Art Galleries in Southern Maryland
Beyond Southern Maryland’s scenic landscapes and rich heritage lies a vibrant and thriving art scene that often goes unnoticed. Shopping at local art galleries is an intimate voyage into the soul of the Southern Maryland, where every painting, sculpture, and handcrafted piece tells a story woven with local colors, traditions, and talent. These galleries, each with their distinct flair, offer more than just artwork; they provide a connection to the community, an opportunity to support local artists, and a chance to bring a piece of Southern Maryland's rich cultural heritage into your living space.
Artworks @7th
8905 Chesapeake Ave (at 2nd St.)
North Beach, Maryland 20714
https://www.artworksat7th.com/
Summer Hours (May - September): Thursday thru Sunday from 11am-6pm
Winter Hours (October - April) Thursday thru Sunday from 11am-5pm
Established in 2004, this vibrant artists' cooperative emerged from the shared vision of a small group of local artists above the quirky Nice n Fleazy Antiques store at the corner of 7th Street and Bay Avenue, but has drifted closer to the thriving boardwalk over the years to its current location in June 2016.
The cooperative, consisting of 20 to 30 artists, is a dynamic blend of individual and collective success. It maintains a fresh and engaging atmosphere by frequently rotating new pieces and hosting a variety of shows. These include individual and guest artist exhibitions, small works, and themed shows, reflecting the diverse interests of its members. The gallery’s involvement in numerous community activities further underscores its mission to enrich public understanding and appreciation of the arts.
Artworks @7th showcases a diverse range of artistic talents. Highlights include the captivating sculptures of Mary Gault, the vibrant paintings of Lesley Alexander, and the exquisite jewelry creations by Suzanne Nawrot. Each artist contributes to the rich tapestry that makes the gallery a beloved destination for art lovers and collectors.
Kulture Gallery
1230 Smallwood Dr West
Waldorf, Maryland 20603
https://kulturegallery.com/
(301) 396-3924
Hours: 11:30am-7pm Tues-Sat
Kulture Gallery emerges as a significant cultural landmark with its extensive collection of African-American art and works from ethnic artists worldwide, including an array of originals, giclées, sculptures, and carefully selected gifts and collectibles. Each piece in the gallery is thoughtfully chosen, ensuring a representation that resonates with depth and authenticity. This gallery is not just a space for viewing art; it is a celebration of diversity, creativity, and cultural heritage. With a focus on originality and quality, Kulture Gallery presents a unique experience for art enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Artists featured at Kulture Gallery include the works of artists like LaShun Beal, Leroy Campbell, and Rene Dickerson. The dynamic nature of Kulture Gallery’s collection means that it is continually evolving. Pieces are sold, and new artworks are regularly acquired, offering a fresh and engaging experience with each visit. To keep art lovers updated, the gallery encourages joining their mailing list for notifications about new arrivals and upcoming events.
Kulture Gallery is more than just an art space; it is a journey through the diverse landscapes of black artistry. It invites visitors to immerse themselves in the gallery experience, where each artwork tells a story and connects with audiences on a profound level.
North End Gallery
41652 Fenwick St
Leonardtown, MD 20650
https://www.northendgallery.com/
301-475-3130
Hours:
Tues-Sat 11am-5pm
Sun 11am-4pm
First Friday each Month 11am-8pm
North End Gallery has provided a community for artists in the heart of Historic Leonardtown, Maryland for more than 35 years. Its genesis dates back to September 1986, when founders Sally Carter and Pat Lewis, driven by a vision to unite local artists in a collaborative gallery setting, brought together 20 artist friends. This collective was rooted in equality—each member held equal say and responsibility in running the gallery. The spirit of camaraderie and collective effort has been the gallery's cornerstone ever since.
Today, North End Gallery operates with a cooperative membership of 35 juried artists from the tri-county region of Southern Maryland. These artists not only display their work but also staff and manage the gallery, ensuring a personal connection with visitors. Themed exhibits, changing monthly and debuting each First Friday, add a dynamic element to the gallery, inviting regular revisits.
The range of artwork on display is as diverse as the artists themselves, including oil and acrylic paintings, watercolors, ceramics, photography, jewelry, glass objects, woodwork, mixed media sculptures, and textiles. Notable artists include Christina Allen, known for her watercolor and oil paintings, plein air oil painter Alison Barry, and ceramic artist Denise Breitburg, each contributing their unique voice to this creative nexus.
CalvART Gallery
110 Solomons Island Road South
Prince Frederick, Maryland 20678
www.calvertarts.org
Hours: Open Everyday from 10am-3pm
CalvART Gallery, located in the heart of Prince Frederick, Maryland, stands as a shining example of the Arts Council of Calvert County's dedication to nurturing and showcasing local art. This gallery is not just a venue for art exhibitions; it is a hub of artistic expression and community engagement, supporting the diverse talents of local artists.
As a program of the Arts Council of Calvert County, CalvART Gallery plays a pivotal role in fulfilling the Council's mission. The gallery serves as a welcoming space where local artists can display and sell their art, offering visitors a chance to explore and appreciate this font of regional creativity at their own pace. Whether you're taking a leisurely lunch break or attending one of the gallery's receptions and special events, CalvART Gallery provides an inviting and inspiring environment.
Local artists are not only welcome but encouraged to apply for membership. As a juried gallery, CalvART seeks diversity in both its artwork and membership, ensuring a vibrant and dynamic selection of pieces for visitors to enjoy. This commitment to diversity reflects the gallery's ethos of inclusivity and representation.
In addition to its role as an exhibition space, CalvART Gallery is integral to the broader mission of the Arts Council. The Council sponsors grants to schools and organizations for arts-related programs, emphasizing the importance of art in education and community development. Collaborative partnerships with other nonprofit organizations, including the esteemed Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center, further extend the gallery's influence and impact.
At CalvART Gallery, visitors can discover a wide array of works for sale, encompassing a variety of mediums and styles. This ever-changing collection ensures a fresh and engaging experience with each visit, making the gallery a must-visit destination for art lovers and collectors.
Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center
13470 Dowell Rd
Solomons, MD 20629
https://www.annmariegarden.org/
410-326-4640
Hours:
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Sat 10am-5pm
Sun 12pm-5pm
Spanning 30 acres in Solomons, Maryland, the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center stands as an idyllic sanctuary where art and nature harmoniously intertwine. This center is not just a place to view art; it's an immersive experience that fosters creativity, collaboration, and contemplation. Annmarie's commitment to connecting people with art and nature is evident in its diverse exhibits, programs, classes, public projects, and annual events.
In 2003, Annmarie joined the prestigious Smithsonian Institution's Affiliations Program, which allows it the prestigious honor of borrowing sculptures from the Smithsonian's Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden. The opening of the Arts Building and the Studio School in 2008 marked a significant expansion in Annmarie's programs and activities. Now housing three galleries, the Arts Building is a nexus of artistic exploration.
Annmarie Sculpture Garden is renowned for hosting a variety of events, such as ARTSFest, Garden in Lights, and Annmarie After Hours. It also offers educational programs and summer classes, including the innovative artLAB, a creative space for recycled materials, and the Nature Nook, which provides interactive nature-themed learning experiences for children.
The Sculpture Garden itself showcases remarkable works like 'The Council Ring' by B. Amore & Woody Dorsey and 'A Tribute to the Oyster Tonger, A Chesapeake Waterman' by Antonio Tobias Mendez, alongside contemporary installations such as 'Modern Petroglyphs' by 2015 Summer Artist-In-Residence, Kevin Sudeith. Gallery exhibitions feature a range of artists, including Susan Maas, Kara Patrowicz, and Jamie Lee Cooley, offering visitors a glimpse into the vibrant local art scene.
While the exhibits themselves are not for sale, The Annmarie Gift Shop has a wide selection of unique, handmade items from Southern Maryland artists and Fair Trade Gifts from around the globe available to purchase. The knowledgeable staff are always ready to share the stories behind each piece, making every visit both educational and inspiring. In addition to offering jewelry, home accents, pottery and glass works, there is a great selection of garden art, cards, books, children’s games and gifts, and wine accessories
With a "pay what you can" admission system for daily visits (suggested donation is $5 per person), Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center ensures that the fusion of art, nature, and community that it embodies is accessible to all.
Mattawoman Creek Arts Center
Smallwood State Park
5565 Upham Place
Marbury, MD 20658
https://www.mattawomanart.org/
301-743-5159
Hours: Friday - Sunday from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Nestled in the picturesque Smallwood State Park, the Mattawoman Creek Art Center is dedicated to nurturing and promoting visual fine arts in Southern Maryland. With a mission to cultivate artistic creation, appreciation, and accessibility, the center is a vibrant space for both artists and art enthusiasts. It provides a platform for artists of all experience levels to advance their craft, fostering a diverse and inclusive art community. The center's commitment to engaging the public and artists in meaningful interactions strengthens the regional appreciation for culturally diverse art. It actively encourages community building and idea exchange among artists. Supporting this mission, the center hosts various events, classes, and seasonal artisan markets, often with minimal participation fees as low as $5. Its gift shop features works from member artists like Janice Jones, Gene McCandless, and Barbara Wamsley, making it a unique destination for discovering local talent.
Best Practices when Shopping for Art
Shopping at Southern Maryland art galleries can be a delightful and enriching experience. Here are some best practices to enhance your art-buying journey:
Engage with Artists and Gallery Staff: Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with artists or gallery staff. They can provide invaluable insights about the art, the artist's process, and the story behind each piece.
Consider Your Space: Think about where the art will be displayed in your home or office. Consider the size, color scheme, and style of the room to ensure the art complements your space.
Trust Your Instincts: Art is a personal experience. Trust your taste and intuition. If a piece resonates with you emotionally or aesthetically, it’s worth considering.
Ask About Gallery Events: Many galleries hold special events, openings, or artist talks. Attending these can offer a deeper understanding of the art and connect you with the local art community.
Support Emerging Artists: Consider purchasing from emerging artists. Their work can be more affordable and supporting them helps nurture new talent in the art community.
Inquire About After-Sale Services: Some galleries offer services like delivery, installation, or framing. These can be valuable additions to your purchase.
Enjoy the Process: Finally, enjoy the experience of exploring and discovering new art. Each piece you encounter is a window into someone’s creativity and vision. Remember, buying art is not just a transaction; it's an investment in culture and creativity, and a personal journey into the world of visual expression.