Chestertown RiverArts invited artists and artisans to submit work that exemplified the mastery of their craft. The response was far-reaching. The exhibit took shape in RiverArts newly redesigned gallery space that is able to give prominence to each of the 78 pieces created by 45 artists. The exhibit opened with a First Friday reception and will run through March 26.

Works on view include everything from jewelry made from fine silver and semi-precious stones to large hand-crafted garden sculptures. The fine art includes oil, acrylic, watercolor and pastel paintings. Crafts include textiles, metal work, woodworking, ceramics, jewelry, and fused glass. In addition to the typical “oohs and aahs”, visitors were captivated by collages so finely crafted that they look like watercolor paintings and the dramatic effects created by printing photographs on canvas and metal. Many were curious about some of the unfamiliar media used such as pyrography, digital painting, and collagraph printing.

Visitors voted for the “Peoples Choice Award” which was given to “Navy Diving Helmet” by Lauren Burnett. The 7” x 6” x 7” helmet is completely hand-sculpted from clay and finished with metallic gold and copper glazes. The detail is outstanding, giving the observer the illusion that it is made entirely from metal. Although small, it is a functioning deep sea diving helmet.

No doubt those who see this exhibit will want to attend the “Artists Talk” on Thursday, March 9, 5-6:30. Attendees will hear the artists talk about their inspiration and process.

The RiverArts Gallery and Gift Shop is located at 315 High Street, in the breezeway. Hours are Wednesday-Friday 11-4, Saturday 10-4, and Sunday 11-3. For information on upcoming exhibits, talks, classes and special events go to www.community.chestertownriverarts.org or call 410-778-6300.

“Paint the Town” is very popular with plein air artists from all over the mid-Atlantic region. In addition to having the opportunity to paint wonderful scenes, past participating artists often commented that they found Kent County residents to be extremely welcoming, especially those that opened their homes to out-of-town artists. Many residents offered suggestions for scenes best to paint whether it was the early spring fresh green acreage of local farms, the waterscapes and marinas of the small town of Rock Hall, the 18^th century homes of Chestertown or the wonderful private garden in town that is open to the public.

“Paint the Town” is a 4-day event. From Thursday through early Saturday afternoon artists paint the scenes throughout the area that interest them. On Saturday afternoon everyone frames their work and hangs them in the newly redesigned RiverArts’ gallery in preparation for the “Wet Paint Show & Sale”. Once the show is up, the participating artists vote for “Best in Show” and “Best Body of Work”. The ribbons are placed just before the show opens to the public.

At 5:30 p.m. artists and their guests, RiverArts members, and visitors are invited to the “Wet Paint Show & Sale” reception. At 6:00 pm there is a brief awards ceremony followed by a reception where everyone has the opportunity to mingle and shop.

Artists who are unable to participate in all 4 days of “Paint the Town” may still register to participate in our one day “Quick Draw” competition on Sunday, April 23rd. Artists arrive between 8:00-9:00 a.m. After checking in, artists have two hours to paint scenes in downtown Chestertown.  At 11:00 a.m. artists set up their paintings on easels in Fountain Park for viewing and judging by an outside judge. While the judge is making his selections, the public is invited to vote for the “People’s Choice Award”.

At noon, the “Quick Draw” Awards are presented for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places and the “People’s Choice”.  These paintings are then added to the gallery exhibit which is open until 3:00 p.m. All awards during Paint the Town come with cash prizes.

This year the exhibit is to be extended through April 30^th to give artists additional time to display and sell their work. Participation in the extended exhibit is not mandatory but encouraged.

Registration will close once the maximum number of artists allowed have responded which should be soon. If you or someone you know is interested, go to www.chestertownriverarts.org and then click on Events for more information and to register.

For most people, a trip to a favorite museum or art gallery wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the gift shop. Always a magnet for shoppers seeking something handmade and unique, RiverArts Gift Shop goes a step farther, serving the entire community with a treasure trove of artistic items.

Newly expanded and redesigned, the shop will have a grand re-opening on First Friday, February 3, from 5 to 7 pm. You’ll find it in a new location featuring an even greater variety of one-of-a-kind items created by RiverArts members in a space more conducive to shopping.

Whether browsing for yourself or a gift for your Valentine, you’ll find a curated selection of textures and materials including paintings, photos, woodcraft, pottery, metal, paper, knitted and woven items, basketry, jewelry, wearables and more — all with a certain artistic flair.

The new open design makes shopping a pleasure.  Signs will now alert you to new artists and items you might like to check out. Another new feature is a special display showcasing the work of RiverArts Clay Studio artists.

Prices at RiverArts are set to please with a variety of affordable merchandise. Feel even better about your purchases knowing you are supporting a local artist and that a portion of every sale goes to support RiverArts and its many community programs for children and adults.

Until Valentine’s Day, any purchase will enter you in a drawing for a ceramic piece by Marlayn King, one of RiverArts most popular artists known for her decorative work and varied techniques.  There will also be three prizes that include a mini bottle of wine with two RiverArts glasses.

Regular hours are W-F 11am to 4pm, Sat 10am to 4pm, Sun 11am to 3pm.  However, for those who need to do some last minute Valentine’s Day shopping the gift shop will be open Tuesday, February 14, 11-4.

While visiting the gift shop also take in RiverArts new exhibit, “Merging Perspectives”. In celebration of Black History Month the February exhibit will feature both local and regional black artists who work in a broad range of media. The show will take place in the updated gallery space and run through February 25.

The RiverArts Gallery and Gift Shop as well as KidSPOT are located at 315 High Street, in the breezeway. For more information visit www.chestertownriverarts.org or call 410-778-6300.

RiverArts is all about community, creativity, and connections. Whether you are an artist, an aspiring artist, a non-artist and/or someone who is an art and craft appreciator, RiverArts has so much to offer you. There are programs for all ages and experience levels. No matter what the offering it’s always about appreciating art, having fun, and meeting new people. There’s a lot to see, hear, and do planned through April.

Every month there is an opening reception for a new gallery exhibit followed by an artist talk where you can hear from the participating artists themselves about their inspirations and processes. In celebration of Black History Month the February exhibit, “Merging Perspectives” will feature both local and regional black artists who work in a broad range of media. The opening reception will be held February 3, 5-7pm; the show will run through February 25. The artist talk will take place Thursday, February 9, 5-6:30.

February’s First Friday reception will also include the GRAND RE-OPENING OF THE RIVERARTS GIFT SHOP. See how it has been expanded and re-designed to feature an ever greater variety of one-of-a-kind gifts created by RiverArts members in a space more conducive to shopping.

To complement the exhibit there will be two additional chances to hear from special artists.  On Saturday, February 4, at 1pm Kyle Hackett will present “Circular Narratives.” Kyle (b. Still Pond) is an artist, professor, and RiverArts Board Member who has returned home to share the influences and autobiographical connections to his artwork and journey. He will address painting tradition, contemporary image-making, and concepts of identity rooted in the communities that shaped him.

Jason Patterson’s work focuses on African American history on the Eastern Shore and highlights the role the past has in cultivating our current political and social conditions in the United States.”

Every month there are classes at the Clay Studio in hand-building and the wheel. These classes are designed for beginners, beginners-plus and intermediate levels where students learn a broad range of techniques. A special raku class will introduce Japanese glazing and firing techniques that result in one-of-a-kind pots in a broad range of colors with an interesting crackled appearance.

For those wanting to enjoy a casual fun-filled evening while learning something new there are the popular monthly get-togethers, “Uncorked Creations”.  Held at Casa Carmen you can learn a craft while enjoying premier wines and vermouths.

Specialized classes introduce a broad range of crafts for all levels. Learn the craft of quilling involving the shaping of paper flowers using folding and pleating techniques. Have fun with the art of Pysansky, a Ukrainian egg decorating technique.

For those who enjoy working in fiber there are three workshops. At “Indigo at Night” learn to indigo dye and explore shibori resist methods while creating glorious blue gifts.  During “Eucalyptus Magic in the Morning” create a naturally dyed, one-of-kind silk or wool gauze scarf using fresh eucalyptus leaves.  At “There’s Gold in Those Petals” create a golden cotton scarf using a natural dye with dried marigolds.

And don’t forget the kids! During the Saturday Farmers’ Market, year-round, children ages 2-12 are welcome to drop in at KidSPOT in the breezeway for creative and STEM-oriented play, artistic exploration, crafts and fun. Drop-in is always free.

RiverArts has a weekly newsletter that provides ongoing information on all upcoming offerings. In addition, it brings the world of museums, galleries, and the works of contemporary artists to its readers through on-line video tours and presentations. All community members are welcome to request this online publication; go to info@chestertown.riverarts.org or call 410-778-6300.

The RiverArts Gallery and Gift Shop as well as KidSPOT are located at 315 High Street, in the breezeway. The Clay Studio is located at 205 High Street. For information on all of the exhibits, talks, classes and special events and to register where needed go to www.chestertown.riverarts.org or again call 410-778-6300.

There are those that say that they buy all their holiday gifts at the RiverArts Holiday Show and Sale and for good reason! Now through December 31 over 50 artists are offering one-of-a-kind pieces of craft and art at affordable prices. The show opened on November 17 with some 1,000 items which are being replenished so that there is always a plentiful selection. This year we are delighted that our past best-selling artists are returning.

For those looking for pieces celebrating the holiday season, Amos Rudderow is well known for his distinctive wreaths, some traditional and some more contemporary. In addition, he creates charming wood frame and other decorative hangings.

While cards offer the opportunity to send family and friends holiday greetings, it is even better when they are works of art. Patty Mowell offers boxed sets of note cards with holiday, floral and oyster designs in addition to small prints from her original watercolors of holiday, local landscape, wildlife, and floral designs.

Enjoy pottery incorporating a broad range of styles designed for both practical and decorative uses. Ken Reinard works in clay, wood and stained glass. His work is known for its clean, simple, and elegant shapes, inviting one to touch as well as being satisfying to use. Marlayn King enjoys exploring different surface treatments such as the carving of clay and layering of glazes to create decorative and often colorful designs. She offers a wide selection of bowls, luminaries, butter crocks and platters.

Choose from many different styles and materials in jewelry. Ronn Akins creates unique statement jewelry which tends to be traditional in style. Though known for his wire necklaces and earrings, this year he will expand his collection to include polymer clay and more contemporary pieces. Totally different from Ronn is the contemporary design of earrings, necklaces, and bracelets created by Joan Strand. Her eclectic selection of sterling silver jewelry also incorporates semiprecious gemstones.

Some of the fiber art popular in the Holiday Show serve a decorative purpose while others are wearable. Lesley Campana loves to experiment with color and different weaving techniques. In addition to the scarves and shawls that she is best known for, she offers kitchen and table items. Christine Kamon makes colorful quilted items for table tops and walls to brighten homes for the holidays and year round. Her table toppers and mug rugs soften hard surfaces.

Jeff Haude is known for his 18^th century and contemporary styles in furniture as well as for home and gift items. This year his works will include cutting boards in many sizes and woods, coaster sets, cherry wood trays, knick knack shelves and, new this year, Scandinavian inspired waste baskets.

The show is at the RiverArts galleries in Chestertown’s decorated breezeway at 315 High Street.  Gallery hours have been extended to make shopping easier. By staying open later, visitors to the gallery may stop in   going to dinner in any number of Chestertown’s popular restaurants.

First Friday December 2 11-8
Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve – 11-3.
Wednesday and Sunday 11- 4
Thursday – Friday – 11- 6
Saturday – 9-5

For more information visit www.community.chestertownriverarts.org/  or call 410-778-6300. Special thanks go to the Kent Cultural Alliance and the Maryland State Arts Council for all the support they give to RiverArts activities and events throughout the year.

What could be better than the return of the Chestertown RiverArts’ Studio Tour where visitors can see wonderful art and talk with artists about their work while enjoying Kent County and northern Queen Anne’s Counties’ beautiful fall scenery! Take your free self-guided, tour on October 22-23 and 29-30, rain or shine, 10am-5pm.

Over 40 artists are participating in this year’s tour. Many of our most popular artists are returning and several are new. Their art is as diverse as the artists who create it with styles ranging from traditional to avant-garde. They work in a broad range of media that include fine art, pottery, fiber, woodcraft/furniture, jewelry, glass, mosaic, and metal.

Most studios are located throughout Kent County. Studio locations vary including artists’ private home studios, independent studios in a small art complex in Chestertown, and the studios at Heron Point.  Also take in RiverArts Clay Studio to see work by the many artisans that create both wheel-thrown and hand-built pottery. Whatever the location expect to have the chance to chat with the artists about their techniques and inspirations, see demonstrations and have the opportunity to buy original work at studio tour prices.

It is recommended that visitors start their tour at the RiverArts Gallery, 315 High Street, Chestertown in the breezeway, to view an exhibit of works by the artists on the tour. This month-long exhibit will give viewers the chance to decide which artists they wish to visit and plan their itinerary by referring to the tour’s brochure. Regular gallery hours are Wednesday-Friday, 11:00-4:00 Saturday, 10:00-4:00, and Sunday 11:00-3:00,

The tour’s website, www.studiotour.chestertownriverarts.org, provides information on each artist by name, location, and medium.  For more information on the tour call 410-778-6300, visit the website, or email info@community.chestertownriverarts.org.

Specials thanks go to the tour’s sponsors: Chesapeake Bank and Trust, the Maryland State Arts Council, and the Kent Cultural Alliance.

Chestertown RiverArts is excited to announce our quirky, anything goes, free-standing and free sculpture competition that will be at our 10^th anniversary celebration, !magine, on Sunday, September 11 from 1:00-6:00. We plan to enliven the middle of High Street with a menagerie of wild things, curious characters and gravity-defying assemblages.

All fun-loving creatives are invited to design and construct an imaginative sculpture that makes people smile, ponder or wonder. Both individuals and teams (whether representing an organization or a group of friends) are invited to participate and may enter more than one sculpture. This would be a perfect way to provide some extra visibility for your organization. Sculptures can be set up between 11:00 and 1:00 on the day of the festival. Festival goers will vote for the “People’s Choice” with an announcement of the winner at 5:00.

!magine is a community street festival along High Street that will bring art and fun for all ages: adult and children’s activities, artists selling their work, community arts projects, quick draw, photography and sculpture competitions, music, and food. RiverArts is offering this festival as a way to engage the whole community in the joys of art.

Other invitations for community participation include artists registering for space to sell their work,  photographers registering for the competition for best festival photo and plein artists registering for Quick Draw. For more information and to register for any of these opportunities, email RiverArts at info@chestertownriverarts.org.

Love chocolate? Chestertown Wednesday, August 17, 5:30 to 7 pm featuring Bespoke Chocolate truffles and Casa Carmen wines. This event is held in conjunction with the August art exhibit, Epicure.

Red wine is not always the rule of thumb when it comes to pairing chocolate with wine!  Enjoy three unique wine and chocolate truffle pairings complete with a tasting note card.

Casa Carmen wines will also be available for sale, as well as Bespoke Chocolate Truffle sample boxes. Create your own tasting party at home!

Register now for the event, as attendance is limited. Tickets are $25.  They may be purchased online https://community.chestertownriverarts.org/program/chocolate-and-wine-tasting, by phone, or at RiverArts.

For more information visit www.chestertownriverarts.org call RiverArts at 410 778 6300 or email info@chestertownriverarts.org

Chestertown RiverArts is located at 315 High Street, Suite 106, Chestertown, MD  21620 – (in the breezeway).