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DENTON, MD – For the fourth year running, the Denton Artsway will be transformed into a vibrant outdoor gallery with the return of the 2026 Main Street Banner Project. We have 12 local artists creating striking displays of colorful and community-driven banners to hang along Market Street. These 60-inch-tall and 24-inch-wide banners will adorn downtown Denton, celebrating local culture, creativity, and connection.

This year’s theme, “Peace Starts Here,” invites artists to share their personal perception of peace in Caroline County through their artwork. We are excited to see the many creative interpretations of what peace means to our community and how it begins right here at home.

Peace can be found in our neighborhoods, schools, parks, families, friendships, and everyday acts of kindness. This year’s banner project encourages artists and community members alike to pause, reflect, and share what peace means to them. Let’s show the community how peace starts here through creativity, understanding, and connection.

A significant part of making this project a reality comes from the generous support of local sponsors. Businesses such as Pizza Empire, Craft Bakery & Café, Market Street Public House, Mary Elizabeth & Tom Atwood, Caroline Review, Benson & Mangold Real Estate, Caroline County Public Library, Red Light Liquors, Purple Peak, The Paperwork Pros, and Burke & Herbert Bank play a crucial role in funding the project.

Our goal is to brighten Denton’s streets with a message of peace and unity. By hanging these vibrant banners throughout town, we not only celebrate our local creativity, but we also draw people in, boost tourism, and support our local economy. It’s art with impact, and we want you to be part of it!

The project doesn’t just beautify the town; it reinforces a core mission of the Caroline County Council of Arts: to use art as a tool for community engagement and economic growth. By elevating local talent and adding visual interest to Market Street, the banners help create a space where creativity flourishes and businesses thrive.

The Artsway Banner Project is a testament to the spirit of Denton. As our community continues to grow and evolve, these banners serve as a reminder that peace begins with each of us. Whether through the imagery, colors, or stories they tell, these banners will inspire reflection, hope, and positivity in all who visit.

For more information on the banners and the Denton Artsway, or to learn how you can get involved in future projects, contact the Caroline County Council of Arts.

Left to right: Rose Jeon, Rachel Lauren, Lynn Cegelski, Casey Wells, Kaitlyn McNeil, Vione Hobbs & Makayla Lindorm,

Victoria McConnell, Diane Tinney, Joanne Gelles & Kyleen Asche, Laurel Orendorf, Lucia Calloway

 

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🎨 Artist in Residence Exhibition Now on Display at The Foundry 🎨

Have you had a chance to see the beautiful work of our Artist in Residence, Petrea Jacqueline?

Petrea’s exhibition is currently on display at The Foundry and will remain up through the end of July. Her collection showcases a thoughtful and inspiring body of work that reflects her unique artistic vision and creative journey.

We invite the community to stop by, explore the exhibit, and experience the artwork in person. Whether you’re a longtime art lover or simply curious to see what’s new, this is a wonderful opportunity to support a talented local artist and enjoy an inspiring gallery experience.

The Foundry is open Wednesday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Come see Petrea’s incredible exhibition before it closes at the end of July!

Thursday, June 11th | 4:30–6:30 PM

@ The Foundry

Join us for Stepping Stones, a moving exhibition by Petrea Jacqueline exploring growth, reflection, resilience, and the moments that shape our paths forward. Through thoughtful and expressive works, Petrea invites viewers into a personal artistic journey filled with meaning, emotion, and discovery.

Throughout the evening, Petrea will speak about her exhibit, sharing insight into her creative process and the inspiration behind the collection. Guests will also enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and drinks while experiencing an evening of art, conversation, and community at The Foundry.

Come celebrate creativity, connection, and the stories that guide us along our own stepping stones.

Join us in welcoming Petrea Jacqueline as our 2026 Artist-in-Residence at The Foundry

Petrea Jacqueline is a visual artist working in watercolor, pencil, and conte crayon. Her work is rooted in drawing, observation, and the belief that imagination and creativity are essential parts of everyday life.

Her artistic philosophy centers on connection, inviting viewers to experience art as a shared human language that strengthens understanding, imagination, and community.

During her residency at The Foundry, Petrea will engage the community through open studio sessions, hands-on learning experiences, and classes focused on what she calls “simple secrets” of drawing and painting. She also plans to explore the creative process through observation, testing, and correction, helping participants build confidence in their own creative problem-solving skills.

Petrea is especially interested in making art approachable for everyone and creating space for curiosity, conversation, and exploration through both art and science.

“I believe we create and recreate ourselves all throughout our lives, even our days—especially if we are lucky. I feel very lucky to be the Artist-in-Residence at The Foundry in 2026, as it offers a chance to commit to art almost full-time and bring together what I have learned about drawing and painting over the years through continued study. It’s never too late.”
~Petrea Jacqueline

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Be sure to check out the classes Petrea is offering during her residency

“What Good is Art?”: An Open Community Art Discussion

Seven Secrets of Drawing