The AAC is hosting a book discussion on the book Art & Fear: Observations on the Perils (and Rewards) of Artmaking by David Baylis and Ted Orlando. Art & Fear explores the way art gets made, the reasons it often doesn't get made, and the nature of the difficulties that cause so many artists to give up along the way. The book's co-authors, David Bayles and Ted Orland, are themselves both working artists, grappling daily with the problems of making art in the real world. Their insights and observations, drawn from personal experience, provide an incisive view into the world of art as it is experienced by artmakers themselves. A standard among artists, Art & Fear is widely available in libraries or second-hand shops. Please come even if you haven’t read the book as the topics raised are universal to artists and discussion will revolve around personal experience. Point person is Jill Althouse-Wood. Book discussions are free and open to the public. You are welcome to bring a snack to share or just come as a you are.

Arden Artisan’s Collective presents an invitational exhibition: Joy Is Art Featuring work by Arden Artists: Jill Althouse -Wood, Alida Fish, Annette Hearing, Russ McKinney, and Sadie Somerville In Collaboration with the Delaware Theatre Co’s production of  Every Brilliant Thing.

The Show Runs October 23- November 10, 2024. Gallery Hours 10-4 Monday- Friday at the Gallery at the Delaware Theatre Co located at Wilmington’s Riverfront, 200 Water St, Wilmington, De 19801

*Please note: There is limited parking around the theater. People attending the theater can park by the theatre and extra parking is in the lot next door on Tatnall St (and a short half block walk around to the theatre). There is a show  “Every Brilliant Thing” on Friday night Nov 1 at 7:00 so theatre goers will be using the parking that evening too.

DETAILED PARKING INFORMATION

Join us for our semi-annual artisan social. This month’s social will feature sculpture by Linda Celestian and Ron Meick, as well as new work by Sharon Bousquet . After the talks we will have social time and cake. Bring treats to share—or don’t. We will have you out of here in time to go home and watch the presidential debate. Please bring a small donation for the Buzz.

Buzz Ware Village Center; 2119 The Highway; Arden, DE

Thursday, June 13th. We will meet in the parking lot at 10 AM.  Please, if you plan to come, non-members need to get tickets for 11 AM. Member tickets are free. To become an artist member is easy and inexpensive ($40 for the whole year). All that is required is an artist website (I would think that your presence on the AAC website would count.) For this field trip we are asking you to sign up by emailing ardenartisans@gmail.com with subject line Mary Cassatt by May 31. At that point we will decide on transportation details—carpool or take the train in and where to eat lunch. 

Arden Studio Art Tours Saturday, June 8 from 10 AM-4 PM. Raindate is Sunday, June 9th. 

The Arden Artisan Collective, established in 2022, champions the diverse talents thriving within the Ardens community. Rooted in the Arts & Crafts tradition since its inception in 1900, the Ardens have fostered a lineage of artisans, and this June marks a significant milestone as these makers open their doors to the public after nearly a decade. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to explore the intimate spaces where creativity flourishes, immersing themselves in the authentic Arden way of life. From painting studios to woodworking workshops, and from a chocolatiers’ atelier to an outdoor sculpture garden, guests can tailor their own tour, experiencing firsthand the rich tapestry of artisanal endeavors. Start off the journey at the Arden Craft Shop Museum, delving into the community's storied maker heritage. At this stop, you can pick up a map of the stops along the tour. Throughout the event, artisans will showcase their work, offering visitors the chance to acquire unique pieces directly from the creators. For more information on the Studio Art Tour, please visit www.ardenartisans.com/2024studiotour. The tour is sponsored by Delaware Division of the Arts as part of their 2024 Fellowship program. 

Saturday, May 18, Janet will be participating in a Plein Air Art Competition and Sale on the Green in New Castle during "A Day in Old New Castle". Painting commences at 9:00 am and finished paintings are displayed on the sidewalk in front of the Courthouse Museum at 2:00 for judging and prizes. Other events are happening during the day from 10:00 am-4:00 pm. A Day In Old New Castle | Historicnewcastle 

The ACSM, together with the AAC proudly announce the next Artist Showcase on May 5th. Indulge in a bubbly reception, with sweeties, savories and lemonade to usher in Russ McKinney and his Mixed Media Spring Art Show in the Bernie Schwab Room from 1-3pm.   Meet and talk with Artist Russ McKinney, who will share his thoughts on his work at 1:30pm.     

Russ has a lifetime of large and small works, illustrations and a plethora of Arden stories portrayed though his work. Russ's Showcase will remain up though the Sunday of the Arden ACRA House Tour and purchasing of any of his items can be made during regular Museum hours including the full day of the ACRA House Tour.   

The ACSM will also be open on Saturdays from 1-3pm during the months of  May and June, so Russ's art will be available for purchase on those days too.  

Regional paintings highlighting flowers and trees by Janet Williams are on display at the Buzz Ware Community Center. The show opens Friday May 3rd 5:30-8:00, and runs for 3 weeks. The paintings include still life, and plein air paintings of Arden, parks, gardens and historical estates in Delaware and Pennsylvania. http://www.janetwilliamsart.com

Apply for our AAC group show at The Baby Grand. All information plus the application can be found here. This is the final round. You will be notified by May 1. The event is being curated by Megan King with the help of Jeanne Orr, Cookie Ohlson, and Shay Seaborne.

Pick up unsold work from the Earth Day Art Show. For large pieces, you can pull into the entrance circle. For smaller pieces, please park in the lot across the street. If you cannot make this time, please arrange with another participating artist to pick up your work. Let the curators know of this arrangement so they can note the transfer.

Join us for our semi-annual social gathering where, as artisans, we share what we are up to, network, exchange ideas and physical paraphernalia of makers, and socialize. We will start with presentations by local artisans including artist, illustrator, graphic designer Will Ramirez. Also Shay Seaborne Cptsd will be presenting: "How We Treat Each Other Changes Who We Are; the Neurobiology of Connection and Community," a virtual Lapbook Gallery presentation. Afterwards enjoy light refreshments (CAKE!) and social time with fellow art enthusiasts and artists. Optional: bring a treat to share for the table. As always we will have our trading table. Artists, bring your artwork, books, materials, and tools to share or trade! This event is open to the public: All are welcome, whether you're an artisan or simply appreciate the arts. Bring a small donation for the Buzz Ware Village Center. We look forward to seeing you there! Shay Seaborne is leading the charge on this. (Thank you, Shay for taking this on!) Contact her at shaysails@gmail.com with any questions or a desire to help/participate.

The Biggs Museum is hosting an Awards Winners XXIV Opening Reception next Thursday, April 18, 5-9pm, 406 Federal St., Dover, De 19901. The Delaware Division of the Arts has curated this exhibit to celebrate Delaware's outstanding artists for 2024. AAC Member and 2024 DDA Fellowship recipient David Burslem will have have 2 sculptures and one Sculptural Abstract Landscape in the exhibit. The exhibition will run from April 18-July 28 with traveling exhibits at CAMP Rehoboth and Cab Holloway School of the Arts to be announced.

Unique handmade lamps and shades

Perfect for Mother’s Day!
Sunday, April 7, 11 AM-3 PM
2317 Loreley Lane Ardentown
Micah: 707-208-6221
Ardenlampworks@gmail.com

The Ardens Bloom Beyond Their Borders: An Earth Day Art Celebration

Step into a vibrant tapestry of creativity as the Arden Artisans Collective bursts onto the scene for the first time ever outside the idyllic confines of the Ardens! This special Earth Day exhibit, aptly titled "Rooted in Arden, Reaching the World," brings together the diverse artistic voices of the community in a collective ode to our planet's awe-inspiring beauty and the delicate balance of nature.

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant forests of the Ardens, where 50% of the land is lovingly preserved as green space and a 75% tree canopy shelters the earth below, environmental consciousness is more than just a value – it's a way of life. This deep connection to the natural world is woven into the very fabric of the Arden Artisans Collective, a vibrant group of artists whose talents span a multitude of mediums.

Lose yourself in this sensory feast, which opens its doors in March and continues through April at the prestigious Delaware Center for Horticulture (1810 N Dupont St, Wilmington, DE 19806). Each piece, from forest scenes to sun-drenched collages crafted from recycled materials, is a unique expression of the artists' deep appreciation for the environment, inviting viewers to contemplate our interconnectedness with nature and inspiring us to become stewards of this precious planet.

Join the celebration! Mark your calendar for the special Art Loop reception on Friday, April 5th, 5:30-8 PM, where you can meet the artists, mingle with fellow art enthusiasts, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the Arden community.

"Rooted in Arden, Reaching the World" is more than just an art exhibition; it's a reminder that environmental consciousness and artistic expression go hand in hand. Come discover the boundless creativity that flourishes when a community lives in harmony with the natural world.

Remember:

• The exhibit is on display during from March 7th through April 28th at the Delaware Center for Horticulture.

• There's a special Art Loop reception on Friday, April 5th, 5:30-8 PM.

• Visit the Delaware Center for Horticulture at 1810 N Dupont St, Wilmington, DE 19806.

Monthly Meeting of AAC Steering Committee

Arden Artisan Janet Williams showcases her work in the "Art of the Flower" exhibit at the Philadelphia Sketch Club (235 South Camac St., Philadelphia, PA 19107) until March 24th.

Closing reception this Sunday, 1-3 PM.
See it in person or learn more: https://sketchclub.org/
#ArdenArtisan #ArtOfTheFlower #PHLArt

Have an art event coming up for April or later? A gallery opening, craft show, magazine article? Put it on our calendar. Submit your copy-ready description of event as well as all details to ardenartisans@gmail.com

Drop off accepted artwork for the Earth Day Art Exhibit. For Large pieces, pull into the circle at entrance. Smaller pieces, please park across the street. Artists may drop off business cards or cards for upcoming exhibits at the same time. Please provide small clear plastic stands for all cards.

Apply for our AAC group show at The Baby Grand. All information plus the application can be found here. You will be notified by April 1. The event is being curated by Megan King with the help of Jeanne Orr, Cookie Ohlson, and Shay Seaborne.

Have an art event coming up for March or later? Put it on our calendar. Submit your copy-ready description of event as well as all details to ardenartisans@gmail.com

LOVE. and ACSM

What's not to love about the Arden Craft Shop Museum!  Let's raise a glass of cheer in the spirit of love while we usher in Valentine's week and celebrate the marriage between the Craft Museum with the Arden Artisans' Collective.

Valentines's Day celebrates LOVE, and that's what's going on at the Museum on Sunday February 11th, when Clare Consavage, Ardentown resident, graces us with her unending creativity and love of all things handcrafted.   The event is from 1pm-3pm.  Meet Clare at 1:30 when she gives us her short talk in the Bernie Schwab Room with pink bubbles in hand!.  

Her are some of Clare's thoughts, to ponder in advance!

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” -Thomas Merton

I have always found this to be true as I work in many mediums to create fine, applied and wearable art. In recent years, I have gravitated to oil paint where I can take the time to lose myself in a painting with detail and realism. On the flip side, when I would like to create in a more abstract and loose manner, I use acrylic fluid art techniques. At times, I combine these two(or more) approaches into one piece of art which also creates a beautiful balance. Whether you would like to find something for your Valentine or if you just want to enjoy some art & culture before the Super Bowl, please stop by and say hello!

This month’s Art Loop at the Buzz features the work of 14 up and coming artists ranging in age from 9 to 18 years old. Come out and see what the youth art scene is all about in the Ardens. Refreshments provided. Donations accepted.

A day to relax, inspire, socialize, strategize, and open to possibilities. We will start the day with meditation and journaling. After that we will have a breakfast welcome and an AAC meeting to determine our agenda for 2024 and beyond. After the meeting we will hear from the Delaware Division of the Arts about what opportunities the state has for artists and artist groups. The day includes lunch and a choice of speakers after lunch to inspire further. For more details see our web page and FAQ’s on the event. Then fill out an application because spots are limited.

Our objectives for the event:

*Set our intentions for our individual creative practices and set an agenda for collective initiatives for 2024… and beyond.

*Define leadership and support roles for the AAC

*Hear speakers that will inspire us and/or help us as artisans grow in our practice.

*Best of all…an opportunity to socialize and network with other artisans in your community

Arden’s stop on the Wilmington Loop is the Buzz Ware Village Center as both gallery and market. The gallery features the AAC/Arden Artisans Collective's smaller works priced for holiday giving. The market proffers a variety of AAC/local art. This is a great opportunity for Art Loopers to peruse and purchase unique works and gifts made by Arden Artisans and support the local art scene. Complimentary refreshments will be provided.