Del Ray Artisans

"A Tale of Two Studios" Artwork Drop Off
2023-04-02 15:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | 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:

Del Ray Urban Sketchers
2023-04-09 13:00 - 15:00, 2023-05-14 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

Partners in Art (FULL)
2023-04-10 14:00 - 16:00, 2023-05-08 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

“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

ONLINE: Board Meeting
2023-04-11 19:00 - 21:00, 2023-05-09 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.

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

Life Drawing Session - Gesture and Short Pose
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

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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Reception for Del Ray Artisans members at Art Enables
2023-04-22 14:00 - 17:00 | Art Enables, 2204 Rhode Island Ave NE, Washington, DC, 20018, United States
Del Ray Artisans members are invited to a special wine and cheese reception at Art Enables
Join us at Art Enables—DC’s only art studio and gallery dedicated to amplifying the creative careers of artists with disabilities—to learn more about their program and partnership with DRA, meet the resident artists, tour the gallery, and chat with Art Enables’ staff.
Saturday, April 22 | 2-5 p.m.
Art Enables | 2204 Rhode Island Ave NE
RSVP
Art Enables is dedicated to providing access to everyone. If you require accommodation during your visit, please contact Amy Kitchin, Operations Manager, akitchin@art-enables.org with your request.
Not a Del Ray Artisans member? Membership rates starts at $30 for student artists and $40 for supporter members. Join now!

This special event is being held in conjunction with the “A Tale of Two Studios” art exhibit. The exhibit runs April 7–29, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.

Artwork credit: “The Teleportal from Art Enables to Del Ray Artisans” by Shawn Payne, Art Enables
Tickets: https://secure.givelively.org/event/art-enables/support-art-enables/a-tale-of-two-studios-reception-at-art-enables.

RESCHEDULED: Have a Heart Workshop (New Date: June 5, 2023)
2023-04-24 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop has been rescheduled to Monday, June 5 from 6-9pm.
Instructor: Amy Castine
Date/Time: Monday, April 24 from 6-9pm
Cost: $60 Del Ray Artisans member / $80 Non-member; plus a $20 Supply Fee
Class size: 4-8 participants
(Register by midnight on April 21)
Come and create a fun piece of wearable bead art! While bead embroidery may look complicated, it doesn’t have to be. In this workshop, you will learn four beginning bead embroidery stitches as you create your own beautifully embellished heart pendant. Plus, the skills you learn can be combined and added to all sorts of fiber arts, giving you a solid foundation to expand your creativity.
The $20 supply fee includes all the materials to make a pendant similar—but not identical—to the photo. Each pendant will be one-of-a-kind.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.

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

Partners in Art Evening
2023-04-25 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

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (3/3 - 4/29/2023)
2023-04-29 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Photo Album
The Alcove Gift Shop is open for 10 months of the year (closed in July and December for special events). New items will appear in the gift shop each week, and all the artwork is fully refreshed every two months. The current display runs March 3 – April 29, 2023.
All work featured in the gift shop is by Del Ray Artisans members. Unframed 2-D work is available in bins alongside jewelry, fiber art, wood craft, ceramics, and other smaller 3-D items. The gift shop is located in the alcove inside Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301.
The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (typically closed the last Sunday of the month). The gallery has different hours in July and December.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

"A Tale of Two Studios" Artwork Pick Up
2023-04-30 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, A Tale of Two Studios.

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

"Prints in May @ DRA" Artwork Drop Off
2023-04-30 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, Prints in May @ DRA. Artwork drop off is Sunday, April 30 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 curators: Ellen Rosenthal at efrosevalley@gmail.com and Kitty Russell.

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

First Thursday: Dog Days in Del Ray Activity 6-8pm (Gallery Open 12-9pm)
2023-05-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Join us at Del Ray Artisans on Thursday, May 4 from 6-8pm for our outdoor activity rubber stamping with a canine theme in honor of Dog Days in Del Ray!
Inside the gallery get a sneak peek of the upcoming Prints in May @ DRA art exhibit. Del Ray Artisans gallery is open 12-9pm on First Thursdays from April through September.

Del Ray, one of the most dog-friendly neighborhoods in the region, highlights “Dog Days in Del Ray” during its May First Thursday. The monthly street festival takes place on Thursday, May 4 from 6 p.m. to dusk along Mount Vernon Avenue. Bring your best four-legged friend out to the Avenue for a variety of canine-themed activities for dogs (and their humans!). Participants are encouraged to bring dry and wet food for dogs and cats for the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. Donations will be collected at the Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, located at Mt. Vernon & 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 4, 2023 – 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

Prints in May @ DRA at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-05-05 - 2023-05-27 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Prints in May @ DRA Art Exhibit
May 5–27, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, May 5 from 7–9pm
Photo Album
The Prints in May @ DRA: Exploring the Possibilities exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery features art that explores the possibilities of printmaking and imprinting on paper and objects. The exhibit features traditional printmaking techniques such as relief prints, intaglio prints, monoprints, handmade and digital prints on their own and with mixed media, along with fabrics, ceramics and other objects enhanced with block prints or imprints.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, May 5 between 7-9pm to meet curators Ellen Rosenthal and Kitty Russell and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
In addition, join us for our May programs:

Saturday, May 6, 1-3pm – Print Day in May – Come watch printmaking demonstrations and create “make and take” prints. This family-friendly, free event will be held outside the gallery weather permitting. All ages are welcome to drop in, meet some printmakers, enjoy some printmaking activities, and have fun! Print Day in May is an annual, global celebration of printmaking, where people all over the world make a print, and then post it to the Print Day in May website.
Saturday, May 13, 10am-4pm – Spring Art Market in Colasanto Park – Our annual outdoor (rain or shine) market, just outside the gallery, showcases artwork in a wide range of media including ceramics, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, paper, photography, and more. Shop original work from local artists—perfect for gifts or treat yourself!
Sunday, May 14, 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, May 16, 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.
Tuesday, May 23, 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.

The Prints in May @ DRA: Exploring the Possibilities exhibit runs May 5–27, 2023 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. The gallery is closed the last Sunday of the month (May 28, 2023). For a sneak peek of the exhibit, visit the gallery on First Thursday, May 4 from 12-9pm.
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 Ellen Rosenthal at efrosevalley@gmail.com and Kitty Russell.

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

“Prints in May @ DRA” Exhibit Opening Reception
2023-05-05 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Prints in May @ DRA Art Exhibit
May 5–27, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, May 5 from 7–9pm
The Prints in May @ DRA: Exploring the Possibilities exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery features art that explores the possibilities of printmaking and imprinting on paper and objects. The exhibit features traditional printmaking techniques such as relief prints, intaglio prints, monoprints, handmade and digital prints on their own and with mixed media, along with fabrics, ceramics and other objects enhanced with block prints or imprints.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, May 5 between 7-9pm to meet curators Ellen Rosenthal and Kitty Russell and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
In addition, join us for our May programs:

Saturday, May 6, 1-3pm – Print Day in May – Come watch printmaking demonstrations and create “make and take” prints. This family-friendly, free event will be held outside the gallery weather permitting. All ages are welcome to drop in, meet some printmakers, enjoy some printmaking activities, and have fun! Print Day in May is an annual, global celebration of printmaking, where people all over the world make a print, and then post it to the Print Day in May website.
Saturday, May 13, 10am-4pm – Spring Art Market in Colasanto Park – Our annual outdoor (rain or shine) market, just outside the gallery, showcases artwork in a wide range of media including ceramics, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, paper, photography, and more. Shop original work from local artists—perfect for gifts or treat yourself!
Sunday, May 14, 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, May 16, 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.
Tuesday, May 23, 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.

The Prints in May @ DRA: Exploring the Possibilities exhibit runs May 5–27, 2023 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. The gallery is closed the last Sunday of the month (May 28, 2023). For a sneak peek of the exhibit, visit the gallery on First Thursday, May 4 from 12-9pm.
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 Ellen Rosenthal at efrosevalley@gmail.com and Kitty Russell.

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

Celebrating PRINT DAY in May
2023-05-06 13:00 - 15:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Date: Saturday, May 6 from 1pm-3pm (set a reminder through Eventbrite)
Cost: FREE, donations appreciated
Join us on Saturday, May 6, 2023 for the annual “Print Day in May”, a global celebration of printmaking where people all over the world make a print and then post it to the Print Day in May website (printdayinmay.com). We will join the fun with printmaking demonstrations and printmaking “make and take” activities at Del Ray Artisans gallery.
Print Day in May starts in New Zealand, before we are awake, continues across Asia, Europe, and Africa, and closes out on the West coast of the US and Hawaii. At Del Ray Artisans we will have some printmaking demonstrations and some “make and take” printmaking activities for kids and adults, and our prints will be posted to the PDIM website.
This event will be held outside the gallery weather permitting. Free for the whole family. Drop in, learn about printmaking, make your own prints, and have fun!
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.

Spring Art Market 2023 in Colasanto Park (RAIN or SHINE)
2023-05-13 10:00 - 16:00 | Colasanto Park (outside Del Ray Artisans Gallery), 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Our Spring Art Market is an annual outdoor market, the day before Mother’s Day, that gives you the chance to purchase original handcrafted artwork from talented local artists. This market showcases artwork in a wide range of media including ceramics, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, paper, photography, and more. Shop original work from local artists—perfect for gifts or treat yourself!
The Spring Art Market will be on Saturday, May 13, 2023 from 10am-4pm in Colasanto Park, adjoining Del Ray Artisans gallery at 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA (at the corner of Commonwealth Avenue and Mount Vernon Avenue). Mark your calendar or set a reminder in Eventbrite.
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:

Veronika Amaya, Handmade by LMAC
Maxine Cholmondeley, Max’s Mixtures Candles & Soaps
Gretchen D’Amore
Meredith D’Amore | Rare Bird
Shelley Degges
Eileen Egan Pottery
Patty Moloney Figliola, Aisling PhotoArt
Brandon Gould, Brando
B A Hlioui Art
BWS Johnson
Mary Katz, Star and Moon Craft Shop
Camille Kouyoumdjian
Audrey Kremer, AudreyK Designs
Christine Lederman, Bead Therapy
Susan Livingston Studio
Diana Manchak, designsinclay
Liz Martinez
Diana Papazian – Papazian Design, LLC
Mayre Perez, Handmade Goods by Mayre
Robin Robinson, Vintage Glam’s Funky Junk!
Ann Cameron Siegal Photography
Meg Talley, Meg by Hand
Joyce Wagner, Reinvented Elegance
Tamara Wilkerson, WiRealm by Tamara
Tracy Wilkerson, Recycled Works

Check out the photos from past years:
Photo Album

If you have questions about the market or how to apply for a market artspace, contact Erica Hughes (Programs Director) at Programs@DelRayArtisans.org.
