Del Ray Artisans

Press Releases

Del Ray Artisans sends an email announcement to members of the press every time a new DRA press release is issued. To be added to the "Media" mailing list (members of the press only please), contact .

2012

April 15, 2012 - Alexandria Art Market - Your monthly dose of art in the heart of Del Ray
Grand Opening 3rd season: May 5th, 2012 10-4pm, rain/shine. Market Dates: 6/2/12, 7/7/12, 8/4/12, 9/1/12, 11/3/12. Alexandria Art Market is embarking on its 3rd season! It will be held the 1st Saturday of May, June, July, August, September, November 2012, 10-4pm rain/shine; multicultural music. NEW! APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR NON-DRA MEMBERS!

April 15, 2012 - 4th Annual Yard Sale at Del Ray Artisans
Saturday, May 26, 8 AM-2 PM, FREE admission and open to the public. Need that one of kind unique gift? Someone else's trash is another's treasure. Stop by the Del Ray Artisans yard sale in the gallery (2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria), rain or shine! Profits support Del Ray Artisans.

April 8, 2012 - Art on the Edge - All-media, All-DC Area Artist Show
Del Ray Artisans (DRA) is pleased to announce Art on the Edge, an all-media art show featuring DC-area artists. It's Del Ray Artisans' own "fringe festival." Artists explore and create "edgy" images, photographs, 3D constructions, or sculpture inspired by their outer creative limits and perhaps drawn from sports, clothes, music, art, performance, food, lifestyle, violent nature, animals, living spaces and so on, led by their imaginations.

April 7, 2012 - T.C. Williams High School Art Department's 15th Annual Student Art Show
Del Ray Artisans and the T.C. Williams High School Art Department jointly present the 15th Annual Student Art Show at the Del Ray Artisans gallery. The exhibit will feature the work of members of the National Art Honor Society (NAHS).

February 24, 2012 - Don't Miss Del Ray Artisans Childhood Memories Show, Plus a Special Clay Portrait Workshop
Childhood memories are often the inspiration for art. Memories are endless: an experience, a trip, a gathering, an animal, a poem, a person or a place that brings one back to a childhood memory. Works by artists in this show are inspired by their childhoods. Show exhibits April 6-29; opening reception April 6, 7-10 p.m.

February 24, 2012 - "XX" Celebrating Del Ray Artisans' 20 years on "The Avenue"
The Del Ray Artisans 20th Anniversary Committee invites the community to join in our celebration of 20 years on "The Avenue" with past and present masterpieces. This DRA member only show runs from March 2 - April 1, 2012 and will be juried from outside our DRA family of members.

2011

December 14, 2011 - Love, Politics & Scrabble: The Games People Play
This juried show explores the numerous games people play in life, whether power, Monopoly, manipulation, poker, Angry Birds, baseball, or gossip. The community is invited to 'get their game on' at Art Games on February 10 and Game Talks on February 25. The exhibit and Marketplace, with artful Valentine Cards, runs February 3-26, 2012.

December 14, 2011 - Artist Warriors: Post Apocalyptic Adventure
This show is all about letting your inner survivalist and your art warrior imagination go wild. Surviving artists document this inhospitable world with art and fashions to move through it. Apocalyptic era clothing; Two- and Three-dimensional artwork. Opening reception January 6 at 7pm at Del Ray Artisans gallery; show runs through January 29.

November 18, 2011 - It's All About the Little Things, Del Ray Artisans All Member Showcase
This December Del Ray Artisans gallery will be filled with small, affordable works of art available for holiday giving and enjoying. The member exhibition features art that is 8"x10" or smaller. Opening reception on Friday, December 9 at 7pm.

October 7, 2011 - Del Ray Artisans 2011 Holiday Market
16th annual Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market offers handmade work from 20 local artists and Bake Sale to benefit Rebuilding Together Alexandria. Reception is Friday, December 2 (6 - 9pm) with hot food from a local restaurant. The Market continues on Saturday, December 3 (10am - 4pm) and Sunday, December 4 (Noon - 4pm). Free admission.

September 11, 2011 - Del Ray Dozenz Photography Show
Come experience this all-photography show that highlights the skills of DRA members. This exhibition builds on the success of the previous photography shows with an expanded cadre of participants. Join us at the reception (Friday, November 4, 7-10pm). A variety of subjects (from landscapes, abstracts to florals) and different approaches to photography (digital and macro, traditional color and black & white photography) are presented.

September 6, 2011 - Exploring Watercolor and the Figure workshop
Join local artist Diana Gamerman as she demonstrates painting the figure in watercolor. A short talk on different types of watercolor paint, mediums, paper and brushes will be followed by a chance for participants to experiment with these different materials as we paint from a nude model. Ideal for beginners and those who want a refresher on using watercolor. Workshop on Wednesday, October 19, 2-5pm. All supplies provided. Register in advance: TheDelRayArtisans.org/watercolor

September 2, 2011 - Get Sparked! Art inspired by writing art exhibit
Each participating artist received one written inspiration piece, then created new art using the assigned story or poem as a jumping off point. Also, Greenbriar East Elementary students created artwork inspired by selected writers. Show:
October 7-30, 2011. Opening reception: October 7. SPARK reading: October 14. Student reception: October 21. Show and events are free and open to the public.

August 29, 2011 - Collage with Lori K. Gordon
Collage workshop at Del Ray Artisans (Alexandria VA) by nationally recognized, Mississippi Gulf Coast artist Lori K. Gordon. Register for one or both days: October 29-30 from 9-4pm. Day one: Small-scale organic collages. Day 2: Larger scale collage. Registration required. For details, visit www.TheDelRayArtisans.org/collage.

August 8, 2011 - Retakes and Transformations: Art from everyday life
From September 2 through October 2, DRA members' artwork—delving into habits, routines, favorite things and surroundings—will be showcased at the gallery. Join us at the opening reception on Friday, September 2 from 7-10pm. Artwork is for sale and a special "Art for everyday life" market is featured.

June 30, 2011 - States of Mind
Join Kimberley Bush, Ellyn Ferguson, Lesley Hall, Fransi Kaye, Katherine Rand, Gloria Vestal, and Tracy Wilkerson as they showcase encaustics, abstract art, figurative works, stained glass, and mixed media artwork. Reception is August 5 (7-10pm); the Silent Auction and show run through August 28.

June 6, 2011 - Made In The U. S. A.
Del Ray Artisans will be celebrating Independence Day and the month of July with artwork inspired by U.S. people, places and/or things. Artists are asked to create artwork with U.S.-made materials. Art-To-Go (matted/shrink-wrapped) work encouraged and all artwork available for pickup when purchased. Join us at the opening reception (Friday July 1st, 7-10pm).

May 14, 2011 - 3rd Annual Yard Sale (indoors)
3rd Annual Yard Sale (indoors) - Saturday, May 21, 8 AM - 2 PM. Need that one of kind item that someone else has donated. We have GREAT JUNK and the gallery needs new lighting, so stop by and see what we are all about. Rain or shine because it's inside the gallery. Did I say? - it's FREE admission!

May 1, 2011 - Drawing Inspiration from the Figure
Drawing Inspiration from the Figure (June 3-26) at the Del Ray Artisans gallery showcases DRA members' artwork inspired by the human form. Join us at the opening reception (Friday June 3rd, 7-10pm) for an art supply raffle and an exciting interpretive dance performance. Explore your creative side at a figure-themed Artist's Trading Card Party (Friday June 17th, 7-9pm).

April 11, 2011 - Alexandria Art Market
Alexandria Art Market is embarking on its 2nd season! It will be held the 1st Saturdays of May, June, July, August, September and November 2011,10-4 pm, rain or shine. The market boasts amazing artwork from local artists, music from multicultural musicians and great food from local restaurants. Located on the green space of the Del Ray Artisans' gallery in Colasanto Park. Entry is free and open to the public.

March 27, 2011 - 14th Annual T.C. Williams Student Art Show
Fifteen T.C. Williams High School students selected as this year's National Art Honor Society inductees will exhibit their work at Del Ray Artisans May 6-15. Many of these students will continue their art studies at the college level, and much of the work on exhibit was featured in their winning college admission portfolios. Come celebrate these rising stars at an opening reception on Friday, May 6th, 7-10pm.

March 22, 2011 - Del Ray Artisans' Summer Art Camp 2011
Join the Del Ray Artisans as we travel around the world in five days. From July 25-29, students ages 8-14 will experience an international expedition through the arts. Each day, 9 am - 4 pm, will feature projects and activities related to cultural traditions and artistic movements found throughout the world. Cost is $250 before 6/1/2011, $275 after 6/1/2011.

March 22, 2011 - Café Sketching Workshop
Café Sketching Workshop (May 10th & 24th, 2-5pm). Join us for this two-part workshop with Hamil Ma. During the first mock café session Hamil will demonstrate strategies for simplifying the figure while drawing quickly and fearlessly. For the second session we will head out to Mount Vernon Avenue for some actual café sketching. Register at: www.theDelRayArtisans.org/cafe.

March 17, 2011 - Ruthless Grip Poetry Series presents Three North Carolina Poets
3 North Carolina Poets (8-10 pm Friday April 8, 2011) Washington, D.C.'s Ruthless Grip Poetry Series visits Del Ray Artisans for National Poetry Month! Acclaimed North Carolina writers Lee Ann Brown, Chris Vitiello, and Dianne Timblin will read from their works.

March 16, 2011 - It's Only Rock 'n' Roll, But I Like It!
It's Only Rock 'n' Roll, But I Like It!, Del Ray Artisans' April show, pays homage to all things Rock 'n' Roll. All-media show, juried by Fierce Sonia and Jen Chappell, runs 4/1-5/1/11. Meet the artists at the opening reception, Friday April 1, 7-10 pm. A day of rock-themed movies is planned for Sunday, April 10 noon-9pm. An open mic lyric slam is planned for Sunday May 1, 2-4pm.

March 10, 2011 - Opening Reception of Beyond Form special exhibit at Signature Theatre
Del Ray Artisans in partnership with Signature Theatre presents an abstract art exhibit at Signature Theatre, opening Monday, March 14 with a reception at 7-10 pm in the Signature Theatre lobby (4200 Campbell Ave, Arlington, VA 22206). Please join us for beverages and light snacks, with harp music by Mark Owen Martin.

February 20, 2011 - Creating Outdoor Mosaic Garden Ornaments for Your Yard
Del Ray Artisans is pleased to announce the workshop Creating Outdoor Mosaic Garden Ornaments for Your Yard. This workshop will be held Saturday, May 14 from 11:30-3:30 PM and Sunday May 15 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 PM at the home of the instructor in Alexandria, VA. This workshop will be held outside rain or shine.

February 16, 2011 - Drawing the Clothed Figure with Alice Kale
In this workshop students will practice drawing the clothed model in a simplified manner intended to express the underlying human form. Initial gesture drawings will help students to understand and quickly capture a pose. We will then progress into a fully developed drawing of the clothed figure. All skill levels are welcome.

February 15, 2011 - Abstract Art Workshop: "Revealing What Is Hidden"
In conjunction with Del Ray Artisans' abstract art show Beyond Form: Expressing Art, the curators are offering a workshop/panel discussion entitled "Abstract Art: Revealing What Is Hidden," on Saturday, March 12 from 10 am to 1 pm. Featured panelists are artists John Blee and Beverly Ryan from The Art League; Paula B. Lantz from Del Ray Artisans and The Touchstone Gallery; and Rusty Lynn from Del Ray Artisans. Bring a finished or unfinished abstract art piece for constructive comment. Advance registration by March 8 is required.

February 13, 2011 - Alexandria Art Market 2011 ...your monthly dose of art in the heart of Del Ray
Del Ray Artisans is about to embark on its 2nd season of monthly outdoor art markets. These markets will give DRA members an opportunity to sell their original handmade art work and provide them with consistent exposure to the community. There will be six (6) monthly markets on the 1st Saturday of the month, from 10 am to 4 pm, rain or shine. The art market will be held on the lawn area of the Del Ray Artisans gallery.

February 9, 2011 - Beyond Form: Expressing Art
Opening with an artist reception on Friday, March 4th from 7 to 10 pm is Beyond Form: Expressing Art. This show is Del Ray Artisans' long-awaited all-media abstract show which was open to all area artists. DRA's art happening for March spotlights painting. The gallery will be buzzing with energy, beauty, truth, and color!

January 12, 2011 - Valentine's Day Mixer
Can't decide where to go for Valentine's Day? Join us on Monday, February 14 from 7-11 pm for a night of love-inspired artwork, mood music, great food and more! $10 per person; purchase tickets by January 30th.

January 10, 2011 - Duo Mixed-Media Art Workshop
Let your creativity shine! Transform everyday items into something amazing! Members: $10, non-members: $15, maximum 20. Instructors: Matthew Cuenca, multi-media artist, graduate of Parsons; Tracy Wilkerson, multi-media artist and found-art OOAK specialty card creator. The workshop is on Saturday, 2/5, from 12-2pm at the Del Ray Artisans gallery.

January 9, 2011 - Open Life Drawing 2011 Schedule Announced
Open life drawing continues at the Del Ray Artisans gallery. These sessions operate on a drop-in basis so there is no need to register in advance. Bring your supplies and join us at the gallery to draw or paint our live models. We don't supply easels - only plenty of chairs - but you are welcome to bring your own if you want to use one. All skill levels are welcome.

January 7, 2011 - Life Drawing Workshop: Gesture Drawing
Still looking for ways to get the most out of those short poses? During the workshop on February 16th, instructor Robin Croft will offer exercises and commentary intended to encourage a loose gestural approach to drawing the figure.

January 3, 2011 - Love Letters
Love Letters exhibits a collection of love-inspired artworks paired up with artist's love letters. Join us as we eavesdrop on the private conversation between artist and admiration. Reception is Friday, February 4, from 7-10 pm and runs through Sunday, February 27. Two creative workshops and a Valentine's Day event are also planned.

January 2, 2011 - FREE Life Drawing Session: Gesture Drawing Exercises
Learn how to capture the figure quickly and take advantage of dynamic short poses. Guest instructor Robin Croft will share an unusual exercise to encourage a fresh approach to seeing your subject. He'll offer suggestions while we work from a live model. The session is free and open to members and non-members, but RSVP by Saturday, January 8th to Katherine Rand at . Space is limited.

2010

December 14, 2010 - Beginning Calligraphy Workshop
Beginning Calligraphy Workshop, Saturday, January 8, 2011, 1-4 pm at Del Ray Artisans. Provides you with an opportunity to learn some basic calligraphy strokes and lettering with a calligraphy marker (yours to keep!). $20 members, $25 non-members. Minimum participants is 7, maximum is 16. [Register Online]

December 3, 2010 - Baby, It's Cold Outside
Celebrating all things good and bad about winter, meet the artists reception Friday, January 7th, 7-10pm. The all-member show runs through Sunday, January 30th. Check out our best works and "sock it to winter" by donating a pair of new socks to benefit the Carpenter's Shelter. Join the Sock Hop Saturday, January 15th, 7-10pm, admission: donated pair of new socks.

November 3, 2010 - Celebrating Movement
Del Ray Artisans is pleased to announce the Celebrating Movement art show over the Thanksgiving weekend: Friday, November 26 through Sunday, November 28. What better way to celebrate movement than to get out of the house after Thanksgiving celebrations? Not only will we have a fabulous artwork exhibition set up in the gallery, but we have three great activities planned for the weekend: Jazzy Art View (Friday), Red Hot Salsa (Saturday), and Poetry Tea Party (Sunday).

October 21, 2010 - Holiday Mosaic Art Workshop
The workshop is on Tuesday, November 30th and Wednesday, December 1st. Looking for a perfect gift or decoration for the holidays? Recycle your old decorations and ornaments into a one-of-a-kind holiday mirror, wall hanging, ornament or door piece. Create an original and unique mixed media piece using ribbons, ceramic pieces, coffee mugs, fabric or pins. Samples of mosaic ornaments and tree and table decorations will be available at the workshop to generate ideas.

October 21, 2010 - Come learn the "Art of Bookmaking" with Stacy Rausch
The workshop is on Sunday, November 14 from 11-4pm at the gallery. You will learn several methods of bookbinding including: How to make a small hardcover notebook (saddle stitched single signature) and/or a "matchbook" style book; How to make a scrapbook/photo album style book (side sewn/Japanese stab binding); How to make a hard "case" bound book (including multiple sewn signatures). Examples of several finished books will be available during the workshop to spark your creativity and imagination!

October 21, 2010 - 15th Annual Holiday Market
Join us for the 15th annual Holiday Market at Del Ray Artisans! The Market offers unique handmade fine arts and crafts from 20 exhibitors (including pottery/ceramics, photography, jewelry, cloth, paper crafts, and glass), beautiful poinsettias from West Landscapes LLC, and delicious Bake Sale items with proceeds to benefit the local community. Of course, admission is free to browse!

September 30, 2010 - Two Life Drawing Workshops in October
Join us on Monday, Oct 11 from 2pm-5pm for Values and Lines in Figure Drawing (a short refresher on basic line figure drawing) and on Monday, Oct 18 from 6:30pm-9:30pm for Bold Figure Drawings (a workshop exploring different ways to create bold and expressive figure drawings). All skill levels are welcome.

September 10, 2010 - Blue: An Interpretation
Blue: An Interpretation opens Friday, November 5th and runs through Sunday, November 21st. Meet the artists on Friday, November 5th from 7-10 pm. Enter the raffle to win a "blue" basket of goodies from local shops and artisans. Assign "Peoples' Choice" awards to your favorite works! Blue is a Del Ray Artisans all member show giving the artists an opportunity to test their creative genius in depicting what "blue" means to them.

September 08, 2010 - Once Upon A Time
Join Del Ray Artisans on Friday, October 1, 7-10 pm for the opening reception of ONCE UPON A TIME: Fantastical Magical Nostalgic Re-imaginings. See how artists have revived, deconstructed, and reinvented a nostalgic nursery rhyme, a beloved bedtime story, a favorite fairy tale or fable, or a memory. Let your own inner child take a flight of fantasy with the artists, and allow your imagination bring your own "once upon a time" to life!

August 11, 2010 - From Our Perspective
Del Ray Artisans (DRA) is pleased to present the 7th annual Board Showcase titled From Our Perspective. The Board Showcase is unique in that Board members are invited to display their works in return for their service to DRA. The show opens on September 3rd and the Meet the Artists reception will be held on Friday, September 10th from 7 pm to 10 pm. The From Our Perspective Board member/ artists are: Kathryn A. Brown, John Hiller, Paige Ireland, and Marlin G. Lord.

August 02, 2010 - Art for Hope: Benefiting Women with LAM
In a collaborative effort with The LAM Foundation, Del Ray Artisans is pleased to announce an exhibition of selected artists' work entitled Art for Hope: Benefiting Women with LAM. A VIP Opening Reception (invitation only) will be held on Saturday, September 25th from 7 pm to 10 pm. The show is open to the public on Sunday, September 26th, from noon to 4 pm.

June 17, 2010 - "The Gathering of the Legends" photography exhibition
Meet Alexandria's Living Legends of 2009-2010. The exhibition is the culmination of this year's Living Legends of Alexandria program that features 30 of Alexandria's recent history makers, many of whom will be in attendance at the opening reception on Friday, August 6, 7-10 p.m. Twelve individuals or teams were selected from among the nominees as the 2009-2010 Living Legends of Alexandria: Chet Avery, Rosalind Bovey, V. Rodger Digilio, Nelson A. Green, Sr., Alice Merrill and Linda Odell, T. Michael Miller, John Porter, Joan and John Renner, David G. Speck, Pat Troy, Lois Walker, and Betty R. Wright.

June 17, 2010 - Global Rhythm Exhibition at Del Ray Artisans
Del Ray Artisans is pleased to announce the upcoming Global Rhythm exhibition which opens on Friday, July 2. From Paul Gauguin to Amedeo Modigliani, artists have been inspired and entranced by the culture, people, and artistic vision of a foreign land. Whether it's their ethnic technique or the exotic appearance, artwork influenced by a foreign country opens the minds of fellow artists and patrons alike—displaying a visual passport to a new, beautiful and unfamiliar world. This show celebrates that global inspiration.

May 12, 2010 - Alexandria Art Market
Del Ray Artisans (DRA) is pleased to announce its first monthly art market. A variety of original artwork from over 20 artists will be displayed for sale including, but not limited to, painting, photography, pottery, jewelry, and glasswork. The grand opening festivities on June 5th, 2010 will include music by the Lovejoy Group, dancing by the GMU Capoeira Club and yummy food by Sapore d'Italia.

May 6, 2010 - Undecided: A Dialog between Artist and Viewer
Join us at 7 pm on Friday, June 4, for the opening reception of Undecided: A Dialog between Artist and Viewer, and on Sunday, June 27 at 5 pm for the closing reception and artist talk. June's all-member show gives gallery visitors a chance to participate in the creative process. Undecided is about the process of creating art and noticing how subjects, themes, or titles emerge.

April 20, 2010 - Figure Drawing Workshop: Focus on Line
Lines from loose to precise, lines that give mass to your figures, lines that give life to your drawings, and
minimal lines that make your drawing look finished will be explained and demonstrated in this workshop.

April 9, 2010 - Finding Beauty
Finding Beauty reflects how artist Amanda R. Wright responds to her present everyday environment and to the people within it. Through painting and mixed media, flowers, mountains and other symbolically depicted landscape elements, are brought into bold, radiant, multicolored light to tell her story. The show is Ms. Wright's thesis exhibition for her Masters of Interdisciplinary Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA.

April 1, 2010 - Workshop: Art Theory and Developing the Artistic Identity
From Picasso to Warhol, whether the artist is a realist or an abstractionist, each artist is challenged with the task of producing work that is both compelling AND lucrative without sacrificing his or her artistic vision.

March 30, 2010 - Bag Swap!!!
Bring "gently used" or an "un-favorite" bag and swap it out for something "new-to-you"! On Friday, April 16, from 7-9 pm, "What's Your Bag?" curators Karen Schmitz and Theresa Kulstad will host this FREE and FUN happening at the gallery.

March 27, 2010 - 7th Annual Spring Outdoor Art Sale at Del Ray Artisans
Del Ray Artisans will hold the 7th annual Spring Outdoor Art Sale on Saturday, May 1st, 2010 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Original works from a diverse set at least 20 Del Ray artisans in a variety of 2D and 3D media will be featured. Media include painting, photography, pottery, jewelry, fashion accessories, fabric art, and a few surprises.

March 25, 2010 - 13th Annual T.C. Williams Student Art Show
The Del Ray Artisans and the T.C. Williams High School Art Department jointly present the 13th Annual Student Art Show at the Del Ray Artisans gallery, from Friday, May 7th through Sunday, May 16th. The exhibit will feature the work of fourteen T.C. Williams juniors and seniors who are members of the National Art Honor Society.

March 20, 2010 - Creativity Workshop: Thinking In and Out of the Bag
Are you stuck in a creative rut? Does it feel like your creativity has taken a vacation? Do you describe yourself as not having a creative bone in your body? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, this workshop is for you. During this fun, interactive and hands-on workshop, we'll spend two hours helping you get in touch with your creative side.

March 15, 2010 - ATC (Artist Trading Cards) SWAP!
Our next ATC swap will happen during the "What's Your Bag?" show. We invite you to make ATCs that are created using a piece of a bag somewhere in your artwork. Bring a small amount of your favorite supplies to make something fitting for the theme.

February 20, 2010 - What's Your Bag?
This show explores the "Bag as Art" in all mediums and interpretations - handbags, backpacks, tea bags, suitcases, sacks, paper or plastic. The show will be embraced by the recycle, reuse and repurpose community with latch hooked plastic bags made into modern day wall tapestries as well as decorative and more functional items. This show will be fantastic!

February 19, 2010 - Felting Accessories Workshop (in two sessions)
Learn how to turn those ruined, moth-ridden garments into felt, and how to turn the felt into fabulous fashion accessories like felted flowers, bags and scarves.

February 8, 2010 - Women in Art: Body of Work
In a new show, artists are asked to explore women's varied roles as patrons, creators and sources of inspiration in the creative world. The all-media show, Women in Art: Body of Work, is a joint effort by Del Ray Artisans and the Divas of Decoupage and runs from Friday, March 5 to Sunday, March 21.

February 3, 2010 - Introduction to Figure Drawing Workshop
If you are interested in life drawing but have been apprehensive about coming to our regular open sessions, join us for a special Introduction to Figure Drawing Workshop. Hamil Ma, a resident of Alexandria and instructor at Prince George's Community College and VisArts, has graciously agreed to hold this instructional session at the Del Ray Artisans gallery.

February 2, 2010 - Self-Marketing Workshop
Not sure how to describe yourself as an artist? Shy about self-promotion? Then Friday night, February 19th at 7 pm at the Del Ray Artisans gallery is where you want to be! Join us for an artist's writing workshop where we will explore words to explain what you do as an artist and describe what you create.

February 1, 2010 - Artist Swap Meet and General Meeting
One of DRA's most popular events is coming this month - the very popular White Elephant Art Supply Swap Meet. This is the featured activity at the Sunday, February 28, General Meeting. So let the scouring of your basements, garages, attics, closets or car trunks begin!

January 21, 2010 - ARTIOMS: Expressing idioms, clichés and word phrases in art
Del Ray Artisans (DRA) is pleased to announce the show, ARTIOMS: Expressing idioms, clichés and word phrases in art which runs from Friday, February 5 through Sunday, February 21. Artists are being challenged to express their favorite (or not so favorite) idioms, clichés, word phrases or play on words in their artwork. Anything goes for this show, so we can't wait to see what artists come up with! The opening reception is on Friday, February 5, from 7-10 pm and is free and open to the public.

January 20, 2010 - Prose and Poetry Reading by Tuesdays at Two Writers Group
Join us on Friday, February 12, at 7 pm for a fun evening of art viewing and prose reading! Del Ray Artisans has collaborated with the Tuesdays at Two Writers Group to bring a one-of-a-kind event to the DRA gallery.

January 2, 2010 - "Messing Around with Creativity" Workshop
Whether you are a working artist or you haven't picked up a crayon since grammar school, the "Messing Around with Creativity" workshop is for you. Everyone is creative, but most of us never fully explore that idea. That's what this workshop is designed to do.

January 1, 2010 - Combo Fun with Cards and ATCs!
Card-makers and ATC-ers (Artist Trading Cards) come to DRA for New Year FUN! Join us for a NEW year of art-making for Card Makers and ATC artists Sunday, January 31st from noon - 4pm.

2009

December 17, 2009 - New Work for a New Year Show
Del Ray Artisans (DRA) is pleased to announce the January 2010 show, "New Work for a New Year". This exhibit, for both DRA members and non-members, provides local artists a platform to show recent work, which has not been previously exhibited.

November 4, 2009 - Holiday Market at Del Ray Artisans
Join us for the 14th annual Holiday Market! The Market offers unique, handmade fine arts and crafts from 16 exhibitors (including photography, greeting cards, pottery/ceramics, jewelry, fabric, paper crafts, and holiday greens), one-stop-shopping for all your holiday needs, and delicious Bake Sale items to benefit Food for Others.

October 11, 2009 - DEL RAY DOZEN INVITATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW
Del Ray Artisans (DRA) is pleased to announce the return of the Del Ray Dozen Invitational Photography Show. This all-photography show builds on the success of the previous all-photography shows. This exhibit will showcase the work of sixteen photographers.

September 21, 2009 - UpBeat OffBeat Auction: A Whacky Celebration of Creativity
Del Ray Artisans' (DRA) classic, whacky artful fundraiser, the UpBeat OffBeat Auction, will be held on Saturday, October 17th, from 7 pm to 10 pm at the Durant Center, 1605 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA located near the King Street Metro. The UpBeat OffBeat Auction is a much-anticipated event featuring a live auction of home furnishings "extremely made-over" by local artists, and a silent auction of artwork—all accompanied by live music and refreshments.

September 15, 2009 - Yard Sale to Benefit Del Ray Artisans
Del Ray Artisans is holding its annual Yard Sale on Saturday, September 26, from 8 am to 2 pm (rain date is Sunday 9/27) at the intersection of Commonwealth and Mount Vernon Avenues in Alexandria. There will be a fine selection of household goods, toys, books, artwork and supplies, furniture, and miscellaneous -- something for everyone! All proceeds go to support Del Ray Artisans.

September 14, 2009 - The Arts Build Communities
Del Ray Artisans (DRA) members will present the exhibition: The Arts Build Communities. This is a statewide theme established by Virginians for the Arts Foundation. The message is the same, regardless of the medium: "The arts strengthen our communities, lift our spirits and build a better quality of life for all." In this, the third all member show for 2009, Del Ray Artisans reflect on the positive impact of art through a variety of media.

August 7, 2009 - Revenge of the Sequel Art Exhibition
Revenge of the Sequel, the first of its kind exhibition in the country, is a juried art show providing artists the opportunity to unleash their talents to create images that depict and convey their uninhibited and unabashed versions of a sequel. Juror for this show was Jean Schwartz, a well-respected Northern Virginia artist who has had solo shows in Paris, upstate New York, and Washington, D.C., and whose works also have been exhibited in numerous galleries in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. Curator is David A. Kosar.

July 13, 2009 - ILLUMINATIONS: PAINTINGS, PRINTS, INSTALLATIONS
Del Ray Artisans (DRA) announces its 2009 annual showing of works by six members of the DRA Board of Directors who have volunteered in that role for over two years. The exhibit showcases several media—painting, photography, gardening, and painted glass—in a wide range of styles and expressions that are produced by the leaders of this local group of artists and artisans.

May 11, 2009 - Re-String Your Bling! Workshop
Remember that earring that you were sure you'd find its mate? What about that necklace that you were so convinced would come back in fashion but hasn't? Perhaps that lone earring and the throw-back necklace could be re-purposed, recycled and re-fashioned into a brand new piece! This workshop is not about repairing the pearls that were passed down through the family, but rather a way for you to take your unworn costume jewelry and make it rock!

May 6, 2009 - DEL RAY ARTISANS SUMMER ART CAMP 2009
KIDS GET ECO-CREATIVE with a one week art-making camp that is "green-themed", turning environmental eye sores into amazing eye candy! Art activities including: painting, drawing, collage, fiber fun, mixed medium, games and more. The only skills required are a desire to learn and imagination.

May 5, 2009 - Youth for Unity - Cultural Diversity Project
Del Ray Artisans is pleased to announce that the City of Alexandria is hosting a reception at their gallery to present the Youth for Unity posters to the public. The Youth for Unity posters were developed by high school students as part of a City-sponsored project to promote appreciation of our city's cultural diversity.

April 20, 2009 - Bond for Life Exhibition
The Del Ray Artisans (DRA) is hosting an exhibition that explores the centuries old bond between humans and their pet companions. The exhibition opens on Friday, May 22nd (opening reception from 7-10 pm) and runs through Sunday, June 21nd.

April 20, 2009 - Amazing Del Ray-ce! June 6, 2009
A combo scavenger hunt, Amazing Race and Jeopardy dash through the Del Ray community with teams competing for prizes and fun. Come Ray-ce through Del Ray on Saturday, June 6, from 2:30-5:00 p.m. in this joint fundraiser sponsored by Del Ray Artisans and the Lee-Fendall House Museum and Garden. Clue books in hand, teams will compete in this combo scavenger hunt, Amazing Race and Jeopardy event!

April 1, 2009 - SPRING OUTDOOR ART SALE
The Del Ray Artisans (DRA) is pleased to announce the sixth annual Spring Outdoor Art Sale on Saturday, May 9th, 2009 (the day before Mother's Day), from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The sale will be held in the Nicholas A. Colasanto Park, adjoining the Del Ray Artisans gallery at 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA. This is a rain or shine event and is free and open to the public.

March 23, 2009 - T.C. Williams High School 12th Annual Student Art show
The Del Ray Artisans (DRA) and the T.C. Williams High School (TCW) Art Department jointly will present their 12th Annual Student Art show at the Del Ray Artisans Gallery, from Friday, May 1, 2009 through Sunday, May 17th, 2009. Its opening reception will be from 7pm to 10pm on Friday, May 1st. All are welcome to come see the work of Alexandria's talented young artists.

February 3, 2009 - CELEBRATE THE ART OF MAKING
Del Ray Artisans is proud to present its first All-Member, All-Media Show for 2009. This exhibit showcases the diversity of artistic talent found at DRA, from painting and drawing, to photography, sculpture, jewelry, and installation works. A wide variety of original 2 and 3 dimensional works will be on display for art lovers to enjoy and to purchase.

Supported in part by:
City of AlexandriaAlexandria Commission for the ArtsVirginia Commission for the ArtsNational Endowment for the Arts

Del Ray Artisans gallery
at the Nicholas A. Colasanto Center

2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301-1124
Phone: 703-838-4827 | Directions

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www.TheDelRayArtisans.org

Thursday:  Noon to 6 pm
First Thursday (May-Sep):  Noon to 9 pm
Friday:  Noon to 9 pm
Saturday:  10 am to 9 pm
Sunday:  Noon to 6 pm

Free admission, Open to the public