Del Ray Artisans

First Thursday: Make art inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe 6:30-8pm (Gallery Open 12-9pm)
2025-05-01 18:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
April showers bring May Day flowers at Del Ray Artisans. Join us for a free, artful, family-friendly activity from 6:30-8:00pm on First Thursday, May 1. Artist Morgan Parr will be exploring the floral expressions of iconic American artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Make your own pretty-in-pastel picture for your home art gallery.
To celebrate this Dog Days in Del Ray First Thursday, humans and dogs are welcome to a sneak peek of the totally terrific Alexandria City High School Titan Student Exhibition. There will be treats available for your canine companions inside the gallery too!
Make art inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe activity (Photo courtesy of Morgan Parr)

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 each First Thursday for themed activities, a donation drive to support a local nonprofit, and live music. The theme and nonprofit 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 3, 2025 – Music & Dance on the Avenue
May 1, 2025 – Dog Days in Del Ray
June 5, 2025 – theme TBD (2024 theme: Jump into Summer)
July 3, 2025 – theme TBD (2024 theme: Red, White and Blue (Gallery is closed)
August 7, 2025 – theme TBD (2024 theme: Del Ray Olympics)
September 4, 2025 – theme TBD (2024 theme: Saddle Up)

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

Alexandria City High School 2025 Titan Student Art Exhibition at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2025-05-02 - 2025-05-24 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Alexandria City High School 2025 Titan Student Art Exhibition
May 2–24, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, May 2 from 7–9pm
Photo Album
Ever wished you’d seen Picasso before he became famous? Or was the one to discover Renoir? The trick is to check out the artistry all around you. The Alexandria City High School (ACHS) Titan Student Art Exhibition at Del Ray Artisans gallery shines a spotlight on our city’s flourishing young artists. Stop by to support Alexandria City High School’s best of the best.
Join us for the opening reception on Fri., May 2, 2025 between 7-9 p.m. to meet the curators: Del Ray Artisans’ Youth Programs Director (Sandra Alami), ACHS Visual Art Department teachers (Hannah Brownell, Tabitha Eller, Anna Huerta, Pamela Johnson, Victoria Krieger, Lauren Pierson, and Marisa St. Louis), and Career & Technical Education (CTE) teachers (Maria Ivanova and Taylor Welch), as well as some of the artists. Mark your calendar or set a reminder through Eventbrite at achs-2025-titan-art.eventbrite.com.
The reception will feature chamber music performances led by ACHS Performing Arts teacher Kevin Pace, including a string quartet, jazz trio, and vocal quartet. The ACHS National Art Honor Society will sell handmade items to fundraise for the ACHS Visual Art Department, and we will have student artists available for henna tattoos. Refreshments will be provided by Del Ray Artisans and McD Mateos McDonald’s.
Thank you to professional artists Bridget Anthony-Hlioui, Haven Ashley, Tara Barr, and Ted Reed for jurying the artwork award winners, who will be announced at the reception. Special shoutout to the Executive Principal of ACHS, Alexander Duncan, III, and Campus Administrator Ashley Carter Sinclair for selecting artwork award winners for the ACHS Administrator Choice Awards, who will also be announced at the reception. We would like to recognize the students Rozalia Finkelstein for assisting with the press release and Nyasha Stork and Redeate Gashaw for designing the exhibition showcard. Thank you to all of the above-mentioned and everyone who participated and contributed to the exhibition’s success featuring the work of our city’s talented students.
Don’t miss Del Ray Artisans’ creative programs during the exhibition:

First Thursday family-friendly activity and exhibit sneak peek – Thurs., May 1, 6:30-8:30 p.m. (drop-in)
Spring Art Market – Sat., May 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (drop-in, outdoors)
Del Ray Urban Sketchers at St Elmo’s in Del Ray – Sun., May 11, 1-3pm (drop-in)
Introduction to Intuitive Collage Workshop – Sat., May 17, 10 a.m.-noon (register in advance)
STEAM-tastic: Have a Voice – Poster for the Planet – Sun., May 18, 9-10:30 a.m. (participants ages 6-10 years old) and 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (participants ages 11-17 years old)
Partners in Art Evening – Wed., May 21, 7-9 p.m. (RSVP)

Made possible with support from the City of Alexandria
The Alexandria City High School 2025 Titan Student Art Exhibition runs May 2-24, 2025 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are First Thursday (April-Sept.) noon-9 p.m., Thurs. noon-6 p.m., Fri. noon-9 p.m., Sat. noon-6 p.m., and Sun. noon-6 p.m. (closed on May 25).
The student exhibition is made possible with support from the City of Alexandria through the FY25 Arts Program Grant and a generous donation from Genesis Inspiration Foundation. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. For more information, contact the Director of Youth Programs Sandra Alami at youth@delrayartisans.org and Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) serves more than 16,300 students who hail from more than 118 countries and speak 127 languages. ACPS has 18 schools, including two middle schools, two K-8 schools, one pre-K school and the internationally recognized Alexandria City High School. ACPS is committed to putting racial equity at the heart of all decisions and ensuring that each and every student succeeds. Visit www.acps.k12.va.us.
Del Ray Artisans, founded in 1992, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community. Del Ray Artisans (DRA) appreciates the continued support from the City of Alexandria, Alexandria Commission for the Arts, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and National Endowment for the Arts. DRA is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Alexandria City High School 2025 Titan Student Art Exhibition Opening Reception
2025-05-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Alexandria City High School 2025 Titan Student Art Exhibition
May 2–24, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, May 2 from 7–9pm
Ever wished you’d seen Picasso before he became famous? Or was the one to discover Renoir? The trick is to check out the artistry all around you. The Alexandria City High School (ACHS) Titan Student Art Exhibition at Del Ray Artisans gallery shines a spotlight on our city’s flourishing young artists. Stop by to support Alexandria City High School’s best of the best.
Join us for the opening reception on Fri., May 2, 2025 between 7-9 p.m. to meet the curators: Del Ray Artisans’ Youth Programs Director (Sandra Alami), ACHS Visual Art Department teachers (Hannah Brownell, Tabitha Eller, Anna Huerta, Pamela Johnson, Victoria Krieger, Lauren Pierson, and Marisa St. Louis), and Career & Technical Education (CTE) teachers (Maria Ivanova and Taylor Welch), as well as some of the artists. Mark your calendar or set a reminder through Eventbrite at achs-2025-titan-art.eventbrite.com.
The reception will feature chamber music performances led by ACHS Performing Arts teacher Kevin Pace, including a string quartet, jazz trio, and vocal quartet. The ACHS National Art Honor Society will sell handmade items to fundraise for the ACHS Visual Art Department, and we will have student artists available for henna tattoos. Refreshments will be provided by Del Ray Artisans and McD Mateos McDonald’s.
Thank you to professional artists Bridget Anthony-Hlioui, Haven Ashley, Tara Barr, and Ted Reed for jurying the artwork award winners, who will be announced at the reception. Special shoutout to the Executive Principal of ACHS, Alexander Duncan, III, and Campus Administrator Ashley Carter Sinclair for selecting artwork award winners for the ACHS Administrator Choice Awards, who will also be announced at the reception. We would like to recognize the students Rozalia Finkelstein for assisting with the press release and Nyasha Stork and Redeate Gashaw for designing the exhibition showcard. Thank you to all of the above-mentioned and everyone who participated and contributed to the exhibition’s success featuring the work of our city’s talented students.
Don’t miss Del Ray Artisans’ creative programs during the exhibition:

First Thursday family-friendly activity and exhibit sneak peek – Thurs., May 1, 6:30-8:30 p.m. (drop-in)
Spring Art Market – Sat., May 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (drop-in, outdoors)
Del Ray Urban Sketchers at St Elmo’s in Del Ray – Sun., May 11, 1-3pm (drop-in)
Introduction to Intuitive Collage Workshop – Sat., May 17, 10 a.m.-noon (register in advance)
STEAM-tastic: Have a Voice – Poster for the Planet – Sun., May 18, 9-10:30 a.m. (participants ages 6-10 years old) and 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (participants ages 11-17 years old)
Partners in Art Evening – Wed., May 21, 7-9 p.m. (RSVP)

Made possible with support from the City of Alexandria
The Alexandria City High School 2025 Titan Student Art Exhibition runs May 2-24, 2025 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are First Thursday (April-Sept.) noon-9 p.m., Thurs. noon-6 p.m., Fri. noon-9 p.m., Sat. noon-6 p.m., and Sun. noon-6 p.m. (closed on May 25).
The student exhibition is made possible with support from the City of Alexandria through the FY25 Arts Program Grant and a generous donation from Genesis Inspiration Foundation. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. For more information, contact the Director of Youth Programs Sandra Alami at youth@delrayartisans.org and Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) serves more than 16,300 students who hail from more than 118 countries and speak 127 languages. ACPS has 18 schools, including two middle schools, two K-8 schools, one pre-K school and the internationally recognized Alexandria City High School. ACPS is committed to putting racial equity at the heart of all decisions and ensuring that each and every student succeeds. Visit www.acps.k12.va.us.
Del Ray Artisans, founded in 1992, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community. Del Ray Artisans (DRA) appreciates the continued support from the City of Alexandria, Alexandria Commission for the Arts, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and National Endowment for the Arts. DRA is a 501(c)(3) organization.

STEAM-tastic: Analogous Watercolor Leaves (Ages 6-12)
2025-05-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor Morgan Parr
Instructor: Morgan Parr
Date/Time: Saturday, May 3, 10am-12pm
Cost: $25/child
Class size: 3-15 participants
(Register in advance; walk-ins allowed, space permitting.)
Georgia O’Keeffe’s style of large-scale flowers, trees, and leaves that used distortion were inspired by her summer vacations to New Mexico. These beautifully colored leaves are sure to brighten up your home. Join us while we practice drawing organic shapes to create curvy oak leaves while learning about Color Theory and the amazing pioneer of modern art: Georgia O’Keeffe. All the supplies are provided.
This workshop is for participants ages 6-12 years old. 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.

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

Partners in Art (FULL)
2025-05-05 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

Figure Drawing – Gesture and Short Poses Session
2025-05-06 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-05-20 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Drop-in and practice figure drawing on two select Tuesday* evenings each month. Bring your supplies and join us at the gallery to draw or paint our nude model.
*Most sessions are on Tuesday evenings, but in 2025 there will be a session on Thursday, November 13 and a few costumed sessions on Thursday evenings in October.
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. 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 Figure Drawing Sessions on Instagram! Tag #dralifedraw or @dralifedraw for your work to be featured.
Register Now | View Upcoming Sessions

Artwork credit: “To The Beat” by Katherine Rand

Spring Art Market 2025
2025-05-10 10:00 - 16:00 | Mount Vernon Recreation Center Athletic Fields, 2701 Commonwealth Ave, Alexandria, 22301, United States
Photo Album
Del Ray Artisans’ Spring Art Market is on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 10am-4pm in the Mount Vernon Recreation Center fields adjoining Del Ray Artisans gallery (2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA).
This market that gives you the chance to purchase original handcrafted artwork from talented local artists in a wide range of media including ceramics, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, paper, photography, and more.
The event is held rain or shine, FREE to browse, and open to the public. Drop in anytime during the event to meet the artists and enjoy the outdoor market.
The featured artists are:

John Allen, Permian Designs
Kristen Anderson, Boot Sole Pottery
Bhavani Arabandi, Samhara Ceramics
Victoria Barnes Photography
Russ Billen
DeVante Capers Artism Gallery
Ed Colahan Pottery
Evelyn Cook
Shelley Degges, Stuff by Shelley
Patty Figliola, Aisling MagickArt
Nicole Gauvin, made by Knerq
Walter Gordon
Lesley Hall-Runner, Ruthless Art
Ellen Hamilton, Yellow Dot Shop
B A Hlioui Art
Haddy K Art and Design
Christine Lederman, Bead Therapy
Horrible Darlings by Ginny Loving
Diana Manchak, designsinclay
Liz Martinez
Isabel Montenegro, Bel’s Creations
Patti North, All Fired Up!
Miyoung Obenschain
Susan Pawlukiewicz, Carvings in Lucite
Mayre Perez, Handmade Goods by Mayre
Mary Pike, Recycled Bag Lady
Rainbow-Wolf Photos
Robin Reid, Moxie & Magic
Tiara Safic-Martin
Ann Cameron Siegal, The Momentary Pause
Jennifer Van Pernis
Joyce Wagner, Reinvented Elegance
Tamara Wilkerson, WiRealm by Tamara
Tracy Wilkerson, Recycled Works
Denise Williams, D’BohoMama
Christina Wise, Dina’s Doodles

Plus step inside Del Ray Artisans gallery to see the Alexandria City High School 2025 Titan Student Art Exhibition (May 2–24, 2025). Del Ray Artisans, founded in 1992, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.

Del Ray Urban Sketchers 2025
2025-05-11 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-06-08 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.)
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

Photo courtesy of Joan Bickelhaupt

RESCHEDULED: Playing with Resin Workshop
2025-05-11 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop has been rescheduled to Sunday, August 10th.
Instructor: Tracy Wilkerson, recycledworks@yahoo.com
Date/Time: Sunday, May 11, 6-9pm
Cost: $40 Del Ray Artisans member / $50 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 6-12 participants
(Register by May 8)
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).

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

“Sing Me a Sea Shanty” Call for Entry Deadline
2025-05-11 23:59 | Online
Call for Entry ~ Open to area artists
Sing Me a Sea Shanty
Exhibit Dates: May 30 – June 29, 2025
Digital entry deadline: Sunday, May 11, 2025 by midnight
“Boats & Ropes – Old Port, Portland Maine” by Tiara Safic-Martin
The sea is awe-inspiring and man’s relationship with it has been tumultuous. For centuries the sea has inspired stories, lore, myth, legends, and songs. Explore all things nautical.
The exhibit is open to all area artists. Del Ray Artisans members pay a discounted entry fee.
Entry Details & Form

Board of Directors Meeting (ONLINE)
2025-05-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Online
This Board meeting will an online meeting through Zoom.
Active members are welcome to attend any Board meeting. If you wish to address the Board or bring something up to the Board during one of these meetings, contact Margaret Slipek at Secretary@DelRayArtisans.org at least four days in advance of the meeting to be included on the agenda and receive the Zoom session link.

“Energy of the Season” GWW Call for Entry Deadline
2025-05-14 23:59 | Online
Del Ray Artisans Members Only
Gallery Without Walls Call for Entry
Energy of the Season at VCA Old Town Animal Hospital
June 9, 2025 – May 30, 2026
Entry deadline: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 by midnight
“Bubble Gum Bloom” by Stephanie Darlene Greenwald
Seeking 2D artwork that exemplifies the spirit, passion, exuberance, and pizzazz of something from your favorite season or your favorite season itself.
NOTE: The Energy of the Season art exhibit is at VCA Old Town (not VCA Alexandria). Due to new guidelines for a fear-free space, we cannot accept artwork that has realistic depictions of dogs, cats, and/or birds. Stylized or abstract pieces with these subjects are allowed.
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

Volunteer in the Gardens
2025-05-17 09:00 - 11:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Give some TLC to Del Ray Artisans’ gardens! Join the Gardens Committee to spruce up the landscaping around the gallery.
Bring gloves, knee pads (if desired), and laughter. Even if you don’t know what a weed is, we can teach you. Volunteer for 1 hour or the whole 2.5 hours. If you have any questions, please email Kurt at Gardens@DelRayArtisans.org.
MEMBERS: This task counts towards your annual membership volunteer hours (record your hours).
NON-MEMBERS: You are welcome to come help and learn too.
Save the Dates: During the season (March-October), the committee typically meets the third Saturday of the month from 9am-11am. In June, July, and August, we’ll meet an hour earlier (8am-10am) to avoid the heat. The June session will be a week earlier on Saturday, June 14th; and the September session has been rescheduled to Sunday, September 21st to avoid conflict with the HalloWEIRD art market. Thank you for your volunteer time!

NOTE: All plantings and transplantings must be approved by the Garden Committee. The Garden Committee approval is important to make sure the plants that get chosen are great for nature, located properly for the right amount of sun or shade, don’t conflict with other plants or facility needs, and fit into the overall garden plan with maintenance in mind.

CANCELED: STEAM-tastic: Have a Voice - Poster for the Planet! (Ages 6-10)
2025-05-18 09:00 - 10:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor Ruth Furpahs
Instructor: Ruth Furpahs
Date/Time: Sunday, May 18, 9-10:30am
Cost: $20/child
Class size: 1-15 participants
(Register by May 14)
Create a poster with a Punch! To honor the earth, create a poster emphasizing an environmental problem and/or solution. These may be from personal experience or from any background knowledge you may have. Also the instructor will share some of the leading environmental issues today to help with ideas. Before this workshop, you can research topics or imagery (on a non-copyrighted site such as Unsplash).
Let’s hear your voice – create a poster with a positive solution to an environmental issue of today! Using colored soft pastels, markers, and other drawing materials you will create a poster that you can display in your home or post online for family and friends to see.
Participants will learn how to focus on craftsmanship, understand the use of color to create a poster and more about the principles and elements of art and design.
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.

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.

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

CANCELED: STEAM-tastic: Have a Voice - Poster for the Planet! (Ages 11-17)
2025-05-18 11:00 - 12:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor Ruth Furpahs
Instructor: Ruth Furpahs
Date/Time: Sunday, May 18, 11am-12:30pm
Cost: $20/child
Class size: 1-15 participants
(Register by May 14)
Create a poster with a Punch! To honor the earth, create a poster emphasizing an environmental problem and/or solution. These may be from personal experience or from any background knowledge you may have. Also the instructor will share some of the leading environmental issues today to help with ideas. Before this workshop, you can research topics or imagery (on a non-copyrighted site such as Unsplash).
Let’s hear your voice – create a poster with a positive solution to an environmental issue of today! Using colored soft pastels, markers, and other drawing materials you will create a poster that you can display in your home or post online for family and friends to see.
Participants will learn how to focus on craftsmanship, understand the use of color to create a poster and more about the principles and elements of art and design.
The hands-on activity is for participants’ ages 11-17. Family members are welcome to attend, listen, and learn. Please contact the Youth Programs Director at youth@delrayartisans.org with any questions.

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.

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

Spring Member Meeting & Benefit Program: Prepping Your Artwork for Success
2025-05-18 16:00 - 18:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
On Sunday, May 18 starting at 4pm, join your fellow Del Ray Artisans members for the spring member meeting and this FREE member benefit program to find out how you can prepare to show your work successfully at Del Ray Artisans and beyond.
Many art galleries will refuse to accept artwork that is poorly wired, incorrectly framed, or otherwise not finished professionally. Why risk losing your entry fee for something that is so easily within your control? Come to this program to learn tips and tricks for successful finishing! In addition, you’ll learn how to prep files ahead of time, including creating and maintaining your artist bio, building an inventory database of all your pieces, and keeping a photo library. When you have everything properly set up, you can respond to calls for entry whenever they pop up, even if the deadline is tomorrow (or today)!
The event will begin with a brief meeting and include light refreshments. If you would like to contribute refreshments (thank you!), please reach out to the Membership Director, Kara Macek, at Membership@DelRayArtisans.org.
We look forward to seeing you at the gallery!

Partners in Art Evening (RSVP in Advance)
2025-05-21 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.
View Upcoming Meetings

Closed to the Public
2025-05-25 - 2025-05-28 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This time is reserved for the curator to arrange the upcoming exhibit.

Closed to the Public Today; Artist Appointments 3-6pm
2025-05-25 15:00 - 18:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The gallery is closed to the public today while the exhibit is taken down. This time (3pm-6pm) is reserved for Del Ray Artisans artists to drop off accepted artwork for the incoming exhibit. Contact the curators with any questions (contact info in the call for entry).
Unsold Artwork Pick Up
The outgoing exhibit is the Alexandria City High School 2025 Titan Student Art Exhibition. ACHS teachers will move unsold artwork to the high school before 3pm today and will coordinate pick up with the students during the week.

Accepted Artwork Drop Off
Time for artists to drop off their accepted artwork entries for the upcoming exhibit, Sing Me a Sea Shanty. Artwork must be ready to hang (with screw eyes and wire) or ready for display (with mounting and/or a display stand if necessary). Review the standard artwork presentation guidelines and the call for entry for show specific information.

Volunteer
All artists participating in the exhibit are required to volunteer a minimum of 3 hours towards managing the show. Those hours can be filled by gallery hosting during the month of exhibit, assisting with show hanging or take down, and volunteering to help with other show-specific activities as needed by the curators. Any hours in excess of 3 hours will count towards the membership requirement. DRA members are reminded to report their volunteer hours monthly.

Sing Me a Sea Shanty at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2025-05-30 - 2025-06-29 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Sing Me a Sea Shanty Art Exhibit
May 30 – June 29, 2025
Reception: Friday, June 6 from 7–9pm
“Boats & Ropes – Old Port, Portland Maine” by Tiara Safic-Martin
Photo Album
Come explore a treasure trove of artwork capturing the beauty of the ocean, the maritime mind-set, and the ever-lasting nautical spirit during the Sing Me a Sea Shanty art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery. From lighthouses and stormy seas, to portside pubs and fishing lures, get lost in a pirate’s plunder of creativity. Who knows, you might even come upon a sea monster or two!
Join us for the exhibit reception on Friday, June 6 between 7-9pm to meet curators Tiara Safic-Martin and TJ Feeley and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
The Sing Me a Sea Shanty art exhibit runs from May 30 – June 29, 2025 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (hours differ in July).
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact curators Tiara Safic-Martin at tsmartin27@outlook.com and TJ Feeley at tjfeeley@gmail.com or Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

Tumbling Through the Seasons at VCA Old Town (10/28/2024 – 5/31/2025)
2025-05-31 | VCA Old Town Animal Hospital, 425 N Henry Street, Alexandria, 22314, United States
Tumbling Through the Seasons Art Exhibit at VCA Old Town Animal Hospital
October 28, 2024 – May 31, 2025
Photo Album | Online Store
The Tumbling Through the Seasons exhibit features 2D artwork by Del Ray Artisans members at VCA Old Town Animal Hospital. This exhibit features artwork celebrating the seasons, from April Showers Bring May Flowers to a Winter Wonderland and everything in between.
VCA Old Town Animal Hospital is located at 425 N Henry Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. There is a parking lot behind VCA Old Town accessible from Princess Street. The animal hospital is open Monday-Friday 7:30am-7pm, Saturday 8am-3pm.
Come see the exhibit October 28, 2024 through May 31, 2025 in the lobby and hallway. Due to client needs, some areas may not be available for immediate viewing. Visitors must let the front desk know they are there to view the art exhibit.
The exhibit is a Del Ray Artisans’ Gallery Without Walls exhibit in partnership with VCA Old Town. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, please contact the curators Liz Martinez (GWW@DelRayArtisans.org) and Carrie Rudman (Carrie.Rudman@VCA.com).
Photo Album | Online Store

Artwork credit: “Persephone” by Morgan Parr

Nature Journaling Club 2025
2025-05-31 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!
Del Ray Artisans’ Nature Journaling Club meets at 10am in front of Del Ray Artisans on the final Saturday morning of the month (except not in July, November, and December).
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

Taste of Del Ray VIP Reception
2025-06-01 11:30 - 13:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Taste of Del Ray is one of Virginia Living Magazine‘s top food festivals in the state. Visit the Del Ray Business Association website for details on the 16th annual Taste of Del Ray.
The event will take place on Sunday, June 1 from 1-3pm at the Mount Vernon Recreation Center fields next to the gallery. Purchase tickets in advance on Eventbrite. Only 500 general admission and 100 VIP tickets will be sold.
VIP benefits include a wine tasting at Del Ray Artisans gallery from 11:30am-1pm and early admission to the food festival starting at 12pm. Note: The wine tasting is only for individuals 21 and older (IDs will be checked) who have Taste of Del Ray VIP tickets.
Get Tickets

Del Ray Artisans is a member of the Del Ray Business Association. The gallery is open to the public until 6pm on Sunday, June 1st.

Reserved for Alexandria Film Festival's Planning Committee
2025-06-02 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This date/time is reserved for the Alexandria Film Festival’s Planning Committee.
The Alexandria Film Festival is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Alexandria, Virginia.

Figure Drawing – Gesture and Short Poses Session
2025-06-03 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Drop-in and practice figure drawing on two select Tuesday* evenings each month. Bring your supplies and join us at the gallery to draw or paint our nude model.
*Most sessions are on Tuesday evenings, but in 2025 there will be a session on Thursday, November 13 and a few costumed sessions on Thursday evenings in October.
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 $10 for Del Ray Artisans members and $15 for non-members. 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 Figure Drawing Sessions on Instagram! Tag #dralifedraw or @dralifedraw for your work to be featured.
Register Now | View Upcoming Sessions

Artwork credit: Detail of “To The Beat” by Katherine Rand

First Thursday: Create Pop Art featuring Washington Sports Teams 6:30-8pm (Gallery Open 12-9pm)
2025-06-05 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 the first Thursday of the month from April through September for our family-friendly activity. The activity is free of charge and all ages are welcome. Plus enjoy the current art exhibit! Del Ray Artisans gallery is open 12-9pm on First Thursdays from April through September.
On the June 5th “Rep Your Team” First Thursday, come to Del Ray Artisans to create pop art featuring Washington sports teams. Choose a template featuring the team logos for the Capitals, Commanders, DC United, Mystics, Nationals, Spirit, or Wizards—or draw your own!
The activity is inspired by renowned pop art artist Andy Warhol, including his piece “The Great One” featuring Wayne Gretzky. Select the Washington Capitals template to honor our own “Great” 8, Alex Ovechkin, and celebrate his recent triumph of surpassing Gretzky as the all-time highest goal scoring player in the NHL.
Drop-in; all ages and skill levels welcome.

Create your own Washington Capitals Pop Art on First Thursday (June 5, 2025)
“The Great One” (Wayne Gretzky) by Andy Warhol
“The Cubist Captain” (Alex Ovechkin) by Kelly MacConomy

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 each First Thursday for themed activities, a donation drive to support a local nonprofit, and live music. The theme and nonprofit 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 3, 2025 – Music & Dance on the Avenue
May 1, 2025 – Dog Days in Del Ray
June 5, 2025 – Rep Your Team
July 3, 2025 – Red, White, And Bloom
August 7, 2025 – Surf’s Up
September 4, 2025 – Antique Appraisals on the Avenue

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

"Sing Me a Sea Shanty" Art Exhibit Reception
2025-06-06 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Sing Me a Sea Shanty Art Exhibit
May 30 – June 29, 2025
Reception: Friday, June 6 from 7–9pm
“Boats & Ropes – Old Port, Portland Maine” by Tiara Safic-Martin
Come explore a treasure trove of artwork capturing the beauty of the ocean, the maritime mind-set, and the ever-lasting nautical spirit during the Sing Me a Sea Shanty art exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery. From lighthouses and stormy seas, to portside pubs and fishing lures, get lost in a pirate’s plunder of creativity. Who knows, you might even come upon a sea monster or two!
Join us for the exhibit reception on Friday, June 6 between 7-9pm to meet curators Tiara Safic-Martin and TJ Feeley and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
The Sing Me a Sea Shanty art exhibit runs from May 30 – June 29, 2025 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (hours differ in July).
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Del Ray Artisans, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.
For more information, contact curators Tiara Safic-Martin at tsmartin27@outlook.com and TJ Feeley at tjfeeley@gmail.com or Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

RESCHEDULED to 8/2: Ceramic Turtle Workshop (Adults & Youth ages 13+)
2025-06-07 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshops has been rescheduled to August 2nd.
Instructor: Diana Manchak
Date/Time: Saturday, June 7, 6-9pm
Cost: $40 Del Ray Artisans member / $50 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 8-12 participants
(Register by midnight on June 4)
Design and create a one-of-a-kind keepsake turtle. Students will use stoneware clay to hand-build a turtle by forming shapes from soft clay in different patterns and learn how to make limbs and head to complete their turtle. We will use a variety of basic clay techniques that are the foundation for all clay work.
Students will select a glaze color or two and the instructor will dry and fire each turtle and return the finished pieces for pick up at the gallery. Students will be notified once the finished pieces are back at the gallery.
Adults and participants ages 13+ years old are welcome. Please wear clothes appropriate for art projects or bring a smock.

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