Board Retreat
2024-06-01 09:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Time reserved for Del Ray Artisans’ Board Retreat. Closed to the public.

Morning Tea (SOLD OUT)
2024-05-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
UPDATE: Thank you for your interest in our morning tea. The event is now full and we are unable to accommodate walk-ins. We still encourage you to visit the gallery this month to see the work of our incredible artists featured in The Art of Tea exhibit.
Event Organizers: Suzan Ok Shumate and Sue Shumate
Date/Time: Saturday, May 25, 10am-noon
Cost: $35 Del Ray Artisans member / $45 Non-member
Event size: 12-16 participants
(Register by midnight on May 17 – SOLD OUT)
Attendees will enjoy the experience of high tea, learn about different teas, and take in the atmosphere of tables decorated to represent different artists (Vincent van Gogh, Georgia O’Keefe, Claude Monet).
Join fellow tea and art lovers for a relaxing morning of conversation over loose leaf infusions, scones, savories, and sweets. This artist-themed high tea event is perfect for individuals, couples, or small groups. You can dress up in your favorite hats and gloves, or feel free to dress casually, too.
Morning tea will include sweets, savories, and hot tea/water. However, we are unable to accommodate special dietary restrictions. We will try to offer a variety of vegetarian options.
This event is being held in conjunction with The Art of Tea art exhibit.
Register Now

Artwork credit: High tea place setting and photograph by Sue Shumate

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

Nature Journaling Club
2024-05-25 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-04-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Practiced by artists and naturalists alike, nature journaling is a centuries-old exercise in refining our powers of observation, appreciation for nature, drawing skills, and mindful presence. This group is open to all experience levels as we meet to sketch, connect, and learn together!
We meet at 10am in front of Del Ray Artisans on the final Saturday morning of the month (except not in July, November, and December). Mark your calendar or set a reminder in Eventbrite.
Participants will need to bring their own sketchbooks and supplies. We will have plenty of time for sketching in nature before gathering again at 11:30am to share our sketches and observations and discuss tips and tools for nature journaling in the wild. We hope you will join us as we strengthen our art and inquiry practice together!
Suggested supplies: sketchbook, pens, pencils, colored pencils, watercolor pencils, or other portable media, and a water bottle since we will be outdoors. You may also want to bring something to sit on (folding chair or blanket).
NOTE: This program is held outdoors and will be canceled if raining.
This program is FREE! Donations appreciated. For more information, contact the coordinators: Stephanie Darlene Greenwald (stephanie@stephaniedarlene.com) and Meredith D’Amore (meredith.w.damore@gmail.com).
View Upcoming Dates

Artwork credit: Drawing by Meredith D’Amore

Author Talk: "Get the Picture" with Bianca Bosker
2024-05-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Join us for an enlightening author talk and book signing at Del Ray Artisans gallery, featuring Bianca Bosker. In Get the Picture, Bosker immerses herself in the nerve center of art and the people who live for it: gallerists, collectors, curators, and, of course, artists themselves—the kind who work multiple jobs to afford their studios while scrabbling to get eyes on their art. Bosker stretches canvases until her fingers blister, talks her way into A-list parties for billionaire collectors, sells art as a gallerist, and has her face sat on by a nearly-naked performance artist. As a museum security guard, she forces herself to stare at a single sculpture for hours on end. Bosker discovers not only the inner workings of the art machine but also a more expansive way of living. Probing everything from cave paintings to Instagram, from the science of sight to the importance of beauty, Get the Picture examines art’s role in our culture, our economy, and our hearts.
Please register in advance through the Alexandria Library website. This event is organized by the Friends of the Duncan Library, a neighbor volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Register Now

Life Drawing Session – Gesture and Short Pose
2024-05-21 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-05-07 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-04-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Drop-in and practice life drawing on two select Tuesday evenings each month. Bring your supplies and join us at the gallery to draw or paint our nude model.
Traditional drawing media (such as pencils, pens, and charcoal) are welcome; and pastels, watercolor and ink are permissible. Please do not bring acrylics or oil paints. We don’t supply easels – only plenty of chairs – but you are welcome to bring your own easel if you want to use one. All skill levels are welcome.
The first part of this session will be focused on gesture poses (dynamic 1-5 minute poses) to loosen up and participate in a fun, fast-paced drawing experience. The second hour will be a few short poses for more detailed drawings leading up to up to two 20-minute poses.
Fee for each session is $8 for Del Ray Artisans members and $10 for non-members. Register now or pay at the gallery before the session. If you have any questions or would like to participate as a model for our sessions, please contact Brando Gould at LifeDrawing@DelRayArtisans.org.
View artwork from past DRA Life Drawing Sessions on Instagram! Tag #dralifedraw or @dralifedraw for your work to be featured.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Register Now | View Upcoming Sessions

Artwork credit: “To The Beat” by Katherine Rand

Playing with Resin Workshop (Register ASAP)
2024-05-20 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Tracy Wilkerson, recycledworks@yahoo.com
Date/Time: Monday, May 20 from 6-9pm
Cost: $40 Del Ray Artisans member / $50 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 6-12 participants
(Register in advance; Walk-ins welcome if space permits)
Learn the ins and outs of prepping for and mixing resin, and how to use it as an adhesive, a covering, or the main medium. There’s lots of creative time during this 3-hour workshop… No need to rush, which is one of the first lessons in using resin! All supplies are provided, but feel free to bring personal embellishments for your piece(s).
This workshop does not get into using dyes with resin or building big molds to create one-of-a-kind resined tables (as seen on YouTube), but this workshop will provide you with a good understanding of how resin works so you can be bold enough to take the next steps in your creative interests.
Although the class is listed for 3 hours, you can leave once you have finished your creations. Some students finish very quickly while others take the whole 3 hours to create – there is plenty of time for each person to enjoy the creative process while not feeling rushed. You’ll leave your finished masterpiece(s) to set at the gallery at the end of the workshop, and pick them up during gallery hours later in the week.
The workshop is designed for adults. Children ages 16-17 may participate with parental permission. Children ages 12-15 may participate only with a co-participating adult guardian (guardian must contact instructor in advance).
Register Now

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

[Canceled] Paint Your Own Tessellated Tea Mug Workshop (Register by 5/14)
2024-05-19 10:00 - 13:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Bridget Anthony-Hlioui
Date/Time: Sunday, May 19, 10am-1pm
Cost: $30 Del Ray Artisans member / $35 Non-member; plus a $45 Supply Fee
Class size: 5-10 participants
(Register by midnight on May 14)
Learn to paint a tessellated pattern on a mug in this 3-hour beginner to intermediate workshop taught by Alexandria-based artist and instructor Bridget Anthony-Hlioui, B A Hlioui Art. Bridget’s passion for patterns and world cultures has been featured in Alexandria’s very own Art on the Avenue and is gaining national recognition. Tessellation is a method of artistic decoration that has been used for centuries in the Islamic world to decorate ceramics, architecture, and textiles.
Bridget will walk you through the process as you learn how to tessellate a pattern, design and apply it to your mug and paint. All skill levels are encouraged to try it. The supply fee includes one ceramic bisque mug, food safe underglazes, glaze, and firing services. Finished pieces will be ready for pick-up at the gallery approximately two weeks following the workshop.
Register Now

Artwork credit: Doorways tea cups by Bridget Anthony-Hlioui

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

Creative Book Club – “Studio of the South: Van Gogh in Provence” by Martin Bailey
2024-05-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Book: “Studio of the South: Van Gogh in Provence” by Martin Bailey
Facilitator: Rusty Lynn
Meeting Date: Saturday, May 18 from 10am-12pm
(Drop-in, set a reminder in Eventbrite)
Join us to discuss “Studio of the South: Van Gogh in Provence” by Martin Bailey. The book tells the story of Van Gogh’s stay in Arles.
“For Van Gogh, the south of France was an exciting new land, bursting with life. He walked into the hills inspired by the landscapes, and painted harvest scenes in the heat of summer. He visited a fishing village where he saw the Mediterranean for the first time, energetically capturing it in paint. He painted portraits of friends and locals, and flower still life paintings, culminating in the now iconic Sunflowers. He rented the Yellow House, and gradually did it up, calling it ‘an artist’s house’, inviting Paul Gauguin to join him there. This encounter was to have a profound impact on both of the artists. They painted side by side, their collaboration coming to a dramatic end a few months later. The difficulties Van Gogh faced led to his eventual decision to retreat to the asylum at Saint-Remy.
“Based on extensive original research, the book reveals discoveries that throw new light on the legendary artist and give a definitive account of his fifteen months in Provence, including his time at the Yellow House, his collaboration with Gauguin and its tragic and shocking ending.”
–Frances Lincoln, Publisher
The Creative Book Club meets on select Saturday mornings to discuss readings by a variety of authors. The club is 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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Volunteer in the Gardens
2024-05-18 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 will meet the third Saturday of every month from 9am-11am. In June and August, we’ll meet an hour earlier (8am-10am) to avoid the heat. The July 20th session has been cancelled. The September session has been rescheduled to Sunday, September 22nd 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.

Early Morning Gallery Hours during Bike to Work Day
2024-05-17 06:30 - 09:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Del Ray Artisans gallery has early morning hours, 6:30am to 9:30am, on Friday, May 17 to help support Bike to Work Day 2024. Stop by and see The Art of Tea exhibit now through June 2, 2024.
Fellow Del Ray Business Association member Vélocity Bicycle Cooperative is hosting the Bike to Work Day 2024 Del Ray pit stop in Colasanto Park, next to Del Ray Artisans gallery.

Member Meeting & Benefit Program: Instagram for Artists
2024-05-16 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Join us in-person or via Zoom (a hybrid meeting) for a FREE program of interest for DRA members. We’ll start with refreshments and a brief business meeting, then dive into Instagram for Artists!
Del Ray Artisans’ Technology Director Dina Wise will walk you through Instagram, including building posts, stories, reels, and more. She’ll discuss the importance of captions, hashtags and @tags; setting up collaborations; and how to photograph and edit art to create the perfect post.
Homework before the meeting: if you haven’t already, try signing up for Instagram and come with questions! Dina may not be able to help remote viewers with troubleshooting specific to their account, but generic questions are welcome. For hands-on help, please attend in person.
Don’t miss this presentation! Zoom information was emailed to all members on Sunday, May 12. If you did not receive the email, please contact Kate at Membership@DelRayArtisans.org and Dina at Technology@DelRayArtisans.org.

Partners in Art Evening (RSVP in Advance)
2024-05-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Calling fellow artists, beginners to professionals, you are invited to join our art-support group, to share artistic goals, techniques, and the local art scene. Participants may show one or two artworks, any medium, in any stage, for advice and feedback.
To join our small, friendly, and supportive artists’ group, contact Michele Reday Cook at mredaycook@gmail.com for details and registration BEFORE the day of the meeting.
This program is free. Donations ($1-3) are greatly appreciated. Contact Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com) with questions.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
View Upcoming Meetings

ONLINE: Board of Directors Meeting
2024-05-14 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 four days in advance of the meeting to be included on the agenda and receive the Zoom session link.

“All About Love” Call for Entry Deadline
2024-05-13 23:59 | VA
Call for Entry ~ Open to area artists
All About Love
Exhibit Dates: June 7–30, 2024
Digital entry deadline extended to Monday, May 13, 2024 by midnight
“All About Love” by TJ Feeley
While the ancient Greeks identified eight major types of love, humans have an infinite number of ways to love. Enter artwork that explores the concept of love in any of its forms: romantic love, love of family, love of pets, young love, enduring love, strong friendships, soulmates, and more.
The exhibit is open to all area artists. Del Ray Artisans members pay a discounted entry fee.
Entry Details & Form

Del Ray Urban Sketchers
2024-05-12 13:00 - 15:00 | St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, 2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Del Ray Urban Sketchers operates on a drop-in basis and meets the second Sunday of most months at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray. (Del Ray Urban Sketchers does not meet in July, August, and December.) Mark your calendar or set a reminder in Eventbrite.
Urban sketchbooking emphasizes storytelling that conveys a sense of place or a moment in time through drawings completed from direct observations.
Bring your supplies and join us outside at the cafe to produce still life, figure, or architecture subjects in your sketchbook. Participants will spend some time putting their skills into practice and then reconvene for a review of finished works.
This program is FREE! Donations appreciated. Meet outside at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub (2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301). Contact the organizer, Joan Bickelhaupt (joanbickelhaupt@gmail.com), with any questions.
RSVP via Eventbrite | View Upcoming Dates

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

Spring Art Market 2024 in Colasanto Park
2024-05-11 10:00 - 16:00 | Colasanto Park (outside Del Ray Artisans Gallery), 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Del Ray Artisans’ Spring Art Market is on Saturday, May 11, 2024 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).
Thank you to MCD Mateos for your support!
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. Plus community partner MCD Mateos, McDonald’s joins the fun with face painting and balloons for children!
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 2024 featured artists are:

John T. Allen, Permian Designs
Kristen Anderson, Boot Sole Pottery
B A Hlioui Art
Bhavani Arabandi, Samhara Ceramics
Victoria Barnes Photography
Kat Cook, Nistavac Studios
Ana Driscoll, Fahrenheit99 & Co.
T.Duncan Ceramics
Eileen Egan Pottery
Patty Moloney Figliola
Amanda Fletchersmith, Custom Monster
kazuko fuller, chesapeake
Nicole Gauvin, made by Knerq
Art by Julia Glatfelter
Lesley Hall, Ruthless Art
Ellen Hamilton, Yellow Dot Shop
Claudia Heath
Robin Hunter-Reid, Moxie & Magic
Monica Jain, monicazcollection
BWS Johnson + Tom Johnson
Mary Katz, Star and Moon Creations
Audrey Kremer, AudreyK-Designs
Christine Lederman, Bead Therapy
Danielle Mackin, Dani’s Bazaar
Diana Manchak
Liz Martinez
Maria Matas, M’s Jewelry
Susan Pawlukiewicz, Carvings in Lucite
Mayre Perez, Handmade Goods by Mayre
Madeline Ramsey, Unique Stained Glass
Tiara Safic-Martin
Edith Sanabria, Edith Graciela Art
Ashley Smith, Gryffin River Shack
Ashley Vietri, Fire in Hand Jewelry
Joyce Wagner, Reinvented Elegance
Tamara Wilkerson, WiRealm by Tamara
Tracy Wilkerson

Photo Album

If you have questions about the market, contact Lesley Hall at VP@DelRayArtisans.org.

Partners in Art (FULL)
2024-05-06 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

Zen Brush Calligraphy Workshop (Register by 5/4)
2024-05-05 09:30 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Jenny Nicholson
Date/Time: Sunday, May 5, 9:30am-noon
Cost: $45 Del Ray Artisans member / $55 Non-member; plus a $20 Supply Fee
Class size: 3-10 participants
(Register by midnight on May 4)
Join us for a cup of green tea, jasmine pearls, genmaicha, or other teas (tea provided) and learn about the four treasures of East Asian style calligraphy (brush, ink, ink stone, and paper). We will practice with the brush and explore personal expression using sumi ink on rice paper. The final project will be a weathergram to hang outside and a small booklet of our practice. All art materials are included in the supply fee.
Register Now

Artwork credit: Zen Brush Calligraphy by Jennifer Nicholson

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

Block Printing 2.0 Workshop: Beyond the Basics (Register by 5/1)
2024-05-04 09:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Ellen Rosenthal, efrosevalley@gmail.com
Date/Time: Saturday, May 4, 9am-noon
Cost: $20 Del Ray Artisans member / $30 Non-member; plus students must bring supplies
Class size: 3-6 participants
(Register by midnight on May 1)
This workshop is for those who have the basics of single ink block printing, but want to do more. We’ll go beyond the basics by learning about enhancing designs with linear art techniques, exploring ways to add additional color and interest through double-ink and simple reduction ink printing, and using post-printing enhancement techniques, such as collage and mixed media.
Participants must bring 4-8 block-prints previously created from the same edition, plus the block used to make them, and the supplies listed below.
Bring these Printmaking Materials:

4-8 block prints from the same edition. Prints do not have to be perfect, can be “seconds”, and digital prints or photocopies of the print would work fine for this workshop. Ideally, the block prints should be smaller than 8 x 10″
The carved block used to make the above block prints. If you do not have the actual block, bring a blank block that is the same size.
Cutter tools
Bench hook/printing plate
Water-based block-printing inks (recently purchased, not old) in 2-3 colors minimum (No oil-based printmaking inks)
Brayer
Printmaking paper, white or colored. “Fadeless Art Paper” 12 x 18″ sheets (not the rolls) from Amazon are an excellent choice
Wooden or metal spoon
New make-up sponges or a small kitchen sponge

Bring these other Art Materials:

Pencil: 2B and Ebony pencil (or other soft pencil 4B or 6B)
White drawing paper 9 x 12″ for sketching and for making stencils
Scissors
Your favorite dry art materials (color pencils, markers, crayons, etc.)
Glue stick
Scraps and pieces of colored or patterned paper (optional; I’ll have some to use)
Paper towels (the gallery does not supply them)
Smock or old shirt

Please contact instructor Ellen Rosenthal at efrosevalley@gmail.com with any questions. Looking forward to celebrating Print Day in May with you!
Register Now

Artwork credit: Block print progression by Ellen Rosenthal

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

"The Art of Tea" Exhibit Opening Reception
2024-05-03 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The Art of Tea Art Exhibit
May 3 – June 2, 2024
Opening Reception: Friday, May 3 from 7–9pm
“Floral Infusion” by Suzan Ok Shumate and Sue Shumate
Step into a world where art intersects with tea. Through The Art of Tea exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery, artists explore the culture of tea, a drink that dates back thousands of years to China’s Shang Dynasty. Channeling their inner Zhou Fang, Matisse, Cassatt, and van Rijsselberghe, artists depict themes and stories surrounding this aromatic beverage. From tea cups and tea pots to the Mad Hatter or Boston Tea Party, this exhibit intrigues and delights, like an herbal infusion on a sunny morning.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, May 3 between 7-9pm to meet curators Suzan Ok Shumate and Sue Shumate and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
Get your tickets now for Morning Tea on Saturday, May 25 from 10am-noon ($35 per Del Ray Artisans member, $45 per non-member). Wear your favorite hats and gloves, or dress casually; this is a time to relax and enjoy a few hours of conversation with friends or family over a delicious cup of tea with petite savories and sweets.
The Art of Tea exhibit runs May 3 – June 2, 2024 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, Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm. On the last day of the exhibit (Sunday, June 2) the gallery is open 12-4pm.
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 Suzan Ok Shumate at suzan.ok@gmail.com and Sue Shumate at susan.shumate1@gmail.com or Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

The Art of Tea at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2024-05-03 - 2024-06-02 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The Art of Tea Art Exhibit
May 3 – June 2, 2024
Opening Reception: Friday, May 3 from 7–9pm
“Floral Infusion” by Suzan Ok Shumate and Sue Shumate
Photo Album
Step into a world where art intersects with tea. Through The Art of Tea exhibit at Del Ray Artisans gallery, artists explore the culture of tea, a drink that dates back thousands of years to China’s Shang Dynasty. Channeling their inner Zhou Fang, Matisse, Cassatt, and van Rijsselberghe, artists depict themes and stories surrounding this aromatic beverage. From tea cups and tea pots to the Mad Hatter or Boston Tea Party, this exhibit intrigues and delights, like an herbal infusion on a sunny morning.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, May 3 between 7-9pm to meet curators Suzan Ok Shumate and Sue Shumate and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
Get your tickets now for Morning Tea on Saturday, May 25 from 10am-noon ($35 per Del Ray Artisans member, $45 per non-member). Wear your favorite hats and gloves, or dress casually; this is a time to relax and enjoy a few hours of conversation with friends or family over a delicious cup of tea with petite savories and sweets.
The Art of Tea exhibit runs May 3 – June 2, 2024 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, Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm. On the last day of the exhibit (Sunday, June 2) the gallery is open 12-4pm.
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 Suzan Ok Shumate at suzan.ok@gmail.com and Sue Shumate at susan.shumate1@gmail.com or Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

First Thursday Activity: Dog Mask Making 6:30-8pm (Gallery Open 12-9pm)
2024-05-02 18:30 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Channel your inner hound dog at Del Ray Artisans during the Dog Days of Del Ray First Thursday event! Want to look more like your best friend? From 6:30-8pm on May 2 come by the gallery to color your own dog mask during our family-friendly activity! Then try your hand at a game of outdoor lawn darts FETCH games using soft and safe dartboard balls.
Be sure to bring along your four-legged BFF and family for photo opp fun and games! Pups can be art aficionados too. Dog treats provided while supplies last.
Plus get a sneak peek of The Art of Tea art exhibit. Del Ray Artisans gallery is open 12-9pm on First Thursdays from April through September.

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

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

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

Closed to the Public: Artist Appointments Only
2024-04-28 12:00 - 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 is reserved for artists to pick up and drop off artwork. Contact the outgoing or incoming curators with any questions (contact info in the call for entry).
Unsold Artwork Pick Up
Time for artists to pick up their unsold artwork from the closing exhibit, Same But Different.

Accepted Artwork Drop Off
Time for artists to drop off their accepted artwork entries for the upcoming exhibit, The Art of Tea. 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.

Party for the Arts at Canal Center
2024-04-27 11:00 - 19:00 | Canal Center Gallery, 11 Canal Center Plaza, Alexandria, VA, 22314, United States
The City of Alexandria is celebrating its 275th anniversary this year. The Alexandria Arts Alliance commemorates the occasion during the 2nd annual Party for the Arts—a celebration showcasing all artists in Alexandria on Saturday, April 27, 11am-7pm at Canal Center, Alexandria’s waterfront venue in the Old Town North Arts District. The party will feature an art market, games for children, local music groups, singers, dancers, poetry readings, food, and other live performances.
Del Ray Artisans is pleased to have its members featured in Alexandria Arts Alliance’s 2024 Party for the Arts exhibit as a part of our Gallery Without Walls program. This juried visual arts exhibition at the Canal Center Gallery features all local visual artists—and their love for Alexandria expressed through art! The exhibit opens during the Party for the Arts and runs through June 30, 2024. Gallery hours are:

Saturday, April 27, 11am-7pm during Party for the Arts
Saturday, May 18 (hours TBD)
Saturday, June 8 (hours TBD)
Saturday, June 15 (hours TBD)

The Alexandria Arts Alliance is a coalition of arts organizations, artists and arts advocates that works to advance the arts in Alexandria through advocacy, collaboration, education, and marketing. Del Ray Artisans is a member of Alexandria Arts Alliance.

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (3/1 - 4/27/2024)
2024-04-27 | 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 1 – April 27, 2024.
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 is open three hours longer (from 12-9pm) on First Thursday, April 4. Hours differ in July and December.
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).

Playing with Resin Workshop (Register ASAP)
2024-04-22 18:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Tracy Wilkerson, recycledworks@yahoo.com
Date/Time: Monday, April 22 from 6-9pm
Cost: $40 Del Ray Artisans member / $50 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 6-12 participants
(Register in advance)
Learn the ins and outs of prepping for and mixing resin, and how to use it as an adhesive, a covering, or the main medium. There’s lots of creative time during this 3-hour workshop… No need to rush, which is one of the first lessons in using resin! All supplies are provided, but feel free to bring personal embellishments for your piece(s).
This workshop does not get into using dyes with resin or building big molds to create one-of-a-kind resined tables (as seen on YouTube), but this workshop will provide you with a good understanding of how resin works so you can be bold enough to take the next steps in your creative interests.
Although the class is listed for 3 hours, you can leave once you have finished your creations. Some students finish very quickly while others take the whole 3 hours to create – there is plenty of time for each person to enjoy the creative process while not feeling rushed. You’ll leave your finished masterpiece(s) to set at the gallery at the end of the workshop, and pick them up during gallery hours later in the week.
The workshop is designed for adults. Children ages 16-17 may participate with parental permission. Children ages 12-15 may participate only with a co-participating adult guardian (guardian must contact instructor in advance).
Register Now

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

Creative Flower Photography Workshop (Registration Closed)
2024-04-21 09:30 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Victoria Barnes, victoriabarnesphotography@gmail.com
Date/Time: Sunday, April 21, 9:30am–noon
Cost: $45 Del Ray Artisans member / $55 Non-member; plus bring your camera
Class size: 4-15 participants
(Register by midnight on April 18. No walk-ins.)
Learn how to improve your flower photography with simple and inexpensive tips and tricks, using everyday items. This class will teach you how to create beautiful photographs worthy of hanging in the home, whether the flowers are in a garden, or if you use a bouquet of store-bought flowers. The class will also focus on some creative ideas to take your flower photography to the next level. This workshop is great for any level of photography experience, including beginners.
Students must bring their own camera. Digital cameras are best, but phone cameras may be used if necessary. Tripods are not required, but may be useful.
Register Now

Artwork credit: Photographs by Victoria Barnes

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