🎭Transform Your Creativity: Mask-Making Workshop with Mary Elizabeth Atwood🎭

Looking for a fun and meaningful way to explore your artistic side? Join us for a unique, two-part mask-making workshop led by the talented Mary Elizabeth Atwood! This hands-on experience will allow you to shape and decorate your very own mask, creating a personal work of art while reflecting on your intentions and desires for the future.

Part 1: Sculpting Your Mask

Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM –3:00 PM

In this first session, you’ll dive into the world of sculpting by crafting a mask that is as unique as you are! Using clay, you will form your mask directly on your face, ensuring a one-of-a-kind creation that’s deeply personal. All materials, including clay and rolling pins, will be provided, and a natural face cleanser will be available for your post-molding comfort.

✨ Tip: Bring along a small, meaningful item to embed into the clay as part of your design. Whether it’s a symbol of something special or a personal token, it’s the perfect way to add your own touch to the process.

Part 2: Painting & Decorating Your Masterpiece

Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

The fun continues in Part 2, where you’ll transform your clay mask into a vibrant work of art! In this session, you’ll use an assortment of materials—including paint, feathers, beads, and ribbons—to bring your mask to life. Personalize it with your own meaningful decorations, or use the provided materials to enhance your piece.

✨ Come with Intention: As you paint and decorate, we encourage you to reflect on what you want out of life. Bring a single word that represents your intention, and let that word guide your creative process. This is more than just an art project—it’s a journey of self-expression and mindfulness.

Why You Should Join:

• A Unique Artistic Experience: Both workshops offer a hands-on, immersive experience guided by a skilled artist.
• Personal Connection: Each mask you create will be a reflection of your personal journey, filled with meaning and intention.
• All Materials Provided: No need to worry about a thing—we’ve got everything you need to create your masterpiece.
• A Fun, Supportive Community: Whether you’re an experienced artist or a beginner, this workshop is about enjoying the process and connecting with others.

Registration:

This two-part class is limited in space, so make sure to secure your spot today! Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and reflective activity, this workshop promises to be an inspiring experience.

Cost: $40 for the full workshop (both sessions)
Location: The Foundry, Denton, MD
Registration: 🎭Register here🎭

*Ages 13 and up

We can’t wait to create with you and explore the art of mask-making in this transformative and creative workshop! Let’s craft something beautiful together.

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✨🎨CCPS Student Art Show at The Foundry 🎨✨

We’re thrilled to showcase the incredible talent of Caroline County Public Schools’ student artists at The Foundry! This special exhibit highlights the creativity, dedication, and artistic growth of young artists in our community.

Opening Reception 🎉

Join us as we celebrate these talented students at our Opening Reception on Friday, April 11, from 4–6 PM at The Foundry. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet the artists, admire their work, and show your support for the next generation of creatives.

Exhibit Details 🖼

The exhibit will be open to the public from Wednesday, March 26, through Wednesday, April 16, giving everyone plenty of time to stop by and experience the incredible work on display.

📍 Location: The Foundry, 401 Market St, Denton, MD 21629

We invite the entire community to visit, be inspired, and encourage these young artists as they share their creative visions with the world. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to celebrate local talent!

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.

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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!

Rough Paintings/Raw Emotion
January 17, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM @ The Foundry Art Gallery

Step into the world of Andrew Wingate, where every brushstroke reveals an untold story. Join us for an exclusive evening showcasing Andrew’s deeply personal collection, Rough Paintings/Raw Emotion. This exhibition offers a window into the raw power of creativity as a means of survival, healing, and expression.

Andrew’s art reflects a lifetime of profound highs and lows, channeling his emotions into bold, striking pieces that connect with the viewer on a visceral level. A Marine Corps veteran and self-taught artist, Andrew found solace in painting during his journey to sobriety. Each piece is a testament to resilience and the unyielding human spirit.

🎨 Explore pieces like “Raging Rose”, which symbolizes love and loss, or “A Man from Nowhere”, a meditation on identity and belonging.

📘 Want to learn more about Andrew’s journey? Download his full biography here.

Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of art, emotion, and connection. Light refreshments will be served.

Admission is free, and all are welcome!

Black Pasts, Black Futures

A Black History & Arts Celebration: A Day of Culture, Creativity, and Community

 Saturday, February 8th, 2025 from 1:00 pm-5:00 pm

The Caroline County Council of Arts invites the community to celebrate Black history and the arts at a special event on Thursday, February 8, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Taking place at The Foundry and neighboring businesses, including FACES Gallery, this family-friendly gathering will offer an afternoon filled with culture, creativity, and connection.

 

This year’s celebration will feature a variety of engaging activities that showcase the vibrant traditions of Black history and the arts:

• Community Tapestry Project: Contribute to a collaborative artwork that reflects the unity and rich history of our community.
• Interactive Arts & Painting Activities: Enjoy hands-on art experiences for all ages, including the opportunity to paint your own Sankofa bird as part of a larger community project.
• Free Catered Food: Taste delicious offerings provided by local partners (while supplies last).
• Chesapeake Heartland Bus: Step aboard this mobile museum to explore African American history and culture.

 

The event will also feature live performances, including drumming sessions, poetry readings, and gospel music, celebrating Black heritage and inspiring attendees. Performances will be held at various times throughout the day, with opportunities to hear local artists share their talents.

This free event is open to the public, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re creating art, enjoying performances, or connecting with others, join us for a memorable celebration of history, culture, and community.

Mark your calendars for February 8th—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!

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Opportunities to Participate

Want to get involved in the celebration? Here’s how:

• Read a Poem: Share your voice at the poetry reading! Whether you’re a seasoned poet or a first-time speaker, we’d love to hear from you.
• Student Service Learning Hours: Students can earn hours by volunteering at the event. This is a great opportunity to support the community while building your resume.

Click here to learn more about volunteering opportunities.

Let us know how you’d like to participate by e-mailing megan@carolinearts.org and join us in making this day unforgettable!

Artist of the Month: Petrea Jacqueline Macdonald 2024

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Petrea Jacqueline draws inspiration from the
many layered reality of our hearts and minds. She was lucky to
receive radical academic training with Glenn Grove at North
Harford High, and later at the Art Student’s League in NYC.
Petrea paints her interior experience and hopes that viewers
find a realization of their own inner world.
At Notre Dame University of Maryland, Petrea studied Christology, the
Bible, Peace & Justice, Philosophy of Religion and Art, receiving her
Bachelor’s degree in 2014.
She studied Reiki with Emily LaBathe who attuned her to the master
teacher level of both Traditional Usui, and Karuna Reiki.
In 2020 Petrea was awarded her Master of Divinity from Naropa
University where she took Buddhist Studies and Psychology for the
Chaplaincy and Spiritual Direction program.
In her Master’s thesis, “In The Deep: Transforming Suffering Is Creative
Process,” she says, “One thing I am starting to understand is that
pain, tragedy, and fear are always always accompanied by the light.
We can all embody and radiate the light.”

Transforming Suffering: The Art and Healing of Petrea J Macdonald

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Embrace Your Creativity this Winter at The Foundry!

This winter, The Foundry brings an array of creative workshops designed to brighten the season and unleash your inner artist. With offerings that range from crafting cozy pottery to exploring the magic of crystals, our classes offer something for all ages and interests. Embrace a new skill, make lasting memories, and celebrate the joy of art with us. Spaces fill quickly, so reserve your spot today!

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New Winter Workshops

Teen Writers’ Club
November 4 & December 2, 2024 | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Virtual Sessions via Zoom
Dive into creative writing with engaging discussions, prompts, and peer feedback. Perfect for young writers ages 13–18!
[Email marybeth.bishop@verizon.net to register]

Crescendo Club with Music in Caroline (MIC)
November 6 & November 20, 2024 | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | The Foundry, Denton, MD
A collaborative music club for middle school musicians, featuring performance opportunities and creative experimentation.
Cost: $60/month or $30 per session
[Register Here]

Sparkle and Shine: Mosaic Christmas Tree Workshop
November 9, 2024 | 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM | The Foundry
Join Joanne Gelles to create a festive mosaic Christmas tree—perfect for holiday decor or gifting.
Price: $35
[Reserve Your Spot]

Ink Expressions: Monthly Drawing Meetups
November 12, 2024 | 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM | The Foundry
A monthly gathering to practice drawing techniques with artist Leil Garner, focusing on varied techniques and inspiration.
Cost: $25
[Sign Up Today]

Tree Luminary Pottery Class
November 16, 2024 | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM | The Foundry
Craft a hand-built pottery luminary with Sharon Guzman; all materials provided.
Price: $30
[Reserve Your Spot]

Crystals 101
November 23, 2024 | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM | The Foundry
Explore crystal properties and make your own wire-wrapped necklace with Kyleen Asche.
Price: $30
[Register Here]

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Santa’s Workshop in the Island of Misfit Toys
December 7, 14 & 21, 2024 | 12 PM – 4 PM (Drop in Anytime) | Wharves of Choptank Visitor & Heritage Center
Bring the family to a magical holiday experience! Kids can build their own toys with “elves” (volunteers) and meet Santa himself! Suggested donation of $15 per child benefits local youth programs.
[Register Through Our Website]

Celebrate the season with creativity and community at The Foundry. We look forward to welcoming you!

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Everyday Magic: Denton’s 2025 Artsway Banners Bring Color and Connection to Market Street

DENTON, MD – For the third year running, the Denton Artsway is being transformed into a vibrant outdoor gallery with the return of the 2025 Mainstreet Banners 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 be installed and will adorn downtown Denton celebrating local culture, creativity, and resilience.

This year’s theme, “Everyday Magic”, highlights the magic you experience on a everyday basis in Denton, showcasing the beauty, unity, and positivity that define our community.

“Every day magic” is all around us — in the little moments, the small joys, and the beauty we often overlook. This year’s banner project invites you to pause, reflect, and share what every day magic in Denton means to you. Let’s show the town how magical our daily lives can truly be.

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, Night Kitchen, Market Street Public House, Mary Elizabeth & Tom Atwood, Caroline Review, Shore Strategies LLC, Caroline County Public Library, Red Light Liquors, Purple Peak, Paperwork Pros & Burke and Herbert Bank played a crucial role in funding the project.

Our goal is to brighten Denton’s streets with a little Everyday Magic. By hanging these vibrant banners throughout town, we not only celebrate our local creativity — 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 CCCA: 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 Banners Project is a testament to the resilience of Denton. As the community continues to navigate challenges, these banners serve as a reminder of the moments of joy that unite us all. Whether it’s through the vibrant hues of the artwork or the stories they tell, these banners will inspire hope and positivity in all who visit.

Be sure to keep an eye out for future updates, including details on an upcoming auction where you’ll have the opportunity to take home a piece of Denton’s artistic legacy.

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.

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Special thanks to Tom McCall from The Star Democrat for covering the story and highlighting the incredible artists and sponsors who made last year’s 2024 banner project possible.

We’re thrilled to express our gratitude to our sponsors for their invaluable support of Artsway Illuminations: Denton’s 2024 Mainstreet Banners Project, a vibrant celebration of community, art, and joy brought to you by the Denton Artsway!

Celebrating Local Talent and Community Spirit

With applications now closed, we’re excited to announce that all 12 talented local artists have been selected to participate in this exciting endeavor. Their work will adorn Market Street, painting a vivid picture of Denton’s cultural richness and the moments that bring us all together.

Theme: Moments of Joy

Our theme for this year’s banners is “Every Day Magic,” capturing the essence of Denton’s spirit. From colorful festivals to acts of kindness, our artists will spread magic, positivity and inspiration throughout our town,Denton MD.

A Showcase of Local Culture and Natural Beauty

Thanks to the generosity of sponsors like Caroline County Public Library, Caroline Review, Shore Strategies LLC Paperwork Pros, Pizza Empire,  Market Street Public House, Craft Bakery & Night Kitchen Coffee Roasters, Purple Peak, Red Light Liquors, Burke & Herbert and Tom & Mary Elizabeth Atwood we’re able to support our local artists and the Banner program for 2024. Their contribution to the local arts community is truly invaluable.

Inspiring Positivity and Resilience

Denton has faced its fair share of challenges, but through resilience and optimism, we’ve always found moments of joy. Our artists will uplift spirits and inspire hope, reflecting Denton’s unwavering spirit of resilience.

Join Us in Celebrating Denton’s Creativity and Community Spirit

As we prepare to showcase these beautiful banners, we invite you to join us in celebrating Denton’s creativity and community spirit. Stay tuned for updates on the banner display and auction, where you’ll have the opportunity to own a piece of Denton’s artistic legacy.

For more information, contact the Caroline County Council of Arts. Let’s continue to make Denton shine with creativity and joy!

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