The Caroline County Council of Arts invites artists to participate in an upcoming exhibition inspired by the spirit, creativity, and cultural impact of the Harlem Renaissance.

This exhibition celebrates the powerful voices, artistic innovation, and enduring influence of one of the most important cultural movements in American history. Artists are encouraged to submit work that reflects the themes of resilience, identity, joy, struggle, community, music, literature, and visual expression connected to the Harlem Renaissance or its continued legacy.

📅 Important Dates

• Art Submission Deadline: January 23, 2026

• Artwork Drop-Off Location:
  The Foundry Art Gallery
  401 Market Street, Denton, MD

• Exhibition Reception:
  Saturday, February 7, 2026
  12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
  At The Foundry

🎨 Who May Submit

This call is open to artists working in all mediums. Both emerging and established artists are welcome to apply.

📦 Submission Details

Artists will be asked to drop off their artwork in person at The Foundry by the submission deadline. Additional details regarding drop-off times, artwork requirements, and sales information will be shared directly with participating artists.

🤝 Community & Celebration

Join us for the opening reception on February 7 to celebrate the artists, the work, and the lasting legacy of the Harlem Renaissance. This event is free and open to the public.

For questions or additional information, please contact the Caroline County Council of Arts or visit The Foundry during gallery hours.

We look forward to celebrating art, history, and community with you.

Harlem Renaissance–Inspired Art
Harlem Renaissance–inspired art draws from the cultural, social, and creative movement that flourished in the 1920s and 1930s. Artists of this era celebrated Black identity, history, and everyday life through bold imagery, rich color, music, literature, and storytelling. The work often reflects themes of resilience, pride, creativity, and community, honoring African American experiences while challenging stereotypes and uplifting voices that had long been overlooked.

Get Ready for Mactoberfest 2025!

🧀 Join the fun for the 7th annual celebration of all things cheesy at the Chesapeake Culinary Center in Denton! This year’s Mactoberfest promises to be bigger and better than ever, bringing together local vendors, refreshing beer and wine selections, and the most talented top chefs around.

🌟 Chef Showdown Chefs will go head-to-head, showcasing their mouthwatering recipes to win your vote. The stakes are high as they compete for a $1,000 cash prize, the coveted Big Cheese Trophy, and ultimate bragging rights as The Big Cheese 2025.

🍴 Fun for Everyone Whether you’re a foodie, a cheese lover, or just looking for a fantastic way to spend the day, Mactoberfest has something for everyone. Stroll through vendor stalls, sip on delightful drinks, and immerse yourself in the culinary showdown that’s guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds!

🗓️ Mark Your Calendar Don’t miss the excitement at Mactoberfest 2025. Save the date, gather your friends, and join us for an unforgettable experience where you decide which chef reigns supreme.

Exclusive VIP Experience Last year’s VIP tickets sold out, so don’t wait to claim yours! VIP attendees will enjoy premium access inside the beautiful Chesapeake Culinary Center, complete with:

• A private bar for refreshments
• A goodie bag filled with surprises
• Larger mac and cheese tastings for the ultimate indulgence
• Live cooking demonstrations by talented chefs
• Access to the luxurious massage room
• Convenient indoor restrooms for ultimate comfort

Tickets on sale now!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mactoberfest-25-tickets-1306833878309?aff=oddtdtcreator

You’re Invited!

Join us at The Foundry on Friday, August 8th, 2025, from 4–6 PM for Shalagh Hogan’s Creativity Challenge Exhibit.

Enjoy light refreshments and hors d’oeuvres while exploring the work inspired by Shalagh’s ongoing creative practice. The event includes a prompted craft workshop, and a special artist talk by Shalagh Hogan.

Shalagh will share how committing to daily creative challenges—like her 60- and 100-day projects—has helped her grow as an artist, stay accountable, and unlock new levels of creativity. Whether you’re an artist or just curious, you’ll leave inspired by the power of showing up for your creativity every day.

We hope to see you there!

 The CCCA & Shalagh Hogan Present…

🎨7 Days of Art x4🎨

A Creative Challenge Led by Shalagh Hogan
Starts July 6, 2025
#CCCACreativeJuly2025 #OurCreativeJuly25

The Caroline County Council of Arts is thrilled to partner with Shalagh Hogan—The Foundry’s July Artist of the Month—for 7 Days of Art x4, a creative community challenge designed to spark joy, self-trust, and artistic exploration.

This challenge invites you to commit to seven days of intentional creativity, with the option to continue the journey for up to four weeks. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, this is your chance to show up for yourself and your creative practice in a welcoming, low-pressure space.

💡 How It Works:

• Create something daily for 7 days—big or small!

• Share your work on social media using the hashtag #CCCACreativeJuly2025 & #OurCreativeJuly25

• Feeling inspired? Extend your practice and join us for the full 4 weeks!

• Weekly prompts and encouragement will be shared to help keep you motivated.

  🌟 Why Join?

  Shalagh Hogan has completed over a dozen 60+ day creativity challenges and knows firsthand how daily artmaking can:

  • Ease anxiety

  • Build confidence

  • Strengthen your creative voice

  • Reconnect you with joy and purpose

  After leading several online challenges, Shalagh is excited to bring the experience home to her community—and to you.

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  📣 Stay Connected

  Follow the hashtag #CCCACreativeJuly2025 & OurCreativeJuly25 to see what others are creating and to share your journey! Check back weekly for inspiration, featured artworks, and creative reflections.

  Join us starting July 6 and let’s create something beautiful—together.

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🎨 Ken Rose – The Foundry’s Artist of the Month
Join us this September 2025 as we celebrate the work of Ken Rose, our Featured Artist of the Month!

Ken Rose – Capturing the Beauty of Nature and Its Wildlife

Ken Rose, the artist behind Neanderthal Photography, is a self-taught landscape and wildlife photographer based on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. His work has been featured in local shops, museums, and state calendars, earning both local and international awards.

Ken’s photography reveals the beauty of the natural world—whether in the warm glow of daylight or the quiet magic of night. One of his ongoing series, In the Presence of Trees, reflects his deep connection to nature. In it, he explores the quiet strength, intricate beauty, and profound presence of trees, inviting viewers to slow down, reflect, and consider their relationship with the living landscapes around them.

When he’s not behind the lens, Ken enjoys relaxing with a glass of wine with his wife and spending time with their grandsons. He shares his past and future works on Instagram and Facebook, where his audience can follow his creative journey.

Everyday Magic: 2025 Denton’s Mainstreet Banners – Artists Needed!

🎨✨ Calling All Denton Artists — It’s Time to Share Your Everyday Magic! ✨🎨

It’s that time again, Denton — time to color the town for the third year in a row! We’re looking for local artists to help us transform the streets of Denton with vibrant, original banners that celebrate the everyday magic all around us.

What’s Everyday Magic?
It’s the small moments, the quiet beauty, the unexpected joy in daily life. It’s the heart of our town — and we want to see what that means to you. This year’s Denton Mainstreet Banner project invites artists to paint their version of everyday magic in Denton. What makes our town special in your eyes? Show us through your art!

Why It Matters
Our goal is to brighten Denton’s streets with a little Everyday Magic. These colorful banners do more than just beautify our community — they draw people in, boost tourism, and support our local economy. It’s art that makes an impact, and you can be a part of it.

Apply to Be a Denton Mainstreet Banner Artist!
There’s no better way to express your creativity, share your voice, and spread a little joy. Ready to join in? Apply today and help us bring the magic to life!

Reminder: Banner Applications Due by Friday, May 9th

Please be sure to submit your banner applications by Friday, May 23rd. Each banner is $75, and there will be a live auction at the end of the year featuring all the banners.

Thank you for supporting the arts!

Banner Application 2025 (2)

🎴💮A 3 Month Journey – An Art Show by Mary Elizabeth Atwood 💮🎴

A 3 Month Journey – Art Show by Mary Elizabeth Atwood
Friday, June 13th | 4:00–7:00 PM at The Foundry

Join us for A 3 Month Journey, a heartfelt exhibition by Mary Elizabeth Atwood, featuring work created during her time as Artist in Residence at The Foundry—alongside pieces drawn from her broader life journey. Her art radiates energy, emotion, and deep love, capturing moments both personal and universal.

The evening will also include light refreshments from local Denton favorites, plus a dash of storytelling that reflects Mary Elizabeth’s passion for creative expression in many forms. Come celebrate community, creativity, and the stories that connect us all.

A Creative Start to 2025 at The Foundry!

The Foundry is kicking off the new year with an exciting lineup of classes and events that will get your creative juices flowing! Whether you’re looking to make unique gifts, learn a new skill, or enjoy a fun date night, we’ve got something for everyone this January and February.

Rough Paintings/Raw Emotion
January 17, 2025 | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm | The Foundry

Get ready for an emotional journey through the brushstrokes of artist Andrew Wingate. His deeply personal works explore the human experience, blending raw emotion with bold colors and intense energy. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with Andrew’s story and experience his powerful solo exhibition.

Animal Pet Portrait Mosaics!
January 25, 2025 | 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm | The Foundry

Calling all pet lovers! Join us for a fun mosaic class where you’ll create a beautiful, one-of-a-kind pet portrait. Whether your animal is furry, feathered, or scaly, you’ll bring them to life with glass pieces and your own creativity. This class is perfect for all ages, and you’ll leave with a special piece of art (grouting instructions will be provided so you can finish at home).

Glass Etching Class
February 1, 2025 | 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm | The Foundry

Looking to craft a unique Valentine’s gift? Learn the art of glass etching in this fun class, where you’ll create etched wine glasses, candle holders, and a suncatcher to impress your loved ones. All materials are provided, and you’ll have the opportunity to design your own stencils or choose from pre-made options. A perfect way to get creative and celebrate love!

Valentine’s Date Night: Paint Your Love Bug!
February 13, 2025 | 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm | The Foundry

Treat your Valentine to a fun and memorable night of painting! In this relaxed, creative class, you’ll paint adorable Valentine-themed VW buggies—no experience necessary. With all materials provided, it’s a perfect date night that’s fun, relaxing, and a chance to create something special together.

It’s shaping up to be an exciting start to the year at The Foundry! Whether you’re new to the creative scene or a seasoned artist, these events and classes offer a wonderful opportunity to tap into your artistic side, learn new skills, and connect with others in the community. Be sure to reserve your spot for these popular classes and make the start of 2025 extra creative!