purchase from her directly. Gazelle also has video/ photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 3-hour session.
Tribal Fusion Belly Dance Theme with Sarah
Sunday, July 26 from 2-4pm & Thursday, July 30 from 7-9pm
For session details and registration, email indigoafterall@gmail.com
Sarah also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend either of these 2-hour sessions.
Cabaret/Egyptian Dance Theme with Emily
Wednesday, July 29 from 2-4pm
For session details and registration, email ebutterfield4@gmail.com
Emily also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 2-hour session.
Check the DCAMC Calendar for additional sessions and details

More information on some of the styles of Belly Dance
Egyptian/Cabaret Style
In Egyptian style the movements tend to be more internalized and small than in other styles of belly dance. Even the smallest movement in Egyptian raqs sharqi, if performed well, is quite dramatic. Egyptian raqs include some ballet and ballroom dance influences, such as in footwork (for example the use of arabesque) and in stance and arm positions, although adapted to an oriental style. Watch Video of Egyptian/Cabaret Style
Balkan/Gypsy Style
Gypsy style belly dance is a broad interpretation of the dance style of Romani people. It uses core belly dance moves with Roma and Middle Eastern folkloric steps. It is high energy and very passionate with zills and skirts are often used. It also uses Roma and Balkan music. Gypsy belly dancers wear many fabrics to create volume, harem pants, vests, blouses, ethnic jewelry, and fringed shawls. Watch Video of Balkan/Gypsy Style
Folkloric Style
Saidi is a folkloric dance from Sa’id, a rural area in Upper Egypt that features bouncy horse-styled steps and large chest and shoulder movements. It frequently incorporates a stick or cane, called an Assaya, which is twirled in various ways and used to frame and accent movements. Watch Video of Folkloric Style
Tribal Style
Tribal Fusion belly dance combines belly dance with many different style of dance. The more common fusion styles are Flamenco, Bollywood, Hip-Hop, and Ballet. It uses all styles of music from traditional to modern. Costume varies greatly and depends on what style the belly dance is being fused with. Watch Video of Tribal Style
Persian Style
Classical Persian dance is a style of concert dance that evolved from courtroom dance. Dancers performed artistic dances in the court of the Shah for entertainment purposes such as coronations, marriage celebrations, and Norouz celebrations (Iranian new year). Watch Video of Persian Style
Odissi Style
Odissi also referred to as Orissi in older literature, is a major ancient Indian classical dance that originated in the Hindu temples of Odisha – an eastern coastal state of India. Odissi, in its history, was performed predominantly by women, and expressed religious stories and spiritual ideas. Watch Video of Odissi Style
Call for Entry Details & Form

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.

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

Alexandria Sidewalk Sale
2020-08-15 13:00 - 17:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Shop local art!
Every day the gallery offers one-of-a-kind affordable artwork, but during the Sidewalk Sale we’ll have OUTSIDE in front of the gallery a selection of affordable artwork AND ON SALE bin art, PLUS a special promotion:
Get a FREE T-shirt or upcycled tote bag (while supplies last) with artwork purchase of $100 or more!
Take a peek inside the gallery too to see the Hello, Bright Eyes exhibit! Del Ray Artisans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization.

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
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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 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: Board Meeting (Aug 2020)
2020-08-11 19:00 - 21:00 | Online
This Board meeting will a virtual session.
Active members are welcome to visit any Board meeting. If you wish to address the Board or bring something up to the Board during one of these meetings, contact Kathryn Brown at Secretary@DelRayArtisans.org at least in four days advance of the meeting to be included on the agenda.

Del Ray Artisans 2021 Wall Calendar Entry Deadline
2020-08-11 00:50 - 00:59 | Online
Call for Entry (Open to Members Only)Del Ray Artisans’ 2021 Wall Calendar
Digital entries due: Monday, August 10, 2020
Members: Submit your best work to the 8th annual Del Ray Artisans’ calendar! All entries are to be received digitally, and no physical pieces of art will be collected. There is no entry fee, no theme, and work previously shown at Del Ray Artisans is acceptable. Your Del Ray Artisans membership must be up-to-date.
The Calendar Selection Committee will choose approximately 50-60 pieces of art from Del Ray Artisans members to be included in the 2021 Wall Calendar. This calendar is a fundraiser to benefit Del Ray Artisans, but also a fun way to show your support for our arts organization and share your talent with the community.
Entry Details & Form

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.

CANCELLED: Knitting with Wire (Jewelry Making) Workshop
2020-08-08 12:00 - 16:00 | 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.

"Hello, Bright Eyes" Exhibit Opens (No Reception)
2020-08-07 13:00 - 19:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Hello, Bright Eyes Art Exhibit
August 7 – 29, 2020
“ICU” by Tracy Wilkerson
There will not be an opening reception, but you may enjoy the artwork at your leisure on Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-6pm, and Saturdays 12-4pm. Please wear a face mask and maintain 6? of personal space.
The Hello, Bright Eyes art exhibit raises the visibility of healthy vision. This exhibit features artwork focusing on eyes, eyesight, or all the wonders the eyes provide us throughout our years. Some of the artwork in this exhibit reuses old glasses, lenses and eyeglass ëarms’ donated by the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan WashingtonÆ. Come see these upcycled pieces, along with paintings, photographs, sculptures and more. Join us this month to see what artists created for this fun exhibit!

Healthy Aging & Your Vision – Thursday, June 11, 1-2:30pm Ö A presentation on aging eyes, vision and medicare basics. An ophthalmologist will be present as well.
Playing with Resin – 2 different workshops

Sunday, June 14, 6-9pm
Monday, June 15, 6-9pm

Children’s Vision Day – Saturday, June 27, 11am-1pm Ö free children’s vision screening.
Patching & Beyond: Support for parents of children with Amblyopia & Strabismus – Saturday, June 27, 1 – 2:30pm Ö Topics include: Correct patching techniques and compliance, Explaining vision issues to your child, Explaining vision patch to others who ask, and Adjusting approach by age. This will be a presentation and discussion led by pediatric ophthalmologist and parents.

The Hello, Bright Eyes exhibit runs August 7-29, 2020 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are: Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-6pm, and Saturdays 12-4pm. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible.
For more information, please contact the curators Stephanie Chan (vangoat.studios@gmail.com) and Tracy Wilkerson (recycledworks@yahoo.com).

Hello, Bright Eyes (8/7-8/29)
2020-08-07 - 2020-08-29 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Hello, Bright Eyes Art Exhibit
August 7 – 29, 2020
“ICU” by Tracy Wilkerson
The Hello, Bright Eyes art exhibit raises the visibility of healthy vision. This exhibit features artwork focusing on eyes, eyesight, or all the wonders the eyes provide us throughout our years. Some of the artwork in this exhibit reuses old glasses, lenses and eyeglass ëarms’ donated by the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan WashingtonÆ. Come see these upcycled pieces, along with paintings, photographs, sculptures and more. Join us in August to see what artists created for this fun exhibit! You may also view this exhibit online and purchase artwork to pick up.
Photo Album
This exhibit will also include special events for our eyes (and other senses)! All events require registering in advance:

Healthy Aging & Your Vision – Special Video Presentation will be posted on Tuesday, August 11 – 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).
.
Back to Virtual School – Special Video Presentation will be posted on Saturday, August 15 – 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!
.
Playing with Resin – Monday, August 17, 6-9pm – Learn the ins & 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 workshop—no need to rush which is one of the first lessons in using resin!
.

Special thanks to our exhibit sponsor: Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan WashingtonÆ.
The Hello, Bright Eyes exhibit runs August 7-29, 2020 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
Please wear a face mask in the gallery and maintain 6? of personal space. Gallery hours are: Thursday & Friday 12-6pm, Saturday 12-4pm. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible.
Photo Album
For more information, please contact the curators Stephanie Chan (vangoat.studios@gmail.com) and Tracy Wilkerson (recycledworks@yahoo.com).

First Thursday (Gallery Open 12-6pm)
2020-08-06 18:00 - 21:00, 2020-07-02 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Del Ray Artisans celebrates First Thursday, a Del Ray community event from 6-9pm along Mount Vernon Avenue from April through September. Each month has a different theme.
The 2020 themes are:

April 2 – Event Cancelled; Gallery Closed
May 7 – Porch Party in Del Ray; Gallery Closed
June 4 – Vigil For George Floyd; Food Drive for MVCS Blessings in a Backpack; Gallery Closed
July 2 – Porch Party: Red, White, and Blue; Gallery closed in the evenings, but open Thursday & Friday 12-6pm and Saturday 12-4pm
August 6 – Porch Party: Aloha Thursday; Gallery closed in the evenings, but open Thursday & Friday 12-6pm and Saturday 12-4pm
September 3 – Porch Party: Dog Days in Del Ray; Gallery closed in the evenings, but open Thursday & Friday 12-6pm and Saturday 12-4pm

"Take Away Art" Artwork Pick Up by Appointment
2020-08-01 13:00 - 17:00, 2020-07-31 13:00 - 19:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Artists may pick up their unsold artwork from the closing show, Take Away Art, today by appointment.
Need an appointment? Contact the curators Dawn Wyse Hurto (Technology@DelRayArtisans.org) and Dale Spivey (VP@DelRayArtisans.org).

CANCELLED: Art Camp 2020
2020-07-20 - 2020-07-31 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Art Camp 2020 has been cancelled.
WEEK ONE: July 20-24, 2020 from 9am-4pm daily
(with gallery show on Saturday, July 25, 1-3pm)
or
WEEK TWO: July 27-31, 2020 from 9am-4pm daily
(with gallery show on Saturday, Aug 1, 1-3pm)
For Ages: 8-14 (no more than 18 children per week)

Del Ray Artisans invites young campers to spend a week creating art with professional artist instruction. All artist supplies are provided. There will also be a one-day only gallery show held on the Saturday after camp to show off the students’ work from their week.
Art Camp will be at the Del Ray Artisans gallery at the Nicholas A. Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301. The gallery is accessible. For more information, contact our Youth Programs Director, Sharon Holland, at Youth@DelRayArtisans.org and the Office Manager, Anna Sherlock, at Gallery@DelRayArtisans.org.
Registration
Walk-ins are NOT allowed. You must register in advance. Register for either Week One or Week Two. Cost is $300/child until June 1 and $325/child after June 1. Your application is not complete until both the registration form and payment are received. You may pay with cash, check, or credit card at the gallery or by credit card online (instructions in the application).
Registration is closed.
Scholarship support may be available – contact Gallery@DelRayArtisans.org or stop by the gallery for an application.

Sponsor a Camper
Every year Del Ray Artisans offers scholarships to children who cannot otherwise afford to attend this magical camp. Interested in sponsoring a camper? For a donation of $300 you can send a youth to camp for a week (all art supplies and instruction fees are included), but donations are welcome in any amount. Thank you for your support.
Donate Now
Thank you to Kiwanis Club Alexandria for sponsoring art camp.
Thank you to Community Partners MCD Mateos for sponsoring art camp.
Thank you to Oriental Trading for sponsoring camp art supplies

Online belly dance themed figure drawing sessions from DCAMC
2020-07-16 - 2020-07-30 | Online
DC Art Model Collective (DCAMC) is offering belly dance themed figure drawing sessions online.
Each model organizes and runs their own sessions. We hope these online sessions inspire you to draw or paint and submit your artwork to the Art in Movement exhibit! Entries are due Monday, August 10 by midnight.
Mark your calendar for these Zoom sessions:
Egyptian/Cabaret Belly Dance Theme with Kenyatta
Thursday, July 16 from noon-1pm
For session details and registration, email kn.ali@icloud.com
This will be one long sustained pose in increments of 20 minutes with 5-minute breaks. Kenyatta also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 1-hour lunch-time session.
Drawings by Katherine Rand from DC Art Model Collective sessions
Tribal Belly Dance Theme with Jalene
Monday, July 20 from 2-4pm
For session details and registration, email jalene99@gmail.com
Jalene will record additional material as movement studies in video form that artists are welcome to purchase from her directly. Jalene also has video/photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 2-hour session.
Persian Belly Dance Theme with Shadiyah
Tuesday, July 21 from 7-10pm
For session details and registration, email shadiyah@shadiyahdances.com
Shadiyah also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 3-hour session.
Belly Dance: Hands and Arms with Sheba
Wednesday, July 22 from 2-4pm
For session details and registration, email blueriverdream@gmail.com
This will be a live progressive gesture session focusing on close ups of hands and arms. Sheba will record additional material as movement studies in video form that artists are welcome to purchase from her directly. Sheba also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 2-hour session.
Saidi Belly Dance Theme with Gazelle
Saturday, July 25 from 10am-1pm
For session details and registration, email gazellesartspace@gmail.com
This will be a sustained pose session after 2 quick costumed warm up poses. Gazelle will record additional material as movement studies in video form that artists are welcome to purchase from her directly. Gazelle also has video/ photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 3-hour session.
Tribal Fusion Belly Dance Theme with Sarah
Sunday, July 26 from 2-4pm & Thursday, July 30 from 7-9pm
For session details and registration, email indigoafterall@gmail.com
Sarah also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend either of these 2-hour sessions.
Cabaret/Egyptian Dance Theme with Emily
Wednesday, July 29 from 2-4pm
For session details and registration, email ebutterfield4@gmail.com
Emily also has photo options and private sessions available for anyone who is not able to attend this 2-hour session.
Check the DCAMC Calendar for additional sessions and details

ONLINE: Board Meeting (July 2020)
2020-07-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Online

"Hello, Bright Eyes" Call for Entry Deadline
2020-07-13 00:50 - 00:59 | Online
Call for Entry ~ Open to All Area Artists
Hello, Bright Eyes
Exhibit Dates: August 7-29, 2020
Digital entry deadline extended to Sunday, July 12, 2020 by midnight
“ICU” by Tracy Wilkerson
Raise the visibility of healthy vision! Embrace your imagination and create artwork focusing on eyes, eyesight, or all the wonders the eyes have provided us throughout our years. The Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan WashingtonÆ has graciously offered artists old glasses, lenses and glasses ëarms’ to use in your artwork.
Entry Details & Form

"Quarantine Creations" opens at VCA Alexandria
2020-07-06 | VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital, 2660 Duke St, Alexandria, VA, 22314, United States
Quarantine Creations Art Exhibit at VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital
July 6 – October 24, 2020
“Flattening the Curve” by Suzanne Tillman, collage, $225, 12? x 13?
View the Artwork
The Quarantine Creations exhibit at the Veterinary Clinics of America Alexandria Animal Hospital (VCA Alexandria) features artwork based on our quarantine experiences. We all have been going through some challenging times during this COVID-19 pandemic. Our lives have changed drastically due to the global quarantine, and we have had to make many adjustments in our own unique ways. Quarantine Creations is a Del Ray Artisans’ Gallery Without Walls exhibit in partnership with VCA Alexandria.
All the artwork on display is by Del Ray Artisans members. Artists are donating 20% of the purchase price of sold pieces to Del Ray Artisans, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
The exhibit runs July 6 through October 24, 2020 at VCA Alexandria, 2660 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Because VCA Alexandria is not at complete opening status, artwork is viewable online and by appointment only (Monday-Saturday 8am-4pm). Please contact Stephanie Frederick at VCAGWW2020@gmail.com to schedule an on-site viewing appointment. Updated hours will be posted on this page as VCA Alexandria begins to let clients in the building.
For more information, please contact the curators Kelly Postula (GWW@DelRayArtisans.org) and Stephanie Frederick (VCAGWW2020@gmail.com).

ONLINE: How to Publish Your Work in Literary Journals Workshop
2020-06-29 20:00 - 22:00 | Online
Instructor: T.J. Butler
Date: Monday, June 29 from 7-9pm
Class size: 3-20 participants
(Register by Noon on June 29)

This workshop will be online through the Zoom platform. Registrants will be sent login information the day before the workshop.
Are you interested in publishing your short fiction and poetry in literary journals and magazines?
Have you considered it, but don’t know where to start? Do you wonder if your work is even good enough to submit?
You’ll learn the basics to get started: knowing when your work is ready to submit; finding and researching journals; writing cover letters; crafting your author’s bio; navigating Submittable; tracking and organizing your submissions; strategies for submitting; vocabulary to help you represent yourself as a pro; “Literary Twitter,” and much more.
Attend with a notebook and a pen. You’ll leave with the tools necessary to begin submitting your work to journals ranging from approachable to top-tier.
Register Now
About this teaching artist: T.J. Butler lives on a sailboat with her husband and dog. She writes fiction that is not all fun and games. She is a Pushcart Prize nominee and an occasional contributor to Tiny House Magazine. Her work appears or is forthcoming in Flash Fiction Online, Tahoma Literary Review, New South, Ghost City Review, Barren, Riggwelter, and others. She is working with her agent to complete a collection of short stories, “A Flame on the Ocean.” She can be found at @aGalWithNoName and TJButlerAuthor.com.

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

"Quarantine Creations" Call for Entry Deadline
2020-06-27 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Del Ray Artisans Members Only
Gallery Without Walls Call for Entry
Quarantine Creations at VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital
July 6 – October 24, 2020
Digital entries due: Saturday, June 27 by midnight
Del Ray Artisans is pleased to partner with VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital again! We all have been going through some challenging times during this COVID-19 pandemic. Our lives have changed drastically due to the global quarantine, and we have had to make many adjustments in our own unique ways. So, for our next Gallery Without Walls show, we challenge artists to express their quarantine experiences.
Must be a Del Ray Artisans member to enter (join Del Ray Artisans now); 2-dimensional works only. No entry fee; pieces previously shown are welcome.
Entry Details & Form

Artwork credit: “Flatten the Curve” by Kelly Postula
