river arts chestertown

We were spending the night in Chestertown and after a quick walk through the Farmer's Market on a rainy Saturday morning we walked to the River Arts location. It is the holiday season and I am always on the lookout for interesting items as gifts. We walked through the gift shop and saw many interesting creations from local artists. We also stopped by a glass artist's studio and spoke to the couple that created the lovely glass pieces. If only I had a million dollars - I would have bought it all!!!!

River Arts is a wonderful addition to the Chestertown Downtown area. It showcases a variety of local artists' works including jewelry, photographs, ceramics, weavings, and paintings, to name a few. It is run by local citizens with frequently hold events and classes. It is a "must" stop if you're visiting or even as a local noting how items change frequently.

A wide variety of items by Local artists and craftsmen for sale. Jewelry, paintings, photographs, sculpture, pottery, etc. a great place to grind that perfect one of a kind item for yourself or as a gift.

The gallery is changed each month with art focused on a theme for the month. The art is produced from local and national artists. Pottery, paintings, wood, jewelry, scarfs, etc all handmaid and offered for purchase. First Friday evenings in each month are always popular with wine and finger food offered to all visitors. Several events throughout the year draw visitors from throughout the Northeast. Check their website for updates and workshops.

The local art community makes this place tick. Frequent events and show make this a must visit place in a town that is loaded with Artists and art lovers. First Friday of most months they have new and fresh exhibits. Recently the Christmas Gift shop - items by local artisans that sell for under a $100 made interesting viewing. The cut decorative glass studio opposite the gallery is not to be missed.

The new gallery is stunning and a beautiful showcase for the many talented artists that participate in shows. First Friday is a must. Also, don't miss the Holiday Galleria that is coming up.

The merger of Chestertown's two arts organizations has produced a vibrant experience for arts appreciators, including an engaging new gallery and gift shop and many new exhibits, classes and lectures. (PS the photo is of an old gallery space, not the new gallery.)Definitely stop by the RiverArts gallery and gift shop when you are in Chestertown.

RiverArts is in a new location in Chestertown, and has a lovely gallery. The gift shop had a nice variety, some particularly beautiful wood pieces. Lots of items under $100. I plan on doing a good bit of my holiday shopping here (and giving my husband a wishlist for me...). We enjoyed the free Studio Tour.

My first visit here was for a class on photographing the illuminated Downrigging tall ships at night. The staff members were all extremely warm and friendly, and the building is lovely and welcoming. After the class I spent at least half an hour looking at the small collection of wonderful local art. Great place to shop for work featuring the schooner Sultana or local wildlife, as well as beautiful jewelry and fine woodworking.

Come on a Saturday morning and take part in one of the best Farmers Markets on the Eastern Shore. The street along Fountain park is lined with local farmers, bakers and craftsman defining the word "fresh". Fresh flowers, vegetables, bread and baked goods mixed together with hand-made candles, soaps and crafts.

Chester River Craft & Art School closed 10 years ago and was replaced by Chester River Artworks, a non profit located at 306 Park Row across from the Town Green. Artworks has a lovely small gallery with shows that change monthly as well as a shop with local fine art and craft items. Classes are offered in a variety of media including ceramic which are taught in a large Clay Studio located at a different venue in Worton, MD. See www.artworkschestertown.org for more information.