Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (8/4 - 9/30/2023)
2023-09-30 | 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 August 4 – September 30, 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).

Alcove Gift Shop Call for Artists Deadline
2023-09-23 23:50 - 23:59 (America/New_York) | Online
Call for Artists ~ Open to Del Ray Artisans Members
Alcove Gift Shop
October 6 – November 26, 2023
Application deadline: Saturday, September 23, 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

RESCHEDULED: HalloWEIRD Art Market 2023 in Colasanto Park is now on Sunday, October 15
2023-09-23 10:00 - 16:00 | Colasanto Park (outside Del Ray Artisans Gallery), 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Due to the weather, the 2nd annual HalloWEIRD outdoor art market has been rescheduled to Sunday, October 15, 2023.
Come browse Halloween-inspired creations that are spooky, creepy, crawly, and goth. Maybe you like the upbeat, fun side of the season, like costumes, hot cider, hay rides, autumn colors. You can see art celebrating that too! The market offers diverse, original handcrafted artwork from talented local artists in a wide range of media, including ceramics, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, paper, photography, and more. There is something for everyone!
This is an outdoor, family-friendly, rain-or-shine event in Colasanto Park adjoining Del Ray Artisans gallery at 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA (corner of Commonwealth and Mount Vernon avenues). The market is FREE to browse and open to the public. Mark your calendar or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
The artists featured in the market are:

John T Allen, Permian Designs
Amy Bruce Studios
Amy Castine, Castine Beadwork
Maxine Cholmondeley, Max’s Mixtures Candles & Soaps
Meredith D’Amore, Rare Bird Press
Ariane D’Souza
Amanda Fletchersmith, Custom Monster
Lesley Hall-Runner, Ruthless Art
Erica Hughes and Suzan Ok Shumate, Fox Arrow Artisans
BWS Johnson, Blooms of Paradise
Betsy Jones
Archna Kanodia, Heena Art – Hand Decorations
Mary Katz, Star and Moon Creations
Annemarie Kuhns, Love + Lino
Megan Levanduski, Megan Elaine Designs
Samantha Ludwitzke, Samantha’s Doodles
Liz Martinez, Spirit of the Mandala
Madeleine Meredith, Miles & Bear
Susan Pawlukiewicz, Lucite Creations
Christina Rojas, et cetera
Tekla Taylor
Tracy Wilkerson, Recycled Works

Special Performances: Del Ray Artisans and Monarca in Flight present “Human Spiders” during HalloWEIRD! Monarca in Flight is Northern Virginia’s first studio devoted primarily to aerials and aerials education.
Step inside Del Ray Artisans gallery to see the Farther Afield art exhibit (September 1–30, 2023) featuring artwork that takes us outside of our day-to-day lives to locations far and wide. Del Ray Artisans, founded in 1992, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.

For more information on HalloWEIRD, contact Erica Hughes (Programs Director) at Programs@DelRayArtisans.org.

Partners in Art Evening
2023-09-19 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

“Curses! Foiled Again! The Art of Swords and Sorcery” Call for Entry Deadline Extended
2023-09-16 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Call for Entry ~ Open to area artists
Curses! Foiled Again! The Art of Swords and Sorcery
Exhibit Dates: October 6–28, 2023
Digital entry extended deadline to Saturday, September 16, 2023 by midnight
From the daring swordswoman with her bevy of mythical beasts to the haggard bog witch, all expressions of the fantastic are invited! Whether you are inspired by the texture of a dragon’s skin, the swirling cloak of a sorceress, the shriek of a hydra, or a technical manual of swordplay, share your vision of SWORDs and SORCERY!
All media are welcome. The exhibit is open to all area artists. Del Ray Artisans members pay a discounted entry fee.
Entry Details & Form

Artwork credit: “Snarler” by Erica Hughes

ONLINE: Board Meeting
2023-09-12 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.

Partners in Art (FULL)
2023-09-11 14:00 - 16:00, 2023-08-07 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

Holiday Market 2023 Call for Artists Deadline
2023-09-10 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Call for Artists
Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market
December 1–23, 2023
Application deadline: Sunday, September 10, 2023 by midnight

Applications for exhibitors in Del Ray Artisans’ 28th annual Holiday Market are now open. Different artists from a variety of media categories will be selected for each weekend. Preference is given to Del Ray Artisans members.
The market will be the first three weekends of December (1-3, 8-10, and 15-17; Friday night and Saturday and Sunday days) as usual, plus this year we will have a special fourth weekend that will run December 22-23 (Friday and Saturday only) for last minute shoppers. This fourth weekend is only available for Del Ray Artisans members who are artists that participated in one of the first three weekends.
All work sold at the Holiday Market must be handmade by the artist selling the work and originals need to have been made within the last 3 years. Reproductions are acceptable as long as the original was made by the artist within the last 3 years.
Read the application carefully; if you have any questions, please ask one of the coordinators.
Application Details & Form

Del Ray Urban Sketchers (Canceled on Sept 10)
2023-09-10 13:00 - 15:00 | St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, 2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The September 10, 2023 session has been cancelled. Please join us on Sunday, October 8.
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. 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

Beaded Lanyard Thingies Workshop (Register Now)
2023-09-09 09:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Amy Castine, amy.castine@aim.com
Date/Time: Saturday, September 9 from 9am-12pm
Cost: $60 Del Ray Artisans member / $80 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 4-10 participants
(Register by noon on September 8)
Join instructor Amy Castine for a great introduction to off loom bead weaving as you learn to make your own lanyard/glasses keeper. This versatile beaded rope is a useful and beautiful way to hold some of the necessities of life while adding your personal style to any outfit. You will also have a chance to do a little beginner wire wrapping and make a lovely pendant to transform your lanyard into a necklace. Sign up today as space is limited!
The supply fee includes all the materials to make a similar piece—but not identical—to the photo. Each piece will be one-of-a-kind.
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.
Register Now

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

Celebration at VCA Alexandria (5/1/2023 - 9/9/2023)
2023-09-09 | VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital, 2660 Duke St, Alexandria, VA, 22314, United States
Celebration Art Exhibit at VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital
May 1 – September 9, 2023
Photo Album | Online Store
“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! The Celebration exhibit features 2D artwork by Del Ray Artisans members exploring this theme. The exhibit is a Del Ray Artisans’ Gallery Without Walls exhibit in partnership with VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital.
Come see the exhibit May 1 through September 9, 2023 at VCA Alexandria (2660 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314). The animal hospital is open 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: “FLOWERS PARTYING (who put vodka in the water?)” by M. Reday Cook

First Thursday RESCHEDULED to October 5
2023-09-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Due to the projected thunderstorms, the last First Thursday of 2023 has been rescheduled from September 7 to October 5.
The gallery will still be open late on September 7 from 12-9pm.
Come inside Del Ray Artisans gallery to see the Farther Afield 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 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 1, 2023 – Baseball – Every Pitch Counts!
July 6, 2023 – Red, White, & Brews (Gallery is closed; no outdoor activity)
August 3, 2023 – A Country Music Showdown
October 5, 2023 (rescheduled from Sept 7 due to thunderstorms) – Star Wars Day in a Neighborhood Far, Far Away

Life Drawing Session - Gesture and Short Pose
2023-09-05 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

2024 Wall Calendar Call for Entry Deadline
2023-09-03 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Call for Entry (Open to Members Only)
Del Ray Artisans’ 2024 Wall Calendar
Digital entries due Sunday, September 3, 2023
Members: Submit your best work to the 11th annual Del Ray Artisans’ wall calendar! All entries are to be received digitally, and no physical pieces of art will be collected. There is no entry fee, no theme, and work previously shown at Del Ray Artisans is acceptable. Your Del Ray Artisans membership must be up-to-date.
The Calendar Selection Committee will choose approximately 50-60 pieces of art from Del Ray Artisans members to be included in the 2024 Wall Calendar. This calendar is a fundraiser to benefit Del Ray Artisans, but also a fun way to show your support for our arts organization and share your talent with the community.
Entry Details & Form

Creative Canvas Workshop (Cancelled)
2023-09-02 09:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop has been cancelled.
Instructor: Kelsey Joyce, kelseyjoyceart@gmail.com
Date/Time: Saturday, September 2 from 9am-12pm
Cost: $35 Del Ray Artisans member / $45 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 4-10 participants
(Register by midnight on August 28)
Learn how to reuse everyday objects and discover new ways to approach a canvas. The canvas you choose can greatly affect how viewers interpret the artwork created. During this workshop you will learn how to creatively choose a canvas to amplify the message you are trying to communicate or add desired aesthetic appeal, as well as create a painting on the object.
All supplies included. Instructor Kelsey Joyce will bring a bunch of objects to choose from and encourages you to bring your own!
Face masks are recommended inside the gallery.

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

“Farther Afield” Exhibit Opening Reception
2023-09-01 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Farther Afield Art Exhibit
September 1–30, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, September 1 from 7–9pm
Art allows the viewer to travel and experience new sights without leaving home. The Farther Afield art exhibit takes this literally by celebrating artwork that takes us outside of our day-to-day lives to locations far and wide. Whether depicting a scene from a day trip or from halfway across the world, these artworks transport the viewer away from Alexandria to new cities, states, countries, and continents.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, September 1 between 7-9pm to meet curator Alexandra Schmeling and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
There’s more to see at Del Ray Artisans in September. Browse Halloween-inspired creations during our HalloWEIRD outdoor art market on Saturday, September 23 from 10am to 4pm. The market is family-friendly and takes place rain-or-shine. You can also check out our September programs:

Creative Canvas Workshop on Saturday, Sept 2 from 9am-12pm – Learn how to creatively choose a canvas to amplify the message you are trying to communicate and create a painting on the object. Register by Aug 28.
Life Drawing Session on Tuesday, Sept 5, 7-9pm – Drop-in with your art supplies to draw or paint our nude model. Please do not bring acrylics or oil paints.
First Thursday: Star Wars Day in a Neighborhood Far, Far Away on Sept 7, 6-8pm (FREE) – Drop in for an outdoor activity in our gardens and check out the exhibit inside the gallery.
Beaded Lanyard Thingies Workshop on Saturday, Sept 9 from 9am-12pm – Get a great introduction to off-loom bead weaving as you learn to make your own lanyard/glasses keeper. Register by Sept 4.
Stretchy Bracelets with Healing Properties Workshop on Saturday, Sept 16 from 6-9pm – Design and make two stretchy bracelets out of a selection of semi-precious stones, crystals, and accent beads. Register by Sept 11.
Partners in Art Evening – Tuesday, September 19, 7-9pm (FREE) – Join our art-support group to share one or two artworks, any medium, in any stage, for advice and feedback. RSVP in advance.
Nature Journaling Club – Saturday, September 30, 10am-12pm (FREE) – Drop-in with your sketchbook and art supplies to sketch in our gardens, then share your drawings with the group. This program is held outdoors and will be canceled in the event of rain.

The Farther Afield exhibit runs September 1–30, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are First Thursday (April-September) 12-9pm, Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (closed on October 1, 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 curator Alexandra Schmeling at hello@alexandraschmeling.com.

Artwork credit: “Jardin des Plantes, Paris” by Alexandra Schmeling

Farther Afield at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2023-09-01 - 2023-09-30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Farther Afield Art Exhibit
September 1–30, 2023
Opening Reception: Friday, September 1 from 7–9pm
Art allows the viewer to travel and experience new sights without leaving home. The Farther Afield art exhibit takes this literally by celebrating artwork that takes us outside of our day-to-day lives to locations far and wide. Whether depicting a scene from a day trip or from halfway across the world, these artworks transport the viewer away from Alexandria to new cities, states, countries, and continents.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday, September 1 between 7-9pm to meet curator Alexandra Schmeling and the artists. Mark your calendar now or set a reminder through Eventbrite.
There’s more to see at Del Ray Artisans in September. Browse Halloween-inspired creations during our HalloWEIRD outdoor art market on Saturday, September 23 from 10am to 4pm. The market is family-friendly and takes place rain-or-shine. You can also check out our September programs:

Creative Canvas Workshop on Saturday, Sept 2 from 9am-12pm – Learn how to creatively choose a canvas to amplify the message you are trying to communicate and create a painting on the object. Register by Aug 28.
Life Drawing Session on Tuesday, Sept 5, 7-9pm – Drop-in with your art supplies to draw or paint our nude model. Please do not bring acrylics or oil paints.
First Thursday: Star Wars Day in a Neighborhood Far, Far Away on Sept 7, 6-8pm (FREE) – Drop in for an outdoor activity in our gardens and check out the exhibit inside the gallery.
Beaded Lanyard Thingies Workshop on Saturday, Sept 9 from 9am-12pm – Get a great introduction to off-loom bead weaving as you learn to make your own lanyard/glasses keeper. Register by Sept 4.
Stretchy Bracelets with Healing Properties Workshop on Saturday, Sept 16 from 6-9pm – Design and make two stretchy bracelets out of a selection of semi-precious stones, crystals, and accent beads. Register by Sept 11.
Partners in Art Evening – Tuesday, September 19, 7-9pm (FREE) – Join our art-support group to share one or two artworks, any medium, in any stage, for advice and feedback. RSVP in advance.
Nature Journaling Club – Saturday, September 30, 10am-12pm (FREE) – Drop-in with your sketchbook and art supplies to sketch in our gardens, then share your drawings with the group. This program is held outdoors and will be canceled in the event of rain.

The Farther Afield exhibit runs September 1–30, 2023 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are First Thursday (April-September) 12-9pm, Thursday 12-6pm, Friday 12-9pm, Saturday 12-6pm, and Sunday 12-6pm (closed on October 1, 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 curator Alexandra Schmeling at hello@alexandraschmeling.com.

Artwork credit: Detail of “Jardin des Plantes, Paris” by Alexandra Schmeling

“12 Elements of Nature” GWW Call for Entry Deadline
2023-08-27 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Del Ray Artisans Members Only Gallery Without Walls Call for Entry
12 Elements of Nature at VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital
September 18, 2023 – January 27, 2024
Entry deadline: Sunday, August 27, 2023 by midnight
Most of us are aware of the four classics elements of nature: Earth, Water, Wind, and Fire. Did you know there are eight other elements “used to simplify the complexity of nature”? We invite artists to explore all 12 elements of nature: Earth, Water, Wind, Fire, as well as Thunder, Ice, Force, Time, Flower, Shadow, Light, and Moon. Utilize one, or more, to create 2D works of nature themed art.
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: Detail of “Water Hues” by Eileen M. O’Brien

"Farther Afield" Artwork Drop Off
2023-08-27 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, Farther Afield. Artwork drop off is Sunday, August 27 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 Alexandra Schmeling at Hello@alexandraschmeling.com.

Artwork credit: “Jardin des Plantes, Paris” by Alexandra Schmeling

"Treasures of the DMV" Artwork Pick Up
2023-08-27 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, Treasures of the DMV.

Questions? Contact the curator Ronald Reel at reellawyer@gmail.com.

Artwork credit: “TREASURES OF THE DMV” by Ronald Reel

Nature Journaling Club
2023-08-26 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 every month. 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. Join the “Nature Journaling Club at Del Ray Artisans” Facebook Group to stay informed on weather cancellations, plus share your sketches!
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 of pinks and larkspur by Meredith D’Amore

Partners in Art Evening (8/22 Cancelled)
2023-08-22 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The Tuesday, August 22, 2023 meeting has been cancelled. Please join us on Tuesday, September 19 from 7-9pm.
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

Creative Book Club – “Brunelleschi’s Dome” by Ross King
2023-08-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Book: “Brunelleschi’s Dome” by Ross King
Facilitator: Rusty Lynn
Meeting Date: Saturday, August 19 from 10am-12pm
(Drop-in, set a reminder in Eventbrite)
The book for our August 19th discussion is “Brunelleschi’s Dome” by Ross King. The book is about the construction of the largest dome ever built by the 15th century. It had been a challenge for the architects and builders of the cathedral in Florence for several hundred years. So when Brunelleschi devised a plan for the building and won the job, it became a central concern in the city. Ross King is an art historian who delves into the art, as well as the political and social challenges of the period. I have read a number of his books, and I am sure whoever gets into reading it will be rewarded in ways they never expected.
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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Life Drawing Session - Gesture and Short Pose
2023-08-15 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: Detail of “To The Beat” by Katherine Rand

2024 Exhibits Committee Meeting
2023-08-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This time is reserved for the 2024 exhibit committee to meet. No other events may be scheduled Monday, August 14 from 7-9pm.
The gallery is open to the public to view the Treasures of the DMV art exhibit through August 26, 2023 during regular gallery hours:

Thursday 12-6pm
Friday 12-9pm
Saturday 12-6pm
Sunday 12-6pm (closed on Sunday, August 27)

HalloWEIRD Art Market Applications Due
2023-08-13 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Call for Artists
Del Ray Artisans’ HalloWEIRD Art Market
Application deadline extended to Sunday, August 13, 2023 by midnight
Apply now for the 2nd annual HalloWEIRD outdoor art market centered around the theme: Halloween. Showcase your spooky, creepy, crawly, disturbing, goth pieces or focus on the upbeat, fun side of the season (costumes, hot cider, hay rides, autumn colors, etc). This is an outdoor, family-friendly, rain-or-shine event in Colasanto Park, adjoining Del Ray Artisans gallery, on Saturday, September 23, 2023 from 10am to 4pm.
Details and Application

Pie Contest, Indoor Picnic, and Summer Member Meeting
2023-08-13 17:00 - 19:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Join fellow artists and friends at the annual Pie Contest, Indoor Picnic, and Summer Member Meeting on Sunday, August 13 from 5-7pm. Prepare a savory or sweet entry for the pie contest or sign up to be a judge and get the first sample of the delicacies. There will be prizes for both sweet and savory pies.
In addition to the Annual Pie Contest, we’ll have an indoor picnic and enjoy (after the pie contest judging) pies for dessert!
Preceding the picnic will be a short meeting with information on upcoming events and the fall exhibit schedule. Plan to be there for fun and comradery.
Please RSVP by August 10 to help the organizers plan the food and beverage quantities. Members who RSVP will be entered into a drawing for prizes.

“Farther Afield” Call for Entry Deadline
2023-08-10 23:50 - 23:59 | Online
Call for Entry ~ Open to area artists
Farther Afield
Exhibit Dates: September 1–30, 2023
Digital entry deadline: Thursday, August 10, 2023 by midnight
Take us on a trip to experience sights far and wide through your eyes and experience (real or wishful). Depict a scene from a day trip or from halfway across the world—the distance is up to you! Looking forward to experiencing new cities, states, countries, and continents through your art. All media are welcome.
The exhibit is open to all area artists. Del Ray Artisans members pay a discounted entry fee.
Entry Details & Form

Artwork credit: “Jardin des Plantes, Paris” by Alexandra Schmeling

ONLINE: Board Meeting - Cancelled
2023-08-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Online
