Spring Member Meeting & Benefit Program: Photographing Your Artwork for Exhibit Submissions
2026-05-21 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
On Thursday, May 21 starting at 6pm, join your fellow Del Ray Artisans members for the spring member meeting and a FREE member benefit program.
The event will begin with pizza, refreshments, and a brief meeting, then continue into the program. If you would like to contribute refreshments (thank you!), please reach out to the Membership Director, Kara Macek, at Membership@DelRayArtisans.org.
Member Benefit Program: Photographing Your Artwork for Exhibit Submissions
Strong images can make all the difference when applying to exhibitions. In this presentation, we’ll focus on simple, effective techniques to help you capture clear, professional-looking photos of your artwork—using tools you likely already have. We will cover:

How to use natural and artificial lighting to avoid glare and shadows
Simple setups for photographing 2D and 3D artwork
Camera and smartphone tips for sharper, more accurate images
Framing, cropping, and background choices that highlight your work
Common mistakes that can hurt your submissions—and how to avoid them

Whether you’re submitting to juried exhibitions, online galleries, or grant opportunities, having strong documentation of your work is essential. This workshop is designed for artists of all experience levels and will emphasize accessible, budget-friendly approaches.
Members are welcome to bring questions and examples of their work for discussion. We look forward to seeing you at the gallery!

Partners in Art Evening (RSVP in Advance)
2026-05-19 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. Donations ($1-3) are greatly appreciated. Contact Michele Reday Cook (mredaycook@gmail.com) with questions.
View Upcoming Meetings

Live From Your Studio - Connect with fellow DRA artists
2026-05-17 14:00 - 15:30 | Online
Live From Your Studio is a free, members-only, virtual gathering where Del Ray Artisans members can connect from their art-making space. This virtual event will take place monthly on the third Sunday of the month (excluding December) over Zoom. Artists are encouraged (but not required) to join from their studios and make art during the session. These events will allow members to paint and create art together, and forge deeper connections to other members.
RSVP at least a week before the gathering to help organizers prepare. Zoom connection information will be emailed to you two days before the gathering. If you have any questions, please contact organizer Laura Flynn Geissel at flynnmail52@proton.me and Membership Director Kara Macek at membership@delrayartisans.org.
Not a member? It’s easy to join Del Ray Artisans. Artist ($30-$110) and Patron ($250+) level memberships enjoy exhibition and program privileges. Supporter level memberships ($40/year) do not have exhibition privileges, but supporters have program privileges and may participate in programs such as this one!
Although this is a free event, as a nonprofit organization, donations are always welcome to support our mission of promoting art for the benefit of artists and the community. Donate online or at the gallery.
RSVP Now

POSTPONED: Applique for Mending and Decoration
2026-05-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop has been postponed to June 21st.
Instructor: Syd Grossman
Date/Time: Sunday, May 17, 10am to Noon
Cost: $25 per DRA member/$36 per non-member, plus a $5 supply fee
Class size: 5-15 participants
(Register by May 13)
Applique is the process of applying material to the surface of another material for decoration (or mending!). Learn how to hand-sew patches onto ripped or worn areas, or to decorate clothes.
Applique was originally used as a way to strengthen clothing and moved into artistic endeavors with quilting, banners, wall hangings and more! This practice transcends cultures and can be found in examples around the world throughout time.
We will go through the process of choosing the best fabrics for your item and hand-sew the patches on. The applique patches will be simple, but examples will be available for how you can create art out of a variety of shapes.
Ideas for clothing or items to bring are: Shirts with logos you’d like to cover, pants with wear or rips in the knees, a jacket you’d like to personalize.
Register Now

Image credit: Syd Grossman

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

Radical Sewing Club-ALX
2026-05-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Welcome to Radical Sewing Club-ALX!
Started in LA by Scout Quiquivix, the Alexandria chapter is a monthly drop-in style meeting where you can learn clothing repair, hand and machine sewing, or bring your own project to work on with the community.
Radical Sewing Club is about more than sewing–it’s a space to reimagine craft outside of capitalism, to resist exploitation and oppression, and to stitch together a world based on care and solidarity. All who share these values are welcome.
Registration: Registration is not required, but you may set a reminder in Eventbrite.
Cost: Recommended donation of $10 or pay what you can. No one turned away for lack of funds! Monetary donations will be split between Del Ray Artisans (our wonderful hosts) and Radical Sewing Club for continued materials.
Have materials to donate? We welcome fabric (full cuts and scraps alike), thread, needles, interfacing, embroidery hoops, buttons, pins, trims, lace, and functional zippers.
Contact: radicalsewingclubalx@pm.me or @radicalsewingclub_alx on Instagram
View All Upcoming Dates

Volunteer in the Gardens
2026-05-16 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 Jenny 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 meets once a month on a weekend day from 9am-11am. In July and August, we’ll meet an hour earlier (8am-10am) to avoid the heat. Our 2026 dates are:

Saturday, May 16, 9:00 to 11:00 am
Saturday, June 13, 9:00 to 11:00 am
Sunday, July 12, 8:00 to 10:00 am (earlier due to heat)
Saturday, August 15, 8:00 to 10:00 am (earlier due to heat)
Saturday, September 19, 9:00 to 11:00 am (tidy up the garden for Art on the Avenue)
Saturday, October 17, 9:00 to 11:00 am

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.

"USA at 250" Call for Entry Deadline
2026-05-15 23:59 | Online
Call for Entry ~ Open to area artists
USA at 250
Exhibit Dates: June 5–28, 2026
Digital entry deadline extended to Friday, May 15, 2026 by midnight
“The Many Faces of Washington” by Karen Feeley
Capture the spirit of our nation: its past, present, and its promise for the future. In an era where it may be easy to focus on the negative, we encourage artists to create works that focus on the positive, highlighting pivotal moments, progress, resilience, or the richness that continues to shape the American experience.
The exhibit is open to all area artists. Del Ray Artisans members pay a discounted entry fee.
Entry Details & Form

“Paws and Kinship” GWW Call for Entry Deadline
2026-05-14 23:59 | Online
Del Ray Artisans Members Only
Gallery Without Walls Call for Entry
Paws and Kinship at VCA Old Town Animal Hospital
June 8, 2026 – May 29, 2027
Entry deadline: Thursday, May 14, 2026 by midnight
“Opal” by Rod Whyte
Seeking 2D artwork that explores the emotional bond between ourselves and animals. Come celebrate the creatures you share your life with!
NOTE: The Paws and Kinship art exhibit is at VCA Old Town (not VCA Alexandria). Due to new guidelines for a fear-free space, we cannot accept artwork that has realistic depictions of dogs, cats, and/or birds. Stylized or abstract pieces with these subjects are allowed.
Must be a Del Ray Artisans member to enter (join Del Ray Artisans now); 2-dimensional works only. No entry fee; pieces previously shown are welcome.
Entry Details & Form

Life Drawing – Gesture and Short Poses Session
2026-05-14 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-05 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Drop-in and practice figure drawing on select Tuesday and Thursday 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 $10 for Del Ray Artisans members and $15 for non-members. If you have any questions or would like to participate as a model for our sessions, please contact LifeDrawing@DelRayArtisans.org.
View artwork from past DRA Figure Drawing Sessions on Instagram! Tag #dralifedraw or @dralifedraw for your work to be featured.
Register Now | View Upcoming Sessions

Artwork credit: “To The Beat” by Katherine Rand

Board of Directors Meeting (ONLINE)
2026-05-12 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 Margaret Slipek at Secretary@DelRayArtisans.org at least four days in advance of the meeting to be included on the agenda and receive the Zoom session link.

Del Ray Urban Sketchers @ St. Elmo's Coffee Pub
2026-05-10 13:00 - 15:00 | St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub, 2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
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 St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub (2300 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301) 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.
Del Ray Urban Sketchers operates on a drop-in basis and meets on the second Sunday of the month (except not in July, August, and December) at St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub in Del Ray, as well as on the third Thursday of most months at a time and location that is varied (view upcoming dates).
This program is FREE! Donations appreciated. Contact the organizer, Joan Bickelhaupt (joanbickelhaupt@gmail.com), with any questions.
RSVP via Eventbrite | View Upcoming Dates

Photo courtesy of Joan Bickelhaupt

Junk Journaling Workshop (Postponed to 6/6)
2026-05-10 10:00 - 13:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop has been postponed until Saturday, June 6, 10am-1pm.
Instructor: Azita R. Houshiar
Date/Time: Sunday, May 10, 10am-1pm
Cost: $40 Del Ray Artisans member / $50 Non-member; plus $10 supply fee
Class size: 5-12 participants
(Register by May 6)
Collage by Azita Houshiar
Come to play and experiment freely, and leave with pages started and ideas you can continue exploring long after the class ends. Junk Journaling blends the art of collage with the practice of journaling, offering a playful, low-pressure way to explore creativity without worrying about perfection. The emphasis is on curiosity, intuition, experimentation, and discovering your own expressive style.
In this workshop, you’ll learn practical techniques for collage, layering, and composition, and receive guidance on using found paper, packaging, tags, embellishments, and everyday “junk” to create layered, expressive journal pages that reflect your personal perspective and storytelling style.
Please bring your own journal. If you don’t have one yet, high-quality paper will be provided so you can experiment and create during class. All other supplies will be included, such as paper, ephemera, stickers, tape, glue, and basic tools. You’re also welcome to bring old photographs, mementos, or personal collage materials you enjoy using, especially items that hold meaning for you.
This beginner-friendly class is open to teenagers and adults of all skill levels.
Register Now

Image credit: Azita R. Houshiar

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

Spring Art Market 2026
2026-05-09 09:00 - 15:00 | Mount Vernon Recreation Center Athletic Fields, 2701 Commonwealth Ave, Alexandria, 22301, United States
Photo Album
Del Ray Artisans’ Spring Art Market is on Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 9am-3pm in the Mount Vernon Recreation Center fields adjoining Del Ray Artisans gallery (2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA).
This market that gives you the chance to purchase original handcrafted artwork from talented local artists in a wide range of media including ceramics, fiber, jewelry, mixed media, paper, photography, and more.
The event is held rain or shine, FREE to browse, and open to the public. Drop in anytime during the event to meet the artists and enjoy the outdoor market.
The featured artists are:

Jordana Adelman, Curious by Nature
Sydney Alderman, Agnes Elmwood
Bridget Anthony-Hlioui, Blue Fig Studio
ileana Barajas, Made By Montse
Victoria Barnes Photography
Denise Bentley, BFabricArt
Vanessa Brown, VT Brown
Deborah Dillard, Ludic Lillian
Patricia Figliola, Aisling MagickArt
Linda Gaines, Geeky Girl Gaines Crafts
Nicole Gauvin, made by Knerq
Julia Glatfelter
Walter Gordon Art
Anna Hamilton, House of Dandylion
Jorge Henriquez Art
Robin Hunter-Reid, Moxie & Magic
Mackenzie Jones, Sketches and Sawdust
Olga Kardonova, Drift By Art
Trisha Karsadi, Coastal Driftwood
Arham Khan Art
Katherine Kirby, Kamandrin Krafts
Haddy Kreie, Haddy K Art and Design
Christine Lederman, Bead Therapy
Xianling Liu, X.Liu.Art
Ginny Loving, Horrible Darlings
Diana Manchak, designs in clay
Liz Martinez
Isabel Montenegro, Bel’s Creations
Emmanuel Ndenguebi, Kloppervok Krafts
Nick Neakrase, Fairyton Garden Works
Miyoung Obenschain, Purple Cardinal Arts LLC
Vega Overby, Vega Star Ceramics
Margalit Palermo
Morgan Parr
Mary Pike, Recycled Bag Lady
Laura Ramirez Drain, Artbylaura
Tiara Safic-Martin Art
Suzan Shumate, Flora, Fauna, and Fun
Raven Troupe, Crafty Colanah LLC
Joyce Wagner, Reinvented Elegance
Christina Ward
Tamara Wilkerson, WiRealm by Tamara

Plus step inside Del Ray Artisans gallery to see the Alexandria City High School 2026 Titan Student Art Exhibition (May 1–23, 2026). Del Ray Artisans, founded in 1992, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote art for the benefit of artists and the community.

First Thursday: Extended Gallery Hours (Open 12-9pm)
2026-05-07 12:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
In 2026, Del Ray Artisans will have special extended gallery hours on the First Thursday of the month from April through June. Come check out the exhibit today from 12-9pm! The gallery is free to browse and all ages are welcome.
From May 1–23, 2026, Del Ray Artisans gallery is hosting the Alexandria City High School Titan Student Art Exhibition and shining a spotlight on our city’s flourishing young artists.

First Thursday was a former program of the Del Ray Business Association. In 2026, Del Ray Citizens Association has assumed responsibility for organizing and presenting this beloved neighborhood tradition. The 2026 First Thursday dates and themes are:

May 7 — It’s A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood sponsored by Alexandria Hyundai
June 4 — Field Day sponsored by the Del Ray Farmers Market
July 2 — America 250 sponsored by The Jen Walker Team

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

STEAM-tastic: Shrinky Dink Charms (Ages 14-Adult; Register ASAP)
2026-05-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Instructor: Victoria Walchak
Date/Time: Wednesday, May 6, 6-8pm
Cost: $30 Teen / $45 Adult Del Ray Artisans member / $55 Adult Non-member, plus a $10 supply fee
Class size: 10-20 participants
(Register in advance; Walk-ins welcome if space permits)
Honey, I shrunk the art!! Join in for a teen focused, family friendly hands on Shrinky Dinks Charms workshop. participants will create designs on shrinkable polystyrene, heat them until they shrink to about a third of their original size, and then glaze them with a UV resin. These can then be made into backpack charms, keyrings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets and more! Small works bring big fun!
Participants will create miniature works of art using shrinkable polystyrene and use jewelry findings and small hand tools to craft small personal art objects. All supplies and tools are provided.
Register Now

STEAM-tastic @ DRA – Come join us at Del Ray Artisans for interactive classes about Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM), taught by professionals from each field. The discount ticket price per child is made possible with support from the City of Alexandria through the FY2026 Annual Arts Program Grant.

View information about the facility and policies at the bottom of the Youth and Family-Friendly Programs page.

Playing with Resin Workshop (POSTPONED to 6/21)
2026-05-04 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 4, 6-9pm
Cost: $40 Del Ray Artisans member / $50 Non-member; plus a $10 Supply Fee
Class size: 6-12 participants
(Register in advance to guarantee a spot; walk-ins welcome, space permitting.)

This workshop has been postponed until June 21st.
Learn the ins and outs of prepping for and mixing resin, and how to use it as an adhesive, a covering, or the main medium. There’s lots of creative time during this 3-hour workshop… No need to rush, which is one of the first lessons in using resin! All supplies are provided, but feel free to bring personal embellishments for your piece(s).
This workshop does not get into using dyes with resin or building big molds to create one-of-a-kind resined tables (as seen on YouTube), but this workshop will provide you with a good understanding of how resin works so you can be bold enough to take the next steps in your creative interests.
Although the class is listed for 3 hours, you can leave once you have finished your creations. Some students finish very quickly while others take the whole 3 hours to create – there is plenty of time for each person to enjoy the creative process while not feeling rushed. You’ll leave your finished masterpiece(s) to set at the gallery at the end of the workshop, and pick them up during gallery hours later in the week.
The workshop is designed for adults. Children ages 16-17 may participate with parental permission. Children ages 12-15 may participate only with a co-participating adult guardian (guardian must contact instructor in advance).

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

Partners in Art (RSVP in Advance)
2026-05-04 14:00 - 16:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
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.
RSVP to Mila Mateu (milaenartes@gmail.com) and Suzanne Tillman (zannet@verizon.net) for details before the day of the meeting.
View Upcoming Meetings

Pictures at an Alexandria Exhibition Online Auction
2026-05-04 - 2026-05-31 | Online
View the Auction
The timeless and inextricable relationship between music and art is clearly evidenced in the Pictures at an Alexandria Exhibition concert performance and online art auction. This is a collaborative project between the Del Ray Artisans (DRA), the Symphony Orchestra of Northern Virginia (SONOVA), and the Symphony Orchestra League of Alexandria (SOLA).
For this exhibit, artists created pieces inspired by one or more of the following selections of music:

Grand Canyon Suite, Ferde Grofé ~ Movement 4 ~ Sunset
Dances of the Knights from Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Ballet
Billy the Kid Suite, Aaron Copland ~ Movements 6, 7, 8: VI Celebration, VII Billy’s Death, VIII The Open Prairie
Mississippi Suite, Ferde Grofé ~ Movement 3 ~ Mardi Gras

The artworks selected for the exhibit will be sold at an online auction between May 4–31, 2026. View the artwork and place your bids on the auctions website. Proceeds benefit each artist, DRA, SONOVA, and SOLA.
On May 30 at 3pm, SONOVA will present a live performance of the four musical compositions that inspired the artwork at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center at Northern Virginia Community College*, Alexandria Campus. Selected artworks from the auction will be featured digitally during the concert. Tickets are available on the SONOVA website.
DRA is proud to partner with the Symphony Orchestra League of Northern Virginia and the Symphony Orchestra League of Alexandria in promoting music and visual arts.

*Northern Virginia Community College does not sponsor or endorse this event.

DIY Ukulele Workshop (SOLD OUT)
2026-05-03 18:00 - 20:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop is sold out. Registration is now closed.
Instructor: Khushi Bhansali
Date/Time: Sunday, May 3, 6-8pm
Cost: $20 Del Ray Artisans member / $30 Non-member; plus $30 supply fee
Class size: 5-20 participants
(Register by May 2)
Hand-paint and assemble your own ukulele to keep or give as a unique, one-of-a-kind handmade gift.
The class begins with a quick overview of the ukulele’s parts and then participants will personalize their ukuleles with paint inspired by snowflakes, spring, or something of their choice. After the decorating is finished, the instructor will guide participants on how to put the ukulele together and string the instruments. We’ll end with a beginner lesson on ukulele chords!
All materials are provided.
Register Now

Artwork credit: Ukuleles by Khushi Bhansali

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

“Take a Seat for Alexandria Library” community art project
2026-05-03 12:00 - 18:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
From April 1 through May 5, Del Ray Artisans gallery is hosting the display of two artful chairs which are a part of the “Take a Seat for Alexandria Library” community art project. The chairs are by Del Ray Artisans member Joyce Wagner and local artist Mal Jones. The chairs are featured in an online auction (April 1-May 17) to benefit the Alexandria Library Foundation.
Del Ray Artisans gallery is located 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 (closed May 24-31, 2026).
On Sunday, May 3 from 12-6pm will be the last chance to see these two chairs during regular gallery hours.

Mindful Acrylic Pour: A Creative Practice in Letting Go (SOLD OUT)
2026-05-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop is full. Registration is now closed.
Instructor: Yvette Trapani
Date/Time: Sunday, May 3, 10am-Noon
Cost: $45 Del Ray Artisans member / $55 Non-member; plus $20 supply fee
Class size: 8-12 participants
(Register in advance)
In this relaxing, hands-on workshop, participants will be introduced to mindfulness, meditation, & flow, then invited to experience mindfulness through the flowing art of acrylic pour painting. As colors move and blend across the canvas, the process invites you to slow down, stay present with the flow, and simply observe what unfolds. No artistic experience is needed.
All supplies will be provided. Participants will leave their paintings at the Del Ray Artisan gallery to allow time for the paintings to set. Art pieces can be picked during gallery hours.
Register Now

Artwork credit: Yvette Trapani

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

CANCELLED: Sewing Machine 101 (BYO Sewing Machine)
2026-05-02 18:00 - 19:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This workshop has been cancelled.
Instructor: Syd Grossman
Date/Time: Saturday, May 2, 6-7:30pm
Cost: $25 per DRA member/$35 per non-member
Class size: 5-8 participants
(Register by April 28)
Learn the fundamentals of how to use your sewing machine, whether you’ve just bought it or haven’t used it in 20 years.
Sewing machines open up a world of possibilities to make or mend your clothes or decor, and create beautiful art with fabric. Starting up a sewing machine is a big, wonderful first step that can come with a few hitches. Come learn about your sewing machine from making first stitches to troubleshooting when something goes wrong.
We will review: threading your machine, winding the bobbin (if available on your machine), installing the bobbin, starting your first stitches, the differences between stitches (and which ones do you really need?), and troubleshooting errors.
If you have your manual please bring it, otherwise please contact Syd after registration with your machine’s make and model (ex: Brother C6000i, Kenmore 158.1595281, Pfaff Hobby 301) or pictures of the machine if you’re not sure.
Students must bring their own sewing machine and manual, or let Syd know what kind of machine they’re bringing.
Register Now

Image credit: Syd Grossman

STEAM-tastic @ DRA – Come join us at Del Ray Artisans for interactive classes about Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM), taught by professionals from each field! Geared toward youth, each lesson has a short talk or demonstration and a hands-on craft project. Del Ray Artisans’ STEAM-tastic workshops are made possible with support from the City of Alexandria through the FY2026 Annual Arts Program Grant.

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

Alexandria City High School 2026 Titan Student Art Exhibition Opening Reception
2026-05-01 19:00 - 21:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Alexandria City High School 2026 Titan Student Art Exhibition
May 1–23, 2026
Opening Reception: Friday, May 1 from 7–9pm
Discover Alexandria’s next generation of local legends at the Alexandria City High School (ACHS) 2026 Titan Student Art Exhibition. In this showcase, Del Ray Artisans’ gallery offers you to experience student creativity firsthand. Stop by to support and see the creative direction behind the artists of tomorrow. This annual collaboration, bridging our school and community through the arts, runs from May 1 through May 23, 2026, reflecting the vibrant spirit and diverse perspectives of our youth and featuring curated works spanning a wide range of media, including drawing, painting, ceramics, mixed media, digital media, and photography.
The exhibition kicks off with a celebratory opening reception on Fri., May 1, between 7–9 p.m. The community is invited to meet the curators: Del Ray Artisans’ Youth Programs Director (Viki Walchak), ACHS Visual Arts Department teachers (Hannah Brownell, Tabitha Eller, Anna Huerta, Pamela Johnson, Victoria Krieger, Lauren Pierson, and Marisa St. Louis), and Career & Technical Education (CTE) teachers (Maria Ivanova and Taki Sidley). Thank you to MCD Mateos McDonald’s for their generous donation for the reception. Mark your calendar or set a reminder through Eventbrite at achs-2026-student-exhibition.eventbrite.com.
The evening will be a vibrant celebration of student creativity, featuring:

Meet the Artists: An opportunity to engage with student creators and some of the ACHS Visual Arts and CTE faculty.
Live Performances: Chamber music performances led by ACHS Performing Arts teacher, Kevin Pace.
Fundraising & Fun: The ACHS National Art Honor Society will sell unique student-made items and offer craft activities for all ages to raise funds. Additionally, student artists will be on-site offering custom henna tattoos.
Art Awards: Presentation of the Juror, ACHS Superintendent Choice, and Administrator Choice Awards starting at 7:30pm.

Thank you to our jurors (Kay Brady, Courtney Pippin-Mathur, Ted Reed, Irby Vinson, and Diane Waggoner) for their time and dedication to our students. Special shoutout to our Superintendent, Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt, and Campus Administrators, Mr. Lance Harrell and Mr. Ashley Carter Sinclair, for selecting artwork award winners for the ACHS Superintendent and Administrator Choice Awards. We would like to recognize the students, Rozalia Finkelstein, for assisting with the press release, and Joel Montes and Tess Clarke for designing the exhibition showcard and gallery banner. Thank you to the above-mentioned and all who are participating in and contributing to the exhibition’s success, providing students with the experience and a platform to engage with the Alexandria community.
Save the dates for our creative programs and register in advance for our workshops in May:

Sewing Machine 101 Workshop – May 2: 6–7:30 p.m.
Mindful Acrylic Pour: A Creative Practice in Letting Go – May 3: 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
DIY Ukulele Workshop – May 3: 6–8 p.m.
Playing with Resin Workshop – May 4: 6–9 p.m.
Shrinky Dink Charms Workshop (Ages 14+) – May 6: 6–8 p.m.
Junk Journaling Workshop – May 10: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Applique for Mending and Decoration – May 17: 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Neurographic Art Workshop – Teen Edition! – May 23: 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Plus don’t miss Del Ray Artisans’ Spring Art Market on Saturday, May 9, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. in the Mount Vernon Recreation Center fields adjoining Del Ray Artisans gallery.
Made possible with support from the City of Alexandria
The Alexandria City High School Titan Student Art Exhibition runs May 1-23, 2026 at Del Ray Artisans gallery in the Colasanto Center, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301. Gallery hours are Thurs. noon–6 p.m. (May 7 noon–9 p.m.), Fri. noon–9 p.m., Sat. noon–6 p.m., and Sun. noon–6 p.m. (closed May 25-June 3).
The student exhibition is made possible with support from the City of Alexandria and a generous donation from Genesis Inspiration Foundation. The gallery is free, open to the public, and accessible. For more information, contact the Director of Youth Programs Victoria Walchak at youth@delrayartisans.org and Director of Curating Amy Kitchin Hower at curating@delrayartisans.org.

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

Alexandria City High School 2026 Titan Student Art Exhibition at Del Ray Artisans Gallery
2026-05-01 - 2026-05-23 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States

Artist Appointments Only
2026-04-26 10:00 - 13:00, 2026-04-25 18:30 - 20:30 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
The gallery is closed to the public after 6pm on Saturday, April 25 and all day on Sunday, April 26 while the exhibit is taken down. This time is reserved for artists to pick up and drop off artwork. Contact the outgoing curators with any questions (contact info in the call for entry).
Unsold Artwork Pick Up
Saturday, April 25 from 6:30-8:30pm and Sunday, April 26 from 10am-1pm are reserved for artists to pick up their unsold artwork from the closing exhibit, Fast and Fabulous.

Accepted Artwork Drop Off
The remainder of the day on Sunday, April 26 is reserved for the installation of the ACHS 2026 Titan Student Art Exhibition.

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.

Closed to the Public
2026-04-26 - 2026-04-29 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
This time is reserved for the curator to arrange the upcoming exhibit.

Nature Journaling Club
2026-04-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22301, United States
Practiced by artists and naturalists alike, nature journaling is a centuries-old exercise in refining our powers of observation, appreciation for nature, drawing skills, and mindful presence. This group is open to all experience levels as we meet to sketch, connect, and learn together!
Del Ray Artisans’ Nature Journaling Club meets at 10am in front of Del Ray Artisans on the final Saturday morning of the month (except not in July, November, and December). 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 to our nonprofit arts organization are appreciated.
For more information, contact the coordinators: Stephanie Darlene Greenwald (stephanie@stephaniedarlene.com) and Meredith D’Amore (meredith.w.damore@gmail.com).
RSVP (Optional) | View Upcoming Dates

Artwork credit: Drawing by Meredith D’Amore

Alcove Gift Shop at Del Ray Artisans (3/6 - 4/25/2026)
2026-04-25 | 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 6 – April 25, 2026.
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. Gallery hours are Thursdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-9pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, and Sundays 12-6pm (closed on March 1, March 29, and April 26).
For more information, contact the curators Stephen Lally (slallypottery@gmail.com) and Rita Schooley (rlschooley@gmail.com).
