Del Ray Artisans

Fun With One at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-03-03 - 2023-04-01 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Fun With One Art Exhibit
March 3–April 1, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, March 3, 7–9pm
The Fun With One art exhibit showcases 2D and 3D monochromatic artwork by Del Ray Artisans members—revealing a fascinating variety even using only one color. Join us for the opening reception on Friday, March 3 between 7-9pm to meet the curators and artists. Come to the reception dressed all in one color for fun and a chance to win a free 30th Anniversary T-shirt. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
The reception is also your last chance to purchase raffle tickets to win two beautiful outdoor statues of the Chinese Buddhist Deities of Compassion (Guan Yin) and Longevity (Shou Lao). The raffle benefits Del Ray Artisans 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the winner will be drawn during the reception.
The artists awards are juried by Robin Croft, an artist from Manassas, VA whose works include painting and sculpture. Many of his sculptures are created from found materials in nature, created to be left outdoors, and not glued or nailed together in any way so the natural materials can then be redistributed by the natural elements of wind and sea water. He has taught a variety of courses in drawing, painting, and collage at the Lorton Workhouse Art Center. View Robin’s art on Instagram @shipwreckartist.
In the spirit of the color theme, curator Rusty Lynn is facilitating Del Ray Artisans’ Creative Book Club on Saturday, February 11 from 10am-12pm with a discussion of “The Secret Lives of Color” by Kassia St. Clair. This book is organized around the color groups and full of very interesting research about all the colors imaginable. Book club is a drop-in program. For more details on book club and all upcoming programs, visit delrayartisans.org/programs.
The Fun With One exhibit runs March 3–April 1, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are First Thursday (Apr-Sept) 12-9pm, Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays and Sundays 12-6pm. Typically the gallery is closed the last Sunday of the month, but the gallery will be open on Sunday, March 26 and closed on Sunday, April 2, 2023.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. 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 the curators Rusty Lynn at rustylynn@earthlink.net and Kelly Postula at creativekmp20@gmail.com.

Artwork credit: Detail of “Mt Gamboge” by Rusty Lynn

“Fun With One” Exhibit Opening Reception
2023-03-03 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States

Beyond the Block: Experimenting With Nontraditional Printmaking Workshop
2023-03-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Meredith D’Amore
Date: Saturday, March 4 from 10am-12pm
Cost: $15 Del Ray Artisans member / $25 non-member, plus $5 supply fee & bring required supplies
Class size: 3-10 participants
(Register in advance preferred)
Explore ways to make prints without purchasing tons of supplies. Use reclaimed materials to divert waste from landfills while creating prints that can stand alone or be incorporated into artwork from other disciplines.
Artists from all disciplines and experience levels are invited to explore ways to use found objects and upcycled materials to create nontraditional prints. Instructor Meredith D’Amore will demonstrate plate-making techniques with recycled packaging materials as well as how to ink plates to achieve different results without the need for a press. Students will create their own collagraphs and discuss ways to reduce the ecological footprint of our artmaking as we explore ways to make prints with what we already have.
Students are asked to pay a $5 supply fee for shared materials used in the workshop. Students must also bring their own supplies listed in the 2023 Beyond the Block Supply List (open document) and below.
Students must bring the following required supplies:

Xacto knife (with a sharp/new blade)
Cutting surface (back of your sketchbook, small cutting mat, or cutting board)
Scissors
Glue stick
Ruler/straight edge (metal works best)
Pencil and pen for sketching ideas
Sketchbook or paper for sketching ideas
Brayer
Speedball Water Soluble Block Printing Ink Starter Set – 6 bold colors with 1.25 tubes. If you don’t want the full starter set, at least purchase tubes of two colors. You may purchase inks from other brands, but make sure the inks are water soluble.
Wooden spoon or large metal spoon for burnishing prints
Printmaking paper (does not have to be expensive) – Suggested: Strathmore 333-11 300 Series Printmaking, Lightweight, 11 x 14 inches, 30 sheets; also recommended: Mulberry Paper
Stack of newspapers/magazine/phone book for scrap paper
1-2 Large zip-lock baggies (gallon size)

Optional Supplies:

Smock or apron (Water soluble ink should wash off clothing, but may not from certain fabrics.)
Scraps of textured paper, fabrics, aluminum foil, natural objects like textured leaves or feathers, tiny food boxes like raisin boxes, clean and dry food packaging like styrofoam takeout containers or flat clear plastic panels from clamshell containers.

Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Register Now

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

The Artist's Way 6-Week Zoom Class
2023-03-05 14:00 - 16:00 | Online
Instructor: Sharon J. Burton
Date/Time: Sundays from 2-4pm, March 5-April 16, 2023 (skip April 9)
Cost: $250 Del Ray Artisans member / $300 Non-member
Supplies: Students should purchase their own copy of the book
Class size: 4-12 participants
(Register by midnight on March 1)
The Artist’s Way, written by the brilliant Julia Cameron, is designed to help kickstart a creative life. It’s a wonderful course for aspiring writers, but also for dancers, cooks, lawyers, teachers, computer programmers, illustrators, parents, welders and anyone else looking to live a more well-rounded life.
Over the course of six weeks, we will be guided step by step through Cameron’s creative process. The book is divided into 12 chapters. Each week we’ll read two chapters to work through the exercises on our own, then meet the following Sunday for group discussion. These group meetings are powerful and healing…helping to shed our fears and blocks to our creativity and creative practice.
You will learn the power of two tools for creativity:

The daily Morning Pages – Three stream of consciousness written journal pages that empty your head and heart of everything on your mind before starting the day.
The weekly Artist’s Date – A once-weekly solo expedition to do something that enchants or interests you.

What you can expect from our 6 weeks together:

Learn to recognize, nurture and protect your inner artist.
Clarify your heart’s creative dreams, as we arrive at clarity, we create change.
Gain freedom from the constant demand for more validity outside ourselves and examine the idea that money concerns are the ultimate creative block.
Art is not about thinking something up. It’s the opposite: it’s about getting something down. Instead of reaching for inventions, we learn to listen.
Blocked artists are not lazy, they’re blocked. Procrastination is not laziness, it’s fear. The need to be a great artist makes it hard to be an artist at all. This week, you will learn tools that involve taking creative risks, and these small risks teach you the courage that it takes to create.
As an artist, self-respect comes from doing the work. Artists do not need to be rich, only richly supported. We kill parts of ourselves when we fail to nurture the artist within.

The course will be held online via Zoom on Sundays from 2-4pm, starting March 5 through April 16, 2023. (April 9th skipped due to Easter.) Participants will need to purchase their own copy of The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron.
Register Now

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

Partners in Art (FULL)
2023-03-06 14:00 - 16:00, 2023-04-10 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.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
View Upcoming Meetings

Life Drawing Session - Gesture and Short Pose
2023-03-07 19:00 - 21:00, 2023-04-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Drop-in and practice life drawing on one select Tuesday evening 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.
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, please contact Erica Hughes at Programs@DelRayArtisans.org.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Register Now | View Upcoming Sessions

Artwork credit: “To The Beat” by Katherine Rand

Del Ray Urban Sketchers
2023-03-12 13:00 - 15:00, 2023-04-09 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 each month* at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray. 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
*NOTE: Del Ray Urban Sketchers does not meet in July, August, and December.

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

ONLINE: Board Meeting
2023-03-14 19:00 - 21:00, 2023-04-11 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 Kathryn Brown at Secretary@DelRayArtisans.org at least in four days advance of the meeting to be included on the agenda and receive the Zoom session link.

“A Tale of Two Studios” Call for Entry Deadline
2023-03-15 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Call for Entry ~ Open to Del Ray Artisans Members & Art Enables Artists
A Tale of Two Studios
Exhibit Dates: April 7–29, 2023
Digital entry deadline extended to Wednesday, March 15, 2023 by midnight
Del Ray Artisans members are invited to submit up to three (3) art pieces that best present their personal artistic style, medium, or subject matter. If members wish to create new 2D and 3D work(s) around the theme of ‘disability,’ ‘outsider,’ ‘progressive studios’ they are encouraged to do so. To learn more about the value of outsider art, read this blog article.
This call for entry is only open to Del Ray Artisans members and Art Enables artists. If you are not a member, you may join Del Ray Artisans and then enter.
Entry Details & Form

Artwork credit: “The Teleportal from Art Enables to Del Ray Artisans” by Shawn Payne, Art Enables

Post-Printing Party Workshop
2023-03-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructors: Ellen Rosenthal, Kitty Russell, Eileen O’Brien, Meredith D’Amore
Date: Saturday, March 18 from 10am-12pm
Cost: $5 Del Ray Artisans member / $10 non-member, plus $5 supply fee & bring scissors and prints
Class size: 5-14 participants
(Register by noon on March 17)
Got Prints? Maybe you’ve got some extra prints from your printmaking experiences lying around? Wondering what to do with them? During the Post-Printing Party Workshop, we will explore ways to give new life to those extra prints: mixed media, collage, paper weaving, foldables, and more! Each participant needs to bring at least one print (preferably more), a pair of scissors and, if possible, pieces or scraps of decorative paper.
This will be a fun and a creative time for all of us. In addition, an optional Print Exchange will take place: leave a print in the basket as you arrive and take a new one home at the end.
Where to exhibit your new creation(s)? Submit your artwork to the Prints in May @ DRA exhibit at Del Ray Artisans! The entry deadline is April 10, and the Call for Entry will be posted at DelRayArtisans.org/cfe when available.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Register Now

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

Partners in Art Evening
2023-03-21 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, but 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

Spring Art Market Applications Due
2023-03-26 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Call for Artists
Del Ray Artisans’ Spring Art Market
Application deadline: Sunday, March 26, 2023 by midnight
Join Del Ray Artisans in its tradition of outdoor art markets and sell your original handmade artwork to the local community. This is an outdoor, family-friendly, rain-or-shine event in Colasanto Park, adjoining Del Ray Artisans gallery, on Saturday, May 13, 2023 from 10am to 4pm.
Details and Application

Gallery Closed 3/27-3/30
2023-03-27 - 2023-03-30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The gallery will be closed for upgrades to the bathrooms from Monday, March 27 through Thursday, March 30.
Access to the bathroom during gallery hours on Friday, March 31 may also be impacted.

"Fun With One" Artwork Pick Up
2023-04-02 12:00 - 15:00 | 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, Fun With One.

Questions? Contact the curators: Rusty Lynn at rustylynn@earthlink.net and Kelly Postula at creativekmp20@gmail.com.

Artwork credit: Detail of “Mt Gamboge” by Rusty Lynn

"A Tale of Two Studios" Artwork Drop Off
2023-04-02 15:00 - 18:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Time for artists to drop off their accepted artwork entries for the upcoming exhibit, A Tale of Two Studios. Artwork drop off is Sunday, April 2 from 3-6pm.
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.
Questions? Contact the curator Amy Kitchin Hower at akitchin@art-enables.org.

Artwork credit: “The Teleportal from Art Enables to Del Ray Artisans” by Shawn Payne, Art Enables

First Thursday Postponed Until April 13 (Gallery Open 12-6pm)
2023-04-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the weather, First Thursday: A Cherry Blossom Celebration will be celebrated on Thursday, April 13 starting at 6pm. The gallery will close at 6pm on April 6, but be open late (until 9pm) on April 13.

Join us at Del Ray Artisans on Thursday, April 13 from 6-8pm for our outdoor activity creating Cherry Blossom Flowers!
Plus get a sneak peek of the A Tale of Two Studios art exhibit inside the gallery! Del Ray Artisans gallery is open 12-9pm on First Thursdays from April through September.

For the first First Thursday of 2023, the Del Ray Business Association presents First Thursday: A Cherry Blossom Celebration. Join the Del Ray community for live music by Mars Rodeo, themed activities, plus the Cherry Blossom Challenge scavenger hunt (March 30-April 15) featuring cherry blossom-inspired art by local artists. Participants are encouraged to bring individually-wrapped children’s snacks and juice boxes for the Dunbar Alexandria-Olympic Boys & Girls Club. Donations will be collected at the Pat Miller Neighborhood Square at the intersection of Mount Vernon and Oxford Avenues.

Every year from April through September Del Ray celebrates First Thursday, a Del Ray community event along Mount Vernon Avenue from 6pm until dusk on the first Thursday of the month. Join us for these neighborhood themes:

April 13, 2023 (rescheduled from April 6) – A Cherry Blossom Celebration
May is typically Dog Days in Del Ray
June is typically Unmask Your Superhero
July is typically Red, White, and Blue
August is typically Aloha Thursday
September is typically Show Your Spirit

A Tale of Two Studios at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-04-07 - 2023-04-29 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Artwork credit: “The Teleportal from Art Enables to Del Ray Artisans” by Shawn Payne, Art Enables
A Tale of Two Studios Art Exhibit
April 7–29, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, April 7 from 7–9pm
Photo Album
Del Ray Artisans partners with DC Gallery and Studio Art Enables to showcase the inspiring and diverse art of these two local community organizations and to forge creative exchange through artist talks, workshops, and tours. The A Tale of Two Studios art exhibit (curated by Amy Kitchin and co-juried by Art Enables artist Toni Lane and program manager Aimee Wanner) features favorite works by Del Ray Artisans members and Art Enables resident artists. Both groups are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, April 7 between 7-9pm at Del Ray Artisans gallery at 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia. During the opening reception, Delegate Elizabeth Bennett-Parker (VA-45) will present Del Ray Artisans with Commending House Resolution 797 from the Virginia House of Delegates. The resolution highlights the impact Del Ray Artisans has had promoting the arts and arts education in Alexandria while helping local artists grow and thrive for the past three decades. Please join us for this special presentation. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
In conjunction with the A Tale of Two Studios exhibit, these events will be hosted at Art Enables at 2204 Rhode Island Avenue, NE, Washington, DC:

Saturday, April 8, 11am-3pm | Monotype Printing Workshop at Art Enables – DRA member and artist Eileen M. O’Brien will lead the 2nd Saturday Workshop. Event is free and open to the public. Register to reserve your seat.
Saturday, April 22, 2-5pm | Wine & Cheese Reception at Art Enables – Art Enables invites Del Ray Artisans members to this special reception. Resident artists and staff from Art Enables will be present and provide tours of galleries and studios to Del Ray Artisans members. If you are not a member, join now.
Wednesday, April 26, 11am-12pm | Guy Jones, Artist Talk & Workshop at Art Enables – DRA member and artist Guy Jones will lead an artist talk and workshop to Art Enables resident artists.
Saturday, June 10, 11am-3pm | Wax Crayon Art Workshop at Art Enables – DRA member and artist Amy Castine will lead the 2nd Saturday Workshop at Art Enables. Event is free and open to the public.

Also join us in April for these creative programs hosted at Del Ray Artisans gallery (2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia) unless otherwise noted:

Sunday, April 9, 1-3pm | Del Ray Urban Sketchers at St Elmo’s – Bring your art supplies and join us outside St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray (2300 Mount Vernon Avenue) to sketch. This program is drop-in, free, and open to the public.
Tuesday, April 18, 7-9pm | Life Drawing at Del Ray Artisans – Bring your art supplies and join us at the gallery to draw or paint our nude model. The fee for each session is $8 Del Ray Artisans member / $10 non-member.
Saturday, April 22, 10am-12pm | Creative Book Club at Del Ray Artisans – The book for this discussion is “Why A Painting Is Like A Pizza: A Guide to Understanding and Enjoying Modern Art” by Nancy G. Heller. The program is drop-in, free, and open to the public.
Tuesday, April 25, 7-9pm | Partners in Art Evening at Del Ray Artisans – Join our art-support group to share artistic goals, techniques, and the local art scene. Bring one or two artworks, in any medium and at any stage, for advice and feedback. The program is free; RSVP to the coordinator in advance.

Del Ray Artisans’ gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (closed on April 2 and April 30, 2023). For a sneak peek of the exhibit, visit the gallery on First Thursday, April 6 from 12-9pm.
The A Tale of Two Studios exhibit runs April 7–29, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible.
For more information, please contact the curator Amy Kitchin Hower at akitchin@art-enables.org.

About Art Enables
Art Enables helps artists with special needs create and sell their artwork. Only 20% of people with disabilities participate in the workforce. This program counters that by providing both an art studio for people with disabilities to make art and career and vocational training to market and sell their artwork. It helps these artists express themselves creatively, socialize, and earn flexible income to increase their independence and build careers. Art Enables is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, DC and can be found online at art-enables.org
Learn about the value of Art Enables from artist Toni Lane’s and Executive Director Tony Brunswick’s perspectives:

In this documentary about Art Enables by Freethink, hear from more of the artists about their experiences:

“A Tale of Two Studios” Exhibit Opening Reception
2023-04-07 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Artwork credit: “The Teleportal from Art Enables to Del Ray Artisans” by Shawn Payne, Art Enables
A Tale of Two Studios Art Exhibit
April 7–29, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, April 7 from 7–9pm
Del Ray Artisans partners with DC Gallery and Studio Art Enables to showcase the inspiring and diverse art of these two local community organizations and to forge creative exchange through artist talks, workshops, and tours. The A Tale of Two Studios art exhibit (curated by Amy Kitchin and co-juried by Art Enables artist Toni Lane and program manager Aimee Wanner) features favorite works by Del Ray Artisans members and Art Enables resident artists. Both groups are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, April 7 between 7-9pm at Del Ray Artisans gallery at 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia. During the opening reception, Delegate Elizabeth Bennett-Parker (VA-45) will present Del Ray Artisans with Commending House Resolution 797 from the Virginia House of Delegates. The resolution highlights the impact Del Ray Artisans has had promoting the arts and arts education in Alexandria while helping local artists grow and thrive for the past three decades. Please join us for this special presentation. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
In conjunction with the A Tale of Two Studios exhibit, these events will be hosted at Art Enables at 2204 Rhode Island Avenue, NE, Washington, DC:

Saturday, April 8, 11am-3pm | Monotype Printing Workshop at Art Enables – DRA member and artist Eileen M. O’Brien will lead the 2nd Saturday Workshop. Event is free and open to the public. Register to reserve your seat.
Saturday, April 22, 2-5pm | Wine & Cheese Reception at Art Enables – Art Enables invites Del Ray Artisans members to this special reception. Resident artists and staff from Art Enables will be present and provide tours of galleries and studios to Del Ray Artisans members. If you are not a member, join now.
Wednesday, April 26, 11am-12pm | Guy Jones, Artist Talk & Workshop at Art Enables – DRA member and artist Guy Jones will lead an artist talk and workshop to Art Enables resident artists.
Saturday, June 10, 11am-3pm | Wax Crayon Art Workshop at Art Enables – DRA member and artist Amy Castine will lead the 2nd Saturday Workshop at Art Enables. Event is free and open to the public.

Also join us in April for these creative programs hosted at Del Ray Artisans gallery (2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia) unless otherwise noted:

Sunday, April 9, 1-3pm | Del Ray Urban Sketchers at St Elmo’s – Bring your art supplies and join us outside St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray (2300 Mount Vernon Avenue) to sketch. This program is drop-in, free, and open to the public.
Tuesday, April 18, 7-9pm | Life Drawing at Del Ray Artisans – Bring your art supplies and join us at the gallery to draw or paint our nude model. The fee for each session is $8 Del Ray Artisans member / $10 non-member.
Saturday, April 22, 10am-12pm | Creative Book Club at Del Ray Artisans – The book for this discussion is “Why A Painting Is Like A Pizza: A Guide to Understanding and Enjoying Modern Art” by Nancy G. Heller. The program is drop-in, free, and open to the public.
Tuesday, April 25, 7-9pm | Partners in Art Evening at Del Ray Artisans – Join our art-support group to share artistic goals, techniques, and the local art scene. Bring one or two artworks, in any medium and at any stage, for advice and feedback. The program is free; RSVP to the coordinator in advance.

Del Ray Artisans’ gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (closed on April 2 and April 30, 2023). For a sneak peek of the exhibit, visit the gallery on First Thursday, April 6 from 12-9pm.
The A Tale of Two Studios exhibit runs April 7–29, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible.
For more information, please contact the curator Amy Kitchin Hower at akitchin@art-enables.org.

About Art Enables
Art Enables helps artists with special needs create and sell their artwork. Only 20% of people with disabilities participate in the workforce. This program counters that by providing both an art studio for people with disabilities to make art and career and vocational training to market and sell their artwork. It helps these artists express themselves creatively, socialize, and earn flexible income to increase their independence and build careers. Art Enables is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, DC and can be found online at art-enables.org
Learn about the value of Art Enables from artist Toni Lane’s and Executive Director Tony Brunswick’s perspectives:

In this documentary about Art Enables by Freethink, hear from more of the artists about their experiences:

“Prints in May @ DRA” Call for Entry Deadline
2023-04-10 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Call for Entry ~ Open to area artists & high school students
Prints in May @ DRA: Exploring the Possibilities
Exhibit Dates: May 5–27, 2023
Digital entry deadline: Monday, April 10, 2023 by midnight
Explore the possibilities of printmaking and imprinting! Enter traditional prints (e.g. block prints, intaglio prints, monoprints, collagraphs, and silkscreens), prints enhanced with mixed media, or prints repurposed in any way. Equally welcome are stamped metal jewelry, ceramic objects with imprinted designs, hand printed fabrics, and original digital art (but please, no AI generated work).
The exhibit is open to all area artists. Del Ray Artisans members pay a discounted entry fee. Free entry for high school students.
Entry Details & Form

Artwork credit, clockwise from upper left: “Block printed Bandanas” by Meredith D’Amore; “It’s a Beautiful Day” by Meredith D’Amore; “Crinkles” by Eileen O’Brien; “Sometimes I Dream” by Gordon Frank; “Covered Ceramic Vessel” by Petra Roth; “Book Time” by Ellen Rosenthal

Spring2ACTion 2023
2023-04-12 - 2023-04-26 | Online
Donate April 12–26
Starting Wednesday, April 12 through Wednesday, April 26, 2023 (Giving Day) our community comes together to support the amazing work of Alexandria nonprofits through Spring2ACTion, hosted by ACT for Alexandria. Please remember Del Ray Artisans is one of those worthy causes!
Del Ray Artisans has been promoting art for the benefit of local artists and the community since 1992. Del Ray Artisans supports the development of artists at all levels and serves as a center for thriving artistic activity in Alexandria, Virginia.
During Spring2ACTion 2023, please give your support to Del Ray Artisans’ exhibits, programs, youth and outreach activities which help members of our community grow as individuals and as artists.
If you are in a position to do so, please donate to Del Ray Artisans nonprofit today. Other ways to support:

Buy artwork from local artists during our exhibits or from members’ websites.
Order your BLICK art materials through this link and Del Ray Artisans will receive a donation from BLICK.
Share our Spring2ACTion fundraising page with your network. Crowdsourcing adds up, and we absolutely appreciate every single donation and shout-out.
Register for a Creative Workshop or attend an upcoming Creative Program. Learn something new and have fun!

Please consider a tax-deductible donation and spread the word to friends and family. Every donation is appreciated. Thank you for supporting the arts!
Donate April 12–26

First Thursday: Create Cherry Blossoms 6-8pm (Gallery Open 12-9pm)
2023-04-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Due to the weather on April 6, First Thursday: A Cherry Blossom Celebration will be celebrated on Thursday, April 13 starting at 6pm.
Join us at Del Ray Artisans from 6-8pm for our outdoor activity creating paper Cherry Blossom Flowers!
Plus see the A Tale of Two Studios art exhibit inside the gallery! Del Ray Artisans gallery is open 12-9pm on First Thursdays from April through September.

For the first First Thursday of 2023, the Del Ray Business Association presents First Thursday: A Cherry Blossom Celebration. Join the Del Ray community for live music by Mars Rodeo, themed activities, plus the Cherry Blossom Challenge scavenger hunt (March 30-April 15) featuring cherry blossom-inspired art by local artists. Participants are encouraged to bring individually-wrapped children’s snacks and juice boxes for the Dunbar Alexandria-Olympic Boys & Girls Club. Donations will be collected at the Pat Miller Neighborhood Square at the intersection of Mount Vernon and Oxford Avenues.

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 us for these neighborhood themes:

April 13, 2023 (rescheduled from April 6 due to the rain) – A Cherry Blossom Celebration
May is typically Dog Days in Del Ray
June is typically Unmask Your Superhero
July is typically Red, White, and Blue
August is typically Aloha Thursday
September is typically Show Your Spirit

“Celebration” GWW Call for Entry Deadline
2023-04-14 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Del Ray Artisans Members Only Gallery Without Walls Call for Entry
Celebration at VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital
May 1 – September 9, 2023
Entry deadline extended to Friday, April 14, 2023 by midnight
“Celebration” is the action of marking one’s pleasure at an important event or occasion by engaging in enjoyable, typically festive and social, activity. Spring and summer bring so many opportunities to celebrate—such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Fourth of July, wedding season, and family barbecues! Show us your 2D art of your favorite celebration or abstract the celebratory mood.
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: “Celebrate!” by Ellen F. Rosenthal

Volunteer in the Gardens
2023-04-16 09:00 - 11:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Spring is here! Del Ray Artisans’ gardens need some TLC. Join the Gardens Committee on Sunday, April 16 from 9am-11:30am to help clean the gardens.

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 and Jenny at Gardens@DelRayArtisans.org.
MEMBERS: This task counts towards your annual membership volunteer hours.
NON-MEMBERS: You are welcome to come help and learn too.
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.

Alcove Gift Shop Call for Artists Deadline
2023-04-16 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Call for Artists ~ Open to Del Ray Artisans Members
Alcove Gift Shop
May 5 – June 25, 2023
Application deadline: Sunday, April 16, 2023 by midnight

Del Ray Artisans’ Alcove is a gift shop within the gallery, where members (who apply and are accepted) display and sell their work. Unframed 2-D works are available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items.
The work will be displayed for two months, and as pieces are sold they can be replaced with similar work for no additional fee. This opportunity is independent of the monthly exhibits and is only open to Del Ray Artisans members. If you are not a member, you may join Del Ray Artisans now to enter.
Application Details & Form

Hygge at VCA Alexandria (1/30/2023 - 4/22/2023)
2023-04-22 | VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital, 2660 Duke St, Alexandria, VA, 22314, United States
Hygge Art Exhibit at VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital
January 30 – April 22, 2023
Photo Album | Online Store
“Hygge” is a word in Danish and Norwegian that describes a mood of coziness and “comfortable conviviality” with feelings of wellness and contentment. The Hygge exhibit, featuring 2D artwork exploring this theme, is a Del Ray Artisans’ Gallery Without Walls exhibit in partnership with VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital.
The exhibit opened on January 30, 2023 at VCA Alexandria (2660 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314) and runs through April 22, 2023 (extended from April 1). View the artwork Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 12-6pm. 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.
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.
For more information, please contact the curators Liz Martinez (GWW@DelRayArtisans.org) and Stephanie Frederick (Stephanie.Frederick@vca.com).

Artwork credit: “A Quick Nap” by Sunny Chen

Creative Book Club - “Why A Painting Is Like A Pizza: A Guide to Understanding and Enjoying Modern Art” by Nancy G. Heller
2023-04-22 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Book: “Why A Painting Is Like A Pizza: A Guide to Understanding and Enjoying Modern Art” by Nancy G. Heller
Facilitator: Rusty Lynn
Meeting Date: Saturday, April 22 from 10am-12pm
(Drop-in, set a reminder in Eventbrite)
The book for our April 22nd discussion is Why A Painting Is Like A Pizza: A Guide to Understanding and Enjoying Modern Art by Nancy G. Heller.
“How is a painting like a pizza? Both depend on visual balance for much of their overall appeal and, though both can be judged by a set of established standards pizzas and paintings must ultimately be evaluated in terms of individual taste. By using such commonsense examples and making unexpected connections, this book helps even the most skeptical viewers feel comfortable around contemporary art and see aspects of it they would otherwise miss.” —Princeton University Press (Publisher)
The Creative Book Club meets on select Saturday mornings to discuss readings by a variety of authors. The club is drop-in, free, and open to all who are interested in keeping their creative muse flowing and connecting with other creative people. Future book selections will be announced on this website and in the Weekly eNews email in advance.
If you have questions, please contact our book club leader Rusty Lynn at rustylynn@earthlink.net.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
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