Arts at Canal Place

Arts at Canal Place Closing Its Doors December 31, 2011

2011-12-15T16:57:00.001-05:00

After nearly 9 years in the Shops at Canal Place, the Arts at Canal Place Co-op Gallery will be closing its doors. After many months of study by a Sustainability Committee and discussing ways to keep the gallery open in the fragile economy, on Tuesday December 13th, the membership voted to close on December 31, 2011.
Arts at Canal Place opened on May 1, 2003 as one of the original shops at Canal Place, offering fine arts and crafts to the community. The shop has remained open 7 days a week staffed by member artists. Many local artists from the tri-state area have participated in this unique business. Seven of the current 27 participating artists are founding members.

The co-op members wish to express their gratitude to the community and their loyal customers who purchased artwork for themselves and gifts for others. "Our thanks are extended to the Allegany Arts Council whose generosity made the gallery possible and supported it through the years", said Jean Barnes Downs the current gallery coordinator.

A program of the Allegany Arts Council, Arts at Canal Place offered opportunities for artists of all media to exhibit their work. The gallery provided a venue for sales and promoted relationships with other artists for networking and growth.

December has been designated as Customer Appreciation Month and the featured artist show in the gallery loft highlights the work of many of the member artists. Stop by in the next few weeks, say goodbye, and pick up some unique gifts. If you are holding a Gift Certificate from the gallery, please be sure to come by to redeem it before December 31.

The gallery is located in the Shops at Canal Place, 16 Howard St., Cumberland. Hours are 10-6 daily, with extended hours until 8:00 p.m. on December 16 and 17. There is free parking in the Canal Place lot on Howard St. The phone number is 301-777-8199. After the closing of the gallery, artist contact information will be available on the website at www.artsatcanalplace.com .

Unique Gifts for Unique People - show opening Dec 11th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm

2011-12-10T10:17:00.001-05:00

Arts at Canal Place invites you to Celebrate!
Unique Gifts for Unique People
Open House December 11, 2-4
Live Music & hors d'oeuvres
Celebrate Art and Creativity
The Artists of Arts at Canal Place invite you to the special Open House, and to come us in the month of December so we can say Thank You to you, and so you and the community can see the unique gifts available . Elegant or whimsical, these distinctive offerings have been handcrafted or painted by talented local artists and reflect the high quality that says to the recipient, "You are a treasured part of my life. Thank you!"

Arts at Canal Place is a program of the Allegany Arts Council and showcases the work of over thirty local artists. Located at 10 Howard Street, Cumberland, in the Shops at Canal Place Heritage Area and free parking is available - Open 10-6 daily and until 8 on Saturdays during December

Stop by on BLACK FRIDAY November 25th 10:00 am till 9:00 pm

2011-11-24T08:52:00.000-05:00

Stop by on BLACK FRIDAY November 25th 10:00 am till 9:00 pm
Gift with Purchase During Tree Lighting Ceremony Downtown 6 - 9:00 pm
~ Great Hand Crafted Christmas Gifts ~
With Free Gift Wrapping!

Decoys, Jewelry, Paintings,Photography, Pottery, Printmaking,Sculpture, Iron, Driftwood and Stone Art, Stained Glass, Ceramics.
All made in the Tri-State Area!

The Gallery will have refreshments, a cozy, warm fire pit, and some
cool and interesting artists! Also visit the Cumberland Trail
Connection – open 12 Noon till 9:00 pm with refreshments.

BEAUTY IN ACRYLICS Reception Saturday, November 5, 2011 8-10pm

2011-11-01T19:18:00.000-04:00

Arts at Canal Place invite you to an opening for their featured artist, Stacie Hettel. View nature and our surroundings as painted in acrylic by Stacie from her photographs and those of other members of the gallery. Stacie’s work will be featured during the entire month of November.

BEAUTY IN ACRYLICS
Reception on Saturday, November 5, 2011 8-10pm
At the Gallery at Canal Place (Shops at Canal Place)
16 Howard Street, B-12 Cumberland, MD 21502

Wine and refreshments will be served.

"ITTY BITTY 2" SHOW Featuring Work by Mary "Macee" McCunn September 25, 2011 to October 30, 2011

2011-09-26T20:23:00.004-04:00

"ITTY BITTY 2" SHOW
Featuring Work by Mary "Macee" McCunn

September 25, 2011 to October 30, 2011

Arts at Canal Place co-op is featuring the solo jewelry work of member artist, Mary "Macee" McCunn in “Itty Bitty 2”. McCunn will be present to discuss her work and greet visitors at the Opening Reception with Refreshments on Saturday, October 1st, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

McCunn is known for her sculptural jewelry that has an antiqued textural appearance and includes earrings, necklaces, rings and other items made of silver, brass, steel and copper, yet with a subtle primitive appearance. All work is handmade through the forging process as performed by many blacksmiths and metalsmiths from the earliest of times.

The typical feel of her current works will be available, but also a repeat of her new dainty and more delicate line of necklaces, earrings, bangles and rings called "Itty Bitty" that was introduced last fall. The new line is perfect for those who want the look that the artist is known for, but that want something more light and airy to wear. "I constantly re-evaluate my merchandise and listen to what the customers want and the "Itty Bitty" line adds another choice so there is something for everyone for the holiday gift giving season" says McCunn.

You can learn more about McCunn, her upcoming shows and where you can purchase her work at other galleries by visiting her blog at www.meadowbrookarts.blogspot.com or Meadowbrook Arts on Facebook.

McCunn’s work can also be found at Lost River Artisan Cooperative, Gifts Inn Boonsboro, The Gallery (Oakland, MD) , and Mountain Made (Thomas, WV).

"RAKU" Featuring work by Steve Sullivan Steve Sullivan August 21, 2011 - Sept 24, 2011

2011-08-21T12:13:00.005-04:00

Stop by Arts at Canal Place on Saturday, August 27th between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. to meet this months featured artist, potter Steve Sullivan. This month's show in the loft features recent wall-hung and freestanding Raku and Pit-Fired work. Steve will also have a variety of functional work on display on the first floor of the gallery. Refreshments will be served.

Steve graduated with a degree from Frostburg State University and shortly thereafter spent two years in Japan, that had a profound effect on his perspective as an artist. He studied wood-block prints, pottery, sculpture, architecture, paintings and photographs. What he saw broadened his perspective, helping him further appreciate, define and create art. His goal, whether throwing, glazing, altering, decorating or firing a pot, is to create surfaces that reflect the process and forces that go into turning a piece of clay into a finely crafted piece of art. Steve now lives in Frostburg, Maryland, where he works as a full-time potter from his home studio. He typically works in mid-range, stoneware, Raku and pit-fired ceramics. Occasionally, he wood-fires or soda-fires at the facilities at Frostburg State University with a dedicated group of local potters.

Steve's work can be found at Arts at Canal Place in Cumberland, Mountain City Traditional Arts in Frostburg, The Gallery Shop in Oakland and Gifts Inn Boonsboro in, where, else, Boonsboro.

Plein Air Pastel Workshop with Patricia Hilton, September 23-24, 2011

2011-08-14T11:38:00.008-04:00

Experience the excitement of learning about and painting outdoors with pastels—an accessible, portable art medium. This workshop will prepare participants to paint ‘en plein air’ (in the open air). Discussion will include interpreting a scene; endeavoring to capture the quality of light; and conveying an individual viewpoint—through use of color and contrast, and depicting reflected light. The class will begin on Friday afternoon with a discussion focused on a set of examples. Guidance will be provided to help participants plan and prepare for working in the open air. The next day, the group will work outdoors; or in the case of inclement weather, outdoors under shelter. The cost of the workshop is $75; deadline for registration is September 9. For full information, call 301-461-2379. To register, visit Arts at Canal Place, 16B Howard Street in Cumberland.

Arts at Canal Place Presents “REFLECTIVITY” Featuring the Art of Liz Braun July 3, 2011 – August 5, 2011

2011-07-04T12:00:00.003-04:00

“REFLECTIVITY”

Featuring the Art of

Liz Braun

July 3, 2011 – August 5, 2011
Opening Reception, Saturday, July 9th, 6-8 pm

The current featured artist exhibition at the Arts at Canal Place Gallery is Liz Braun’s "Reflectivity" which will run July 3rd thru August 5th.

“My non-commissioned work is primarily concerned with sensual/emotional concepts, often incorporating body parts or images, and words,” says Liz. “My cast glass pieces are fairly personal, though now and then I do a purely whimsical piece. Kiln forming glass allows me to push the envelope with experimentation and feels like a dialogue, a co-creation with the glass itself. I am drawn toward more abstract creations and large forms or well-designed functional art such as sconces or sinks.”

“Exploring aspects of myself in ways that speak to a universal human condition appeals to me most and is probably what drives my work. I have always had to juggle ways to live and work and make things around me happen, and an attitude of challenge, discovery, and invention suffuses my art, which has always dealt with many themes and ideas simultaneously.”

“The most satisfying projects for me are the most difficult, both in technique and concept. I was trained in France in 1980/81, in traditional leaded stained glass methods. I taught myself copper foil, then fusing and other warm glass techniques. In the mid-late 90's I began to take classes with renowned glass masters like Brent Kee Young, Doug Anderson, Anna Boothe, and most recently, Richard Whitely. The skills I have acquired, along with a strong sense of curiosity and intuition, allow me to create almost anything I envision.”

“I enjoy the discipline necessary to produce intricate, precise installations in my commissioned projects, which keeps me involved with architecture and design. After 25 years (In 1986, I opened Elizabeth's Glassworks in Old Town, Alexandria, VA) I still find great satisfaction in creating a window, a door, lighting fixture, or other elements that become an integral part of an existing structure, as well as making a statement about the owners.” Ms. Braun has recently re-located to West Virginia.

Arts At Canal Place Invites You To The "THROUGH MY LENS" Show

2011-05-24T14:44:00.001-04:00

Photography by Margie Gacki

May 22, 2011 – July 2, 2011

Opening Reception, Saturday, June 4th, 6-8 pm

This show will feature photography by Margie Gacki of Cumberland. The exhibit will feature Margie's photographs spotlighting Western Maryland - the natural beauty of the mountains and some of the area's popular attractions, including the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad's "Mountain Thunder" steam engine, Cumberland landmarks and the C&O Canal.

Margie became a member of Arts at Canal Place in the summer of 2010 after her position of 19 years as Medical Librarian of the Western Maryland Health System was eliminated at the end of June. She started her own company, Faith Productions of Cumberland after encouragement from her friends to do more with her photography. With all the natural beauty in Western Maryland, Margie is always looking for new places to visit and photograph to showcase this beautiful area.

Margie's work is available at the gallery in many formats: matted and framed photos, photos that are just matted, and note cards. For more information call Arts at Canal Place at 301-777-8199. Margie’s web site, www.faithproductionsofcumberland.com, offers many other items that feature her photography. Also on the web site are photo galleries with more of her images. Margie also offers a variety of photography services, including photographing special events, PowerPoint presentation design, image usage licenses, and more.

Classes at Arts at Canal Place - Watercolor for Beginners

2011-03-31T14:42:00.002-04:00

Watercolor for Beginners May 11 – June 1, 2011 Wednesdays, 6:00-8:00pm Instructor Bobbi Dubins Watercolor for Beginners A low-key, fun class designed for absolute beginners! In this hands-on introduction to watercolor painting, students will be introduced to basic techniques of watercolor such as how to accomplish the "dreamy" feeling of traditional watercolor painting, how to correct mistakes (contrary to what most people believe, you can "erase" mistakes in watercolor), how to get colors to blend together smoothly, how to paint "wet-on-wet" to get that loose, free flowing feel watercolor is known for, and other common techniques. Materials and supplies will also be discussed. Designed for those who have no experience in art or painting (or for those who are transitioning from another medium), the focus will be on getting comfortable with techniques and learning to enjoy the process of painting. Painting has many personal benefits, not the least of which is stress reduction and personal discovery. Join us for a few weeks of enjoyment, relaxation and self-discovery, as you experiment in watercolor with other "first timers". Feel free to bring snacks or drinks. Cost: $65.00 Payment is due at the time of registration. Supply Fee: If you do not already have your own supplies there is a $25 supply fee, payable to the instructor the first night of class. Class dates: Wednesdays, May 11, 18, 25, and June 1, 2011. Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Maximum Class Size: Ten Contact the artist if you have questions regarding the workshop or if you will be needing supplies. 304-738-0054 bobbi@dubins.com www.dubins.com

Arts at Canal Place features Dynamic Flowers by Judy McCaughey April 10, 2011 - May 22, 2011

2011-03-30T14:52:00.004-04:00

Arts at Canal Place features Dynamic Flowers by Judy McCaughey

April 10, 2011 - May 22, 2011

Judy McCaughey’s watercolor paintings of Dynamic Flowers will be the featured show in the Arts at Canal Place loft at the Shops at Canal Place from April 10 to May 22, 2011. The artist reception will be held in conjunction with the Cumberland Arts Walk on Saturday, May 7, from 6-8 p.m.

McCaughey says that flowers have always been a favorite subject to paint. She likes the brilliant colors of the petals, the many shades and shapes of the green leaves, and the fact that they are willing to pose for photographs and modeling. They also don’t mind too much if she rearranges them or adjusts a petal for better effect.

McCaughey’s watercolors are the result of years of classes that began when she and her husband moved to Columbia, MD from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 1991. A retired kindergarten teacher, she wanted to write and illustrate storybooks for her grandchildren, leading her to enroll in her first drawing and painting class. When the McCaugheys moved to Deep Creek Lake nine years ago, she pursued watercolor improvement by taking many workshops from acclaimed watercolor artists at the Springmaid Beach, South Carolina, watercolor sessions. She studied color mixing and shadows under Linda Doll, pouring of paint with Jean Grastorf, and watercolor printing under Kathleen Kuchar. This past November, she worked under Diane Maxey and reviewed color mixing and design concepts using flowers as the subject. She loved it and came back to her studio and continued to paint flowers, practicing what she had learned.

The flowers in this show are portrayed using a variety of techniques – the color mixing from Linda Doll, the paint pouring from Jean Grastorf, and the abstract design ideas picked up from Diane Maxey.

McCaughey is a signature artist member of the Baltimore Watercolor Society and of the Miniature Painters, Sculptors, and Gravers Society of D.C. Her paintings are also available at The Gallery Shop in Oakland and Rocky Gap Lodge. You can visit her on her new website: www.judymccaughey.com.

A program of the Allegany Arts Council, AaCP cooperative gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours during the summer until 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. For more information, call (301)777-8199.

“Spot the Dot” Exhibition at Arts at Canal Place - Reception Feb 5th

2011-01-31T10:50:00.002-05:00

Visitors to the Spot the Dot exhibit at Arts at Canal Place won’t need a magnifying glass to have an opportunity to win a $30 gift certificate by finding the red dot, “hidden” in at least eleven of the framed pictures in the current show which lasts through February.

A reception on Saturday, February 5 from 6-8 pm at the gallery (located at 16 Howard Street in The Shops at Canal Place, in Downtown Cumberland) will give everyone an opportunity to meet some of the fifteen artists who participated in the challenges to either incorporate a red dot somewhere in their work, or to develop a still life arrangement of cube, ball, rectangle and cone into a unique arrangement by varying the size color and position of the objects.

Photography, colored pencil, monoprints, oil and acrylic painting, watercolors as well as jewelry and glass work are all featured as part of this showing of the work local artists.

The gallery is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm
Free parking is available in the lot off Howard Street.

Spot the Dot - January 9th through February 27th

2011-01-10T14:27:00.001-05:00

"Spot the Dot" will be the challenge for visitors to the Members Show at Arts at Canal Place from January 9th through February 27th. The reception will be held February 5, 2011, 6:00 - 8:00 pm.

Each piece of art will contain a red dot, and the artists are challenging the public to try to locate it while enjoying the exhibit. Consideration is being given to a reward! The co-op artists will be responding to their own challenge: Interpreting a still life arrangement containing a cube, sphere, rectangle and one other item of artist's choice, into a unique work utilizing their own imagination and skill. The show will provide an opportunity to exercise one's visual detective skills while supporting the local art scene.

CHAMPAGNE AND CHOCOLATES HOLIDAY RECEPTION - Saturday, December 4, 2010 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM

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Please join us on Saturday, December 4, 2010 * 6:30 - 8:30 PM at Arts at Canal Place Gallery.

See what is new from the studios of three local artists:

Dottie Winner

Linda Cover Holler

Echo & Wild Jewelry ~ Jeanne Gibbons

This event is open to the public, please share with your friends!

Hope to see you there!!

Show runs from December 1st to January 5th

JEANNIE GIBBONS - Principal designer for Echo & Wild Jewelry. She believes things that are handmade with love and intention deeply affect our lives. By choosing to wear them on our bodies, we honor both our history and our personal story while we support artistic endevour in a practical, daily way. Her goal is to design and create life-affirming, thought-provoking jewelry. "What speaks to me is the mythology behind the symbols. I love the stories that weave their way into our lives." In order for you to continue to enjoy them, she will include a story card with each piece of jewelry. She hopes you find jewelry in her collection, that will inspire you, as it has inspired her.

DOTTIE WINNER - Has worked almost exclusively in watercolor over the past twenty years. She paints primarily from photographs she has taken to capture special, spontaneous moments in everyday life that depict people, places and events that touch the heart. Dottie’s paintings of flowers reflect her love of color, light and the beauty ever present in nature. Her hope is that others will take time not only to “smell the roses” but also to look more closely at the magnificence of the Creator’s grand design.

LINDA COVER HOLLER - Taught art at both Fort Hill and Allegany High Schools for a total of 26 ½ years. This was after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. She also got her Masters of Art Education from Frostburg State University. “Painting was my last choice of venues in the art field until I took some instructional learning lessons in the field of watercolor from a fantastic teacher named Grace Scherer. What a life changing experience that was for me! After Grace moved away from Cumberland, I and five other struggling artists continued our learning experiences by painting together every Saturday for the past 20 years. We had such fun, worked so hard, and learned so much from each other. I truly fell in love with watercolors. This period of time has provided the most valuable artistic learning and growing experiences of my life. I found what it took to become a real artist. I love color and detail and different patterns and textures, and itty, bitty ditties in my work. I elected to do mostly animals for this show so that you can see how I have so much fun attending to these details. I have kept a record of photos of my artwork. These are kept in two books, which will be available at this show. I hope you will take the time to peruse my other paintings in these two books of my accomplishments that I have loved doing!” She does many commissions. If you are interested in your own personal watercolor painting, call her at 301-722-4381 to set up an appointment.

Mary "Macee" McCunn presents “Itty Bitty"

2010-11-03T17:48:00.005-04:00

Cumberland, MD - Arts at Canal Place co-op gallery is featuring the work of member artist, Mary "Macee" McCunn in “Itty Bitty”. The solo jewelry show opened November 1st and is going on through November 30th. McCunn will be present to discuss her work and greet visitors at the Opening Reception on Saturday, Nov. 13 from 6 to 8 p.m.

McCunn is known for her sculptural jewelry that has an antiqued textural appearance and includes earrings, necklaces, rings and other items made of silver, brass, steel and copper, yet with a subtle primitive appearance. All work is handmade through the forging process as performed by many blacksmiths and metalsmiths from the earliest of times.

The typical feel of her current works will be available, but also a new dainty and more delicate line of necklaces, earrings, bangles and rings called "Itty Bitty". The new line is perfect for those who want the look that the artist is known for, but that want something more light and airy to wear. "I constantly re-evaluate my merchandise and listen to what the customers want and the "Itty Bitty" line adds another choice so there is something for everyone for the holiday gift giving season" says McCunn.

You can learn more about McCunn and where you can find her work by visiting her website at www.meadowbrookarts.com or by reading her blog at www.meadowbrookarts.blogspot.com.

Arts at Canal Place is a local co-op artists’ gallery. Any artists that may be interested in jurying in to become a member is encouraged to call (301) 777-8199 for information regarding becoming a member. The gallery, located at 16 Howard St. among the Shops at Canal Place Heritage Area is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Arts at Canal Place - Upcoming Classes and Workshops

2010-10-11T14:19:00.004-04:00

Here are the upcoming classes and workshops. Click each link for sign-up information.

Winemaking - instructor Jim DeGeorge - October 21st & 28th (2-part series)

Masking and Pouring - instructor Dottie Winner - October 23rd

Painting Luminous Watercolors - instructor Dottie Winner - October 30th

Modern Art on Antique Machines - instructor Nancy Biggs - November 14th

Call Arts at Canal Place if you need more information - 301-777-8199.

Silent Auction to benefit Brian “B.J.” Kyle

2010-10-04T18:06:00.005-04:00

A Silent Auction event will be held in Cumberland, MD during the October 23th Arts Walk from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. It is organized and sponsored by members of the Arts at Canal Place. B.J.’s sister, Mary “Macee” McCunn is a member of AaCP and says, “I am grateful that my fellow artists, friends, family and strangers would come out to support my brother during this challenging time in his life.” Silent Auction items can be viewed beginning October 6th in the CBIZ window located near 44 Baltimore Street and bids can be placed in advance by calling the AaCP gallery at (301) 777-8199 or by visiting the CBIZ window during the Arts Walk. You will also be able to view Silent Auction items on the AaCP Facebook page on-line. A table and refreshments will be set up in front of the window where bids will be taken. Any items won can be picked up and paid for at the gallery after winners are contacted.

You can see the silent auction items here.

B.J. was diagnosed last September with a rare form of leukemia known as Large Granular Lymphocytic Leukemia (LGL). He is only 38 and is very young to have LGL. There is no cure or regular course of treatment for this cancer and so far it has required chemotherapy, regular cancer center visits and a requirement of thirty units of packed red blood cells since his hospitalization a year ago and he is still transfusion dependent.

Thank you for your generosity.

“EBB AND FLOW” Featuring the Art of Patricia Hilton September 26, 2010 – October 30, 2010 Opening Reception, Saturday, October 23rd, 5-8 pm

2010-10-04T07:26:00.003-04:00

The current featured artist show at the Arts at Canal Place Gallery is “Ebb and Flow” a collection of intimate pastels by Patricia Hilton. This show, developed over the past year, includes a collection of land and waterscapes; many created ‘en plein air’. Patricia created each of these works in pastel, a delicate medium comprising the purest and most brilliant of pigments and minimal binder. This combination creates a rich and velvety finish, and allows endless possibilities for application.

Patricia earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Communications Design from the Art Academy of Cincinnati and a Master of Fine Arts Degree with an emphasis in drawing from Indiana State University. Throughout the years Patricia has used a variety of media, and has exhibited work locally, regionally and through the Midwest.

“TILL THE COWS COME HOME” by Penny Knobel-Besa

2010-09-08T11:44:00.004-04:00

“TILL THE COWS COME HOME”
Featuring the Art of Penny Knobel-Besa
August 28, 2010 – September 25, 2010
Opening Reception, Saturday, September 11th, 5-8 pm

The current Featured Artist Exhibition at our Gallery is by Penny Knobel-Besa. This is an Arts Walk evening and the Education Center at Canal Place will also contain a photography show from “Kids Art of Photography” class taught by Knobel-Besa along with work from other art classes.

Knobel-Besa’s exhibit showcases rural images found in and around the Cumberland area as you drive down country roads; from old tractors to early morning cow milking and various vistas like “Mountain Maryland” which features our mountains through Rocky Gaps road side flowers. “While I have traveled to some interesting places to photograph I still find that the wonders of our own Allegany County and tri-state area keep my finger clinking away.” said Knobel-Besa.

“For our anniversary my artist husband Hilmar Gottesthal and I visited several covered bridges in Bedford County which will be included in this exhibition as giclee prints (photos printed on canvas to resemble painting). Inside each of the bridges there were the traditional initials and messages like…I Love U 4 EVA. So of course I had to include some of those…and I managed to steal a kiss from my husband in each bridge!”

Many photographers in the past have found the perfect model for their photography and Angela Hedderick has become that model for Knobel-Besa. In addition, Hedderick’s two children have also enjoyed photography and modeling. Four years old Katie Hedderick also modeled for the Kids Photography Class and a photo of her by Maranda Allen is featured in the Education Center exhibition. Her brother Alex Hedderick who took the class has several of his photos featured like “Curiosity” with his cat face to face with a frog.
Meanwhile mother, Angela not only played milk maid with her cow but brought the cow in from a neighboring field for the photo shoot which resulted in the title photo as the cow was nearly doing the speed limit of 30 miles per hour down the road back to= the pasture.

So be sure to visit both the loft exhibition to see Knobel-Besa’s “Till The Cows Come Home” and the education center to meet the student artists. For information about “Art of Photography” classes which start September 19th call (301) 478-2735 or email pkbphotos@hughes.net
This is a co-op gallery which operates as a program under the Allegany Arts Council and is located at 10 Howard Street, Cumberland, MD in the Shops at Canal Place Heritage Area. Several co-op members will be demonstrating their crafts at the Education Center from blacksmithing to bee keeping. The gallery is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. located among the shops at Canal Place. For more information call (301) 777-8199 www.artsatcanalplace.com . Free parking is available in the lot off Howard Street.

“SUPERSIZED” July 26th to August 28th

2010-07-28T15:54:00.004-04:00

Opening Reception – Saturday, August 7th – 6:00-8:00 pm

The community will have an opportunity to see how the artists at the Arts at Canal Place cooperative gallery "supersize" their art. In keeping with the concept developed by your favorite fast-food restaurants, Arts at Canal Place has decided to “supersize” this next exhibit, and give its artist members an opportunity to show off their extra large, oversized works in the upstairs loft area. These artists have some super talent, and can work in super size, but space in the lower level of the gallery is usually at a premium, since it is filled with jewelry, pottery, wood, and the many other 3-dimensional items that are always available for sale.

The "Supersized" exhibition in the upstairs loft gallery will feature a variety of photography, paintings and sculptural artwork.

More new classes added at Arts at Canal Place...

2010-07-22T10:14:00.004-04:00

...including new classes for children aged 6 to 18. Here are the complete details:

Upcoming Arts Class Schedule

If you have any additional questions, please call the gallery during regular business hours at 301-777-8199.

Upcoming Classes at Arts at Canal Place

2010-07-08T20:54:00.007-04:00

Upcoming Art Classes:

Fun with Art III - How the Color Wheel Turns - July 14th, 2010

Fun with Art III - Candles & Crayons & Watercolor - July 21st, 2010

Beginners Calligraphy - July 22nd, 2010

Mixed Media Madness I - July 24th, 2010

Fun with Art III - Art can be what it isn't - July 29th, 2010

Mixed Media Madness II - July 31st, 2010

Playing with Hand Cranked Sewing Machines, Paper & Fabric - Aug 5th, 2010

Mixed Media Madness III - Aug 7th, 2010

Basketweaving - Aug 8th, 2010

Creative Paper Techniques - Aug 12th, 2010

Matting your Artwork - Aug 14th, 2010

Creative Paper Techniques - Aug 19th, 2010

Creative Paper Techniques - Aug 26th, 2010

Check back often...more classes coming soon...

“Nature’s Beauty” featuring local artists Anita Teter and Mike Williams

2010-06-22T09:42:00.001-04:00

From June 20 through July 24, the Arts at Canal Place Gallery in Cumberland will present a new exhibition entitled “Nature’s Beauty,” featuring local artists Anita Teter and Mike Williams. An Opening Reception will be held on Saturday, June 26th from 6-8PM. Everyone is invited, and both artists will be in attendance.

Anita works in acrylic, watercolor, and colored pencil to illustrate the beauty she sees in nature all around. "Every thing has its own unique beauty in nature,” says Anita, “and although we try, nothing can compare to the splendor that God has lavished on us." Anita studied art at Berea College in Kentucky, but didn't pursue art seriously until 1995 when she walked into a classroom in Oakland, Maryland taught by Louise Kitzmiller. Impressed by what she saw, Anita began painting again after 30 years. As she studied and experimented with different art forms, she has focused on realistic impressionism.

Mike believes true undiluted beauty is found in nature. For over 20 years, he has been creating a variety of natural wood sculpture made from wood and stone that he finds in his walks through the hills and dells of West Virginia. Mike doesn't change the pieces he finds very much. He says nature does a good job of that already.

Located in the Canal Place Heritage Area in Downtown Cumberland, Arts at Canal Place is a cooperative gallery featuring artwork by over 30 area artists. Arts at Canal Place is open every day from 10AM-6PM, with extended hours until 8PM on Fridays, Saturdays. For more information, please visit www.artsatcanalplace.com, or call Arts at Canal Place at 301-777-8199.

3 Day Theatre and Arts Camp

2010-06-18T22:24:00.003-04:00

Is there a princess or prince living at your house or an art lover? For kids, age 6 to 16, director, Penny Knobel-Besa will hold a “3 Day Kids Theatre and Arts Camp”. Classes will meet July 19, 21, and 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.
Students should bring a picnic lunch and drink.

Sessions cover a wide aspect of theatre and art from acting to stage make up, costuming, and set design.

The students will learn stage terms and blocking during musical theatre exercises and games. They will gain in self-confidence, poise, and self-discipline.

There is a hands-on theatre make up class, with costumes, props for skits, and puppets. There will be improvisation time, learn the mime walk, and read scenes from Cinderella, Snow White, to Charlie Brown; and West Side Story.

Everyday there will be an arts opportunity relating to theatre. Design costuming, create fantasy make up, draw scenes and sets. Students should come dressed to move easily,
More information email pkbphotos@hughes.net or call (301) 478-2735. Fee is $60. Deadline to register July 16 at 5 p.m.

About the Instructor:
Penny Knobel-Besa is a fine arts photographer, playwright, and director. She was named Maryland Photographer of the Year, received a national award from the Big Sisters-Big Brothers, and her photos often appear in the national award winning literary magazine the “Antietam Review”. She’s a directed and produced a children’s musical, “Under Your Pillow” Off-Broadway in New York and establishing a theatre arts academy her in Cumberland.

She founded Maryland Theatre Arts Company (MTA Co) in 1978 in Baltimore and moved it here when the arts community requested her to create a “Children’s theatre Project” . As a result she produce children’s plays at the Cumberland Theatre 1995, Palace Theatre 1996, and at the Embassy Theatre 1997-98. Most recently she has become known for her series of classes for adults who enjoy spending time with their camera; “The Art of Photography” held at her own “Sanctuary Studios”. The next session will begin in mid-September 2010.

Kids Photo Classes – July 26 – 28 - 30

2010-06-18T22:20:00.003-04:00

Kids “Art of Photography” classes are scheduled at Arts At Canal Place Education Center for young people ages 8 to 18 who enjoy taking photographs. They will learn some of the basic photographic rules that are as easy as drawing a tic tack toe game. There are three sessions ending with a mini exhibition of their work at the center. There are fun home shooting assignments between classes like photograph something red, shoot part of a car, and interesting shadows. The class is geared towards developing the artistic eye of the student.

Students must have a working camera and know how to use it, bring the instruction booklet along if available. Camera may be 35 mm, digital or even disposable (for disposable get flash variety). They are each responsible to bring a working camera, necessary memory cards, batteries and film if needed, (400 speed is recommended). It will be very frustrating to bring a camera and then find that it doesn’t work. So please test and use the camera prior to the class and develop the photos to assure that it is in working order.

There will be a total of three sessions: 1) how to take better photos & photo montage activity, 2) field trip around the Education Center area including the Scenic train station, C & O Canal, and canal boat. Parents of younger children are invited to hang out with us on the field trip. 3) Photos taken on prior days must be developed 4 x 6 brought to Friday’s session to be reviewed & CD also is recommended. We will also cover matting, framing, and card making.

For interested students there will be an opportunity to sign up for an additional private session with the instructor to explore adobe photo shop using their photos. The basic tools will be reviewed with hands on chance to practice improving their photographs as well as learning how to create new works of art with the computer.

Your family and friends are invited to the opening reception on the date selected by the group and myself. A press release and photo will be sent to the Times News to invite the general public. The sessions will meet on Monday July 26, from 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday July 28 from 9 to 11 to catch the morning light, Friday July 30 will be 1 to 3 p.m.

More information email pkbphotos@hughes.net or call Penny Knobel-Besa (301) 478-2735. Registration fee is $60 per child. Deadline to register July 24^th at 5 p.m.

“POTPOURRI” Featuring the Art of Susan Brimo-Cox May 17 – June 19

2010-05-19T10:21:00.005-04:00

May 17, 2010 – June 19, 2010
Opening Reception, Saturday, May 22nd, 6-8 p.m.

Brimo-Cox’s show will contain a collection of works across a variety of mediums. Included will be flame-worked glass beads, enameling, jewelry, monotype nature prints, hand-dyed silk scarves and metalsmithing.

Brimo-Cox is known for working across multiple mediums, and yet there seems to be a tie-in among them. Much of her work is an organic, earthy, reflection of nature and natural elements in the world around us. In fact, the Ohiopyle, Pa.-based artist gets much of her inspiration from the local area and its picturesque geography. But she also tends towards whimsical designs on occasion. Explaining the variety of her art for the upcoming exhibit, Brimo-Cox says, ―Spring has sprung and there are many things happening in nature right now. Trees are leafing out. Flowers are blooming. Animals are coming out of hibernation. It’s like a kaleidoscope of activity. So, as a reflection of the bursting forth of creativity in nature, I am busy working in a variety of mediums. There will be new designs and new work in the exhibition. Something else you can expect to see in my artwork this time of year is a lot of color.

Primarily a glass artist, Brimo-Cox began glass beadmaking in 2002. In making flame worked glass beads, Brimo-Cox starts with rods of colored glass. The rods are heated in the flame of a torch and carefully melted, blended and decorated into their final form. She uses a variety of different decoration techniques—from simple to complex—using, for example, stringers, enamels, reduction frits and metal foils. The beads she creates run the gamut from brightly colored to earthy. The glass beads are then annealed in a kiln for strength.

Enameling also is glass work. In the enameling process, glass powders are applied to metals, such as copper, and melted and fused onto the metal using a kiln. In some cases the metal is formed and shaped before being enameled, which led Brimo-Cox to try her hand at metalsmithing. Hand-raised and fold-formed copper bowls and dishes are items the artist enjoys making, but she doesn’t have the opportunity very often because of the specialized tools needed.

Brimo-Cox’s love of nature and plants is readily seen in her monotype nature print creations. She uses natural plant materials, such as leaves, ferns and grasses, to make the one-of-a-kind prints. Colors in Brimo-Cox’s monotypes tend towards ocher, greens, cranberry red and deep blues. The leaves she uses are typically from tree and shrub species native to the region.
A medium very different from Brimo-Cox’s other artistic work is silk scarf dying, but the challenge of working with textiles and dyes interests her a lot. ―The folding, twisting and clamping of the silk fabric to achieve a variety of designs can lead to unexpected results and many happy surprises. Sometimes the pattern of color is quite interesting and eye-catching. And some are drab. Silk scarf dying is very much a medium in which experiments can lead to rich rewards, Brimo-Cox explains.

Brimo-Cox was born in Philadelphia and grew up in eastern Pennsylvania. In 1976, she earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Wilkes University. After spending several years in southeastern Virginia and Hawaii, she now calls the Laurel Highlands of southwestern Pennsylvania home. She and her husband, Wm. Lloyd Cox Jr., an artist-blacksmith, sell their art work under the business name Chestnut Ridge Studio & Forge. Brimo-Cox is a member of numerous art organizations, including Arts at Canal Place, the Allegany Arts Council, the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, the Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor’s ―Handmade along the Highway Artisan Trail, the International Society of Glass Beadmakers, Three Rivers Glass Beadmakers, Touchstone Center for Crafts, and the Uniontown Art Club. Her work is exhibited and sold through galleries and other venues in Pennsylvania and in Cumberland, Md. In addition to being an artist, Brimo-Cox is a public relations professional, award-winning garden writer and photographer, and a dedicated observer of nature.

AaCP Education Center Opens Doors to Activities and Classes

2010-04-16T10:19:00.005-04:00

Cumberland, MD – The Arts at Canal Place Education Center opened its doors to its first class on April 7th, with an adult Finger Painting drop-in session taught by Jean Barnes Downs. The Education Center is adjacent to the Gallery at Canal Place and is holding an Open House on May 8 during the Allegany Arts Council sponsored Arts Walk from 5-8 p.m. That evening, activities in the Education Center will be geared towards kids creating something for their mother to give for Mother’s Day. Anyone can stop in to check out the Education Center during the Open House and kids can participate in the free activities.

Also coming up in the Education Center is a large number of additional exciting classes. April continues with Wednesday evening adult drop-in classes from 6:30 to 8 p.m. titled “Fun With Paste” on April 21 and “Breath Painting” on April 28, taught by Jean Barnes Downs. Tuition will be $10 per session with an additional minimal materials fee. Downs will also teach a two day workshop that will introduce students to using contour, gesture, collage and color to record their travels using historic downtown Cumberland for their inspiration in “Traveling With Your Sketchbook” on April 24 & 25.

Immediately following that class will be an exploration of pigments using a limited palette of colors in “Watercolor Techniques: Color” on May 8, and trying a new approach to painting by “Pouring Watercolor” May 15 by award winning watercolorist, Dottie Winner.

Also continuing will be another series in May of “Playing with Art: It’s Never Too Late” part two of the drop-in classes instructed this time by local artist Nancy Biggs. These adult classes will include “Unique Wrapping Papers: Painted, Rubbed, Stamped, Folded & Dyed” May 12, “Red Yellow Blue, What Can You Do: Landscapes” May 19, and “Wondering About Weaving: Looms” May 26. There will also be “Beginner’s Origami” May 22 and “It’s All About Paper” June 12, by Linda Stewart and “Pastels: Vibrant and Direct” June 26 & 27, taught by Patricia Hilton. Jean Barnes Downs is offering, “Learning in Retirement – A Drawing Class” June 3 – July 1, and “The Artist’s Way” June 7 – August 30, a Discussion Group and finally, Pennsylvania based artist Loretta Radeschi will be teaching a “Basket Weaving” class where the student will make a square storage basket. The class will be held on July 10 and is appropriate for someone with no weaving experience.

To view detailed descriptions of all classes, dates, times, fees and other class requirements visit www.artsatcanalplace.com or to enroll, contact the Allegany Arts Council at 301-777-2787.

The instructors for the current classes are or were all artists involved with the Arts at Canal Place, a local co-op artists’ gallery; however, teaching opportunities are available to non-members. If anyone is interested in adding a unique and fun class to the line-up, contact the gallery at 301-777-8199. The gallery, located at 16 Howard St. among the Shops at Canal Place Heritage Area is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Jim Cumiskey tries some finger painting

Wendy Watkins creates a mandala using vegatables

Featured Artist Show - “ONE DOT AT A TIME” by Richard Shuck April 12, 2010 – May 15, 2010

2010-04-12T10:20:00.005-04:00

Opening Reception, Saturday, April 17th, 5-8 pm

“One dot at a time. That’s how I do it. Pen and Ink. Only dots. No lines.” says Cumberland artist Richard Shuck. A member of the Arts at Canal Place Coop, Shuck will begin the gallery’s Featured Artist 2010 season with his show of drawings, "One Dot at a Time”.

Shuck’s remarkable drawings are done exclusively in pen and ink dots without line. With patience and tenacity the artist works his way toward a completed subject. Shuck’s technique is called Stippling and is often confused with Pointillism first used by the Impressionists in the 19th Century. Stippling uses dots of only black ink while Pointillism is the application of dots of paint using Primary colors of red, yellow and blue that optically mix to produce the Secondary colors of orange, green and purple. Stippling is done by placing dots of black ink on white paper.
If a darker area is desired, the artist puts the dots closer together. Fewer dots placed further apart create lighter areas. First Shuck makes a very loose pencil drawing with little detail. The artist then begins to apply the ink dots with an assortment of mechanical pen sizes on the smooth paper surface. He erases the light pencil as he progresses through the work. Shuck says, “My artwork is often mistaken for pencil, charcoal, and even computer generated work. Believe it or not, it has even been mistaken for photography!”
Because of the detail, one drawing can take many hours to complete. Shuck’s work is amazing in its accurate representation of each subject whether it is a landscape, the portrait of a famous person or a local scene, and his skill as a draftsman is remarkable. “One Dot at a Time” will include several original drawings as well as giclee reproductions. The artist will be present to discuss his work at the Opening Reception.

This event is free and open to the public.

Artist Spotlight - Mike Williams

2010-03-25T11:20:00.006-04:00

The artist Michael Williams resides in Keyser, West Virginia. He has always believed "True beauty is all around us in nature." This reflects in his unique sculptures using materials carved out by timeless exposure to the elements. The wood and stone used in his sculptures are handpicked from the riverbeds and forests of the West Virginia Mountains.

Michael takes frequent walks in the woods to find the perfect piece of wood that reflects the wonder of nature. The wood is taken to his studio to dry, after which it is cut and scraped to the hard core. It is then cleaned and a preservative is applied, prior to the final finish. When the piece is completed, to his satisfaction, it is either mounted to a stone base using steel pins or brass rods, or will be left free standing. Some of the tone bases have fossil imprints adding to the interest of the piece. Most of the free standing pieces are of a surrealist nature and will be accompanied by a framed description of his concept. His pieces are currently being shown in New Jersey, Maryland and West Virginia.

Please stop by Arts at Canal Place to view Mike's newest additions to the gallery.

"In the Belly of the Beast" The world today is in constant threat of nuclear destruction by unstable world leaders, terrorist attacks in the name of religion, pollution by its own inhabitants, and some theorize, global warming. Hence the concept of "In the Belly of the Beast."

"Apocalypse" "There shall be famines and pestilences"

Arts at Canal Place To Present Classes

2010-03-19T09:43:00.003-04:00

Cumberland, MD – “Playing With Art – It’s Never Too Late” taught by Jean Barnes Downs will be the first series of classes to be conducted in the Arts at Canal Place Education Center, adjacent to the Gallery at Canal Place.

If you would love to get your hands dirty with finger paint or color outside the lines with no one looking over your shoulder, here is your opportunity. This four week class is designed for adults who want to play, with no expectations, once again with art materials like they did when they were children. The class is designed to be a drop-in class, so participants can sign up for individual sessions or for the entire series. Class will be held on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The class will begin on April 7 and run through April 28th and each evening will include a different activity beginning with “Finger Painting”, then “Printing With Veggies”, also “Fun With Paste” and for the final class in this series, “Breath Painting”. Tuition will be $10 per session with an additional minimal materials fee.

Other classes to follow will present an interesting line-up including “Traveling With Your Sketchbook” April 24 & 25, “Learning in Retirement – A Drawing Class” June 3 – July 1, “The Artist’s Way” June 7 – August 30, a Discussion Group, all instructed by Downs. Also in the line-up are “Beginner’s Origami” May 22 and “It’s All About Paper” June 12, by Linda Stewart. And finally, “Pastels: Vibrant and Direct” June 26 & 27, taught by Patricia Hilton.

To view detailed descriptions of all classes, dates, times, other class requirements visit www.artsatcanalplace.com or to enroll, contact the Allegany Arts Council at 301-777-2787.

The instructors for the current classes are all artists involved with the Arts at Canal Place, a local co-op artists’ gallery; however, teaching opportunities are available to non-members. If you are interesting in adding a unique and fun class to the line-up, contact the gallery at 301-777-8199. The gallery, located at 16 Howard St. among the Shops at Canal Place Heritage Area is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Jean Barnes Downs demonstrating her printing process

Upcoming workshop - “Pastels: Vibrant and Direct” by Patricia Hilton

2010-03-17T11:43:00.004-04:00

Experience the excitement of this accessible, portable art medium that can be used for applications ranging from a quick sketch to a refined painting. This two-day workshop will introduce students to concepts for quickly capturing light, shadow, and reflection in a composition.

Exercises and demonstrations will be conducted to help participants appreciate color relationships and qualities; and time will be given for experimenting with the materials. Participants will practice technical approaches such as value and color composition planning, preparation of surfaces, and materials selection. They will be given the opportunity to develop a painting from a photograph or other resource and get one-on-one feedback.

This workshop is designed for older teens and adults who aren’t afraid of a little messiness and new ways to experience color. Participants should come dressed in work clothes that can be laundered. An apron is recommended!

Small pastel sets and board will be provided by the instructor for $26. For those who have their own hard pastels, the materials fee will be $6. Soft pastels may be used in addition.
The workshop will be held on Saturday and Sunday, June 26th and 27th, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuition for the class is $75, and registration can be made by calling The Allegany Arts Council, 301-777-2787. Students will meet at the Arts at Canal Place Gallery in the Shops at Canal Place. The instructor will then accompany them to the classroom in the Shops at Canal Place area.

New Exhibition - "What's New?" - all member show

2010-03-03T20:35:00.008-05:00

The Arts at Canal Place Cooperative Gallery is presenting its first featured show for 2010. “What’s New” will feature the entire membership exhibiting work that is brand new and not previously exhibited. The show begins March 8 and closes on April 10. The co-op members have been busy over the winter practicing their craft, trying new techniques and polishing their skills.
Please join us for an opening reception on Saturday, March 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. Many of the members will be present to greet visitors and discuss their work.

A program of the Allegany Arts Council, Arts at Canal Place Gallery is located in the Shops at Canal Place and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For information on becoming an exhibiting member of the coop call 301-777-8199.

Snow Patterns by Pat Hilton

Brass, copper & steel necklace by Mary McCunn

All-member show in the loft - happening now

2010-01-19T10:44:00.004-05:00

Throughout January & February there is an all-member exhibition in the loft at Arts at Canal Place. Stop by to see all of the new work from our artists.

Arts at Canal Place is open 7 days a week.

A program of the Allegany Arts Council, Arts at Canal Place cooperative gallery is located at 16 Howard Street in The Shops at Canal Place. The gallery is open daily from 10AM-6PM. For more information call 301-777-8199 or visit www.artsatcanalplace.com.

Arts at Canal Place in the news

2009-12-29T09:26:00.004-05:00

From the 12/29/09 Cumberland Times News...

"Judy McCaughey arranges her watercolor paintings and monotype prints Monday afternoon at Arts at Canal Place in Cumberland. More than 30 local artists participate at the cooperative art gallery, which includes art, such as drawing, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, pottery, sculpture, textiles and turned wood. The gallery at the Shops at Canal Place on Howard Street is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit the Web site www.artsatcanalplace.com."

Article here.

Judy McCaughey arranges her watercolor paintings and monotype prints Monday afternoon at Arts at Canal Place in Cumberland.

Midnight Madness at Arts at Canal Place - December 17th

2009-12-08T16:50:00.002-05:00

- Stop by and visit the Gallery during Midnight Madness –
December 17th – 10 am to Midnight
Sign up for a $50 Gift Certificate

~ Great Hand Crafted Christmas Gifts ~
With Convenient Hours and Free Gift Wrapping!

Decoys, Jewelry, Paintings, Photography, Pottery, Printmaking, Sculpture, Iron, Driftwood Art, Textiles, Turned Wood – All made in the Tri-State Area!

Stop by and enjoy hot chocolate, cookies & roasted marshmallows on our patio and warm yourself by our cozy fire and hot artists!

Also take part in the Gallery’s Silent Auction to help with your gift giving. Come and bid on the many hand made items by local artisans. Bidding begins 12/9 and will end at midnight on 12/17.

Enjoy Holiday Decorations & Lights at the Railway Station and The Shops at Canal Place. Holiday Specials at The Shops at Canal Place

“The Hard & Soft of It” - Featuring the art of Mary McCunn & Jean Barnes Downs

2009-12-01T10:46:00.008-05:00

December 3, 2009 - January 9, 2010
Opening Reception: Saturday, December 5 from 6-8 p.m.

This is the third paired show for jeweler/sculptor McCunn and printmaker Downs whose artwork focuses this time on hard and soft colors, textures and rhythms of nature.

Along with McCunn’s usual materials, copper, brass and sterling silver, there will be a strong presence of steel in her jewelry and sculpture. The typical feel of her current work will be there, but with a new and occasional soft direction incorporating wool and other softer materials into her work. She will utilize her metal techniques, presenting work that has both a soft, natural and organic feel, while blending it with a harder edge using geometric shapes and harder lines. As in nature, these two can be found together; the soft fuzzy baby chick awaiting feeding in a hard branchy nest, the soft flowing hay around a piece of farm equipment or a steel metal bridge or especially a lamb by a steel barbed fence. Always present is this natural pairing of hard and soft.

Downs' monotypes will feature strong simple abstract compositions with blocks of color and variations of hard and soft edges suggesting tender plants growing in a rock crevasse or water cascading over solid stone. Geometric shapes will be offset with the flowing contour line of drawing as she plays with mixing mediums incorporating pastel and the printing process of chine collé. Ever present are her multiple layers of color and texture drawing the viewer into each piece to seek out a story hidden there.

You can learn more about the individual artists by visiting their websites at www.meadowbrookarts.com and www.solitudestudio.com. Both artists will be present to discuss their work and greet visitors at the Opening Reception on Saturday, Dec. 5 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Visit Arts at Canal Place on Black Friday

2009-11-23T11:23:00.002-05:00

Looking for a fun and relaxing shopping experience on Black Friday? Stop by Arts at Canal Place on November 27th for a refreshing change of pace from the frantic hustle & bustle of holiday shopping.

The gallery will be open extended hours, from 10 am until 9 pm for your shopping convenience.
Enjoy roasting marshmallows by the fire with our very own AaCP elves and enjoy some complimentary hot chocolate.

We will be holding a raffle for a $50 Arts at Canal Place Gift Certificate, open to all customers that visit on the 27th.

Halloween fun at Arts at Canal Place

2009-11-01T08:42:00.006-05:00

Nancy Biggs and Shane (AKA Big Bad Wolf) Odoms handed out candy till their arms got tired. Anita Teter dropped off extra candy and Joy Sanders came by to assist, but things were well in hand by then (note pun). After the Wolf left to seek out Red Riding Hood and Granma, whom he seemed to know very, very well, Nancy continued to hand out goodies, and Jeannie Gibbons and the Grim Reaper stayed in the vicinity should assistance be needed.

"Mother Earth" Featured Artist Show - Oct 26 through Dec 1 - Mike Williams & Billie Jean Snyder

2009-10-23T07:59:00.006-04:00

October 26, 2009 – December 1, 2009
Reception November 28th - 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Billie Jean paints to bring to life memories of forgotten times. “The Grist Mill stirs a curiosity that makes me want to know how it worked, and where the water was that made it work. The lighthouse by the seashore no longer shines a light to signal ships; you wonder about the person who lived the solitary life there. I want to remember the moon shining on the snow creating shadows with the light. For a number of years, I have been intrigued by old structures, even the ones no longer in existence. And, I want to paint them to bring them to life.

The Haystack Mountain workshops were originated in Cumberland by Alexis Levine. I took them all and learned how to do watercolors. There have been many more workshops made available since that time. I majored in Art at Frostburg State University. Before that I took a painting class at Allegany College, which started it all as I hadn’t experimented in art since the fourth grade at Flintstone School. Participation in the Watercolor Society, AAAA, and Arts at Canal Place has provided numerous artistic opportunities.”

All the materials used in Mike Williams' weathered wood accents have been collected from the forests and riverbeds of West Virginia. Some of the bases used are dead coral from the U.S Virgin Islands. Wood and stone alike have been sculpted by timeless exposure to the elements, preserved and enhanced by the joining together of different configurations, revealing the artist's concept of the ultimate in aesthetic design.

The wood is thoroughly cleaned, a preservation is applied, and then a final finish to bring out the color and grain. It is then fastened to the base with a steel pin to ensure everlasting durability. Williams resides in Keyser, WV and has a studio in Great Cacapon, WV.

Merlavage & Sullivan Reception

2009-10-23T07:54:00.003-04:00

On October 24 from 5-8PM, Arts at Canal Place hosts a reception for the exhibition of photographs by Bill Merlavage and pottery by Steve Sullivan.
A program of the Allegany Arts Council, Arts at Canal Place cooperative gallery is located at 16 Howard Street in The Shops at Canal Place. The gallery is open daily from 10AM-6PM. For more information call 301-777-8199 or visit www.artsatcanalplace.com.

"Rescue Me" donation to Animal Welfare

2009-10-06T16:03:00.002-04:00

This past summer Arts at Canal Place artists Jill Baldinger, Linda Cover Holler, Penny Knobel-Besa, and Judy McCaughey participated in an art show called “Rescue Me” to benefit local animal rescue groups. To jump start the show, there was a “Painting Day” for young and old to come in and paint canvases to sell with a portion of the sales going towards local animal rescue. A big thanks to all that came out to help paint and give their time for animals. David Shapiro’s book “Peppy Plays Mozart”, illustrated by Jill Baldinger, was also available for purchase with proceeds going to the Allegany County Animal Shelter.

Pictured above is artist Jill Baldinger, Animal Welfare Society of Allegany County’s President Peggy McDaniel, writer David Shapiro, and Arts at Canal Place Coordinator Linda Stewart.

Arts at Canal Place is a local artist cooperative gallery located in the Shops at Canal Place and is a program of the Allegany Arts Council.

"Recent Work" by Steve Sullivan & Bill Merlavage

2009-09-18T21:59:00.002-04:00

09/21/2009-10/25/2009
Photographs by Bill Merlavage and pottery by Steve Sullivan will be on display at Arts at Canal Place (AaCP) from September 21 through October 25. A reception, open to the public, will be held in the AaCP gallery loft at the Shops at Canal Place on Saturday, October 24th, from 6-8PM.

Merlavage brings the viewer a unique perspective of local scenes such as "Cumberland at Night." Sullivan's pottery reflects the influence of his years in Japan where he studied ceramic art. A fine sense of composition, form and line quality are evident in each piece.

A program of the Allegany Arts Council, Arts at Canal Place cooperative gallery is located at 16 Howard Street in The Shops at Canal Place. The gallery is open daily from 10AM-6PM, with extended hours until 8PM on Friday & Saturday nights during the summer months. For more information call 301-777-8199 or visit www.artsatcanalplace.com.

Paintings and Purses at Arts at Canal Place

2009-08-19T07:37:00.001-04:00

Paintings and Purses at Arts at Canal Place

Judy McCaughey’s paintings and Mary Spalding’s purses will be on display at Arts at Canal Place (AaCP) from August 17 through September 19. A reception, open to the public, will be held in the AaCP gallery loft at the Shops at Canal Place on Saturday, August 22, from 6-8 p.m.

McCaughey, who lives with her husband in their home overlooking Deep Creek Lake, will display both monotype and watercolor paintings. The monotypes are made on a gelatin plate using techniques learned from Jean Barnes Downs, another AaCP artist, and also incorporate methods from a watercolor printing workshop led by Kathleen Kuchar.

McCaughey’s watercolors are the result of years of classes that began when she and her husband moved to Columbia, Maryland, from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 1991. A retired kindergarten teacher, she wanted to write and illustrate storybooks for her grandchildren, leading her to enroll in her first drawing and painting class. The McCaugheys moved to Western Maryland in 2002, and Judy continues to take classes and workshops in art. After working with all of these new things individually and then blending them into what she already knew, over the years they finally became part of her arsenal of watercolor techniques. “One of my favorite things to do with watercolor is to wrap it around a flower or branch so the result is 3-D,” she says.
McCaughey is a signature artist member of the Baltimore Watercolor Society and of the Miniature Painters, Sculptors, and Gravers Society of D.C. Her paintings are also available at the Gallery in Oakland and Rocky Gap Lodge.

Handmade purses by Spalding will also be featured in the AaCP show. “I’m trying to finish my favorite purse now,” she says. “It is based on Van Gogh’s ‘Starry, Starry Night.’” The show will also include purses she designed in the spirit of artists Monet and Alexander Calder. Other types on display will include children’s, evening, and boho bags. Spalding uses ethnic fabrics from India, Japan and Bali, ethnic-inspired fabrics, and cottons, silks, and satins in whimsical to elegant prints. She enjoys playing with unusual fabric combinations and applying embellishments, such as hand embroidery, beads, and vintage jewelry. She has been selling her bags under her business name, “Woodlands Cottage.”

Spalding says she started making small handbags as a hobby several years ago, giving them as gifts to friends and relatives. “I needed an escape from brainwork,” she says. “I was teaching college English and working on my Ph.D. in English, so my usual favorite pastime—reading—did not hold a lot of appeal.” Designing and executing her bags, she found, did take more brainwork than she’d expected, especially math, but when she is sewing and embroidering she finds her thoughts taking off. “It’s a meditative activity,” she says.

A program of the Allegany Arts Council, AaCP cooperative gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours during the summer until 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. For more information, call 301-777-8199.

“Dewy Iris,” a watercolor painting by Judy McCaughey, and a hand-embroidered paisley purse by Mary Spalding will be part of AaCP’s upcoming show, “Paintings and Purses.”

Students Show Artwork at Arts at Canal Place August 10th through August 15th

2009-08-09T10:10:00.002-04:00

Students Show Artwork at Arts at Canal Place August 10th through August 15th

Reception Saturday, August 15th, 6pm to 8pm

For the past five weeks the Loft at Arts at Canal Place has been a busy place as adults and children have been participating in several art classes taught by members of the co-op. The students are sharing samples of their work with the public in a Featured Artist Show of Student Work from August 10 to August 15. Monotypes, watercolor paintings, drawings, paper folding and collage and books with original stories and illustrations fill the Featured Artist space. A closing reception will be held on Saturday, August 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. Join gallery members and students as the gallery shares the beautiful results of the students’ hard work.

Arts at Canal Place Cooperative Gallery is a program of the Allegany Arts Council and is located in the Shops at Canal Place Heritage Area. Gallery hours are 10 to 6 daily with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Please call 301-777-8199 for more information.

Participants in attached picture left to right: Bob Corrigan, Maggy Wagner, Sylvia Vaught, Ginger Squires.

Arts at Canal Place Children’s Classes Held Wednesdays

2009-07-09T11:26:00.000-04:00

Wednesdays, July 15 through August 5, 2009

Member artists at Arts at Canal Place will be offering children’s classes every Wednesday starting July 15 and ending August 5, from 2:30 to 4:00 pm. If weather permits, classes will be held on the patio outside Arts at Canal Place; if not, they will be held in the loft inside. Classes are limited to 6 students each. Fees may be paid by cash, check, or credit card.

On July 15, Light and Shadow, an Introduction to Pastels will be taught by Pat Hilton and is open to participants aged 10 through 14. Students will observe shape and color of objects and shadows and use pastels in creating one or more paintings. The fee is $15 per participant.

On July 22, Linda Stewart will offer Cut, Fold and Paste for participants aged 10 through 14. Students will learn about different kinds of paper and will create several projects using various techniques such as collage. Elements of design will be introduced and paper art will be presented. The fee is $15.
“Painting with Watercolor” will be held with Nancy Biggs on July 29. Students aged 6 through 16 will receive instruction in different watercolor painting techniques. The fee is $5.

On August 5, participants aged 6 through 10 will produce “My Story Book.” Jill Baldinger will guide their each writing and illustrating a 7-page story in a 7-inch by 7-inch sized book. The fee is $10.

The students’ work will be showcased in a Young Emerging Artists Show held August 9 through August 15 in the Loft at Arts at Canal Place. A reception for the young artists will be held on Friday, August 14 from 5 to 7 pm.
Registration forms are available at Arts at Canal Place at 16 Howard Street in the Shops at Canal Street and at the Allegany Arts Council at 33 N. Centre Street, both in Cumberland. Enrollment will be on a first come, first served basis and limited to 6 students for each class.

A program of the Allegany Arts Council, Arts at Canal Place cooperative gallery is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours during the summer until 8 pm on Friday and Saturday nights. For more information call 301-777-8199.

“Rescue Me” featured Artist show to open July 13

2009-07-08T07:42:00.000-04:00

The next featured artist exhibition at the gallery is “Rescue Me,” featuring Jill Baldinger, Judy McCaughey and Penny Knobel-Besa with work that expresses the wonderful companionship that animals have with people.
In conjunction with the exhibit, there will be a “painting day” for children and adults on Friday, July 17, at the gallery, beginning at noon until supplies run out. Materials, canvasses, and paint will be supplied by AaCP free of charge. Paintings created will be donated to AaCP to hang in the show for sale, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting local animal shelters.
The “Rescue Me” exhibit will be on display July 13 through August. The opening reception will be held July 18 from 5-8 p.m., which coincides with Downtown Cumberland Arts & Entertainment District’s second Saturday Arts Walk of the 2009 season.
For more informationabout the Arts Walk, or to receive a Saturday Arts Walk brochure by mail, call 301-777-ARTS (2787).

Featured Artist Show "Porcelain and Paper" by Jim DeGeorge and Linda Stewart - June 6th through July 11th

2009-06-04T14:41:00.004-04:00

A dual exhibit at Arts at Canal Place, titled Porcelain and Paper, will feature the unique pottery of Jim DeGeorge and Linda Stewart’s 2-D paper creations. The exhibit will run from June 6 through July 11, with a reception open to the public on June 13 from 6-8 p.m.

DeGeorge’s love of porcelain begins with the purity of its color, continues with the silky feel between his fingers as he shapes the clay, and then diminishes with its tendency to distort or crack when fired. This show debuts some of Jim’s new ideas. Wine cups and beer glasses show off their brilliant blue and green glazes while the pure white interior glaze allows the clarity of the liquid to show through. They are designed for comfort in the hand and against the lip.

Earring vases are another new item. Rings around the edges allow the earrings to be displayed on the dresser. They are beautiful standing alone or filled with fresh cut flowers. The show will also feature an assortment of never-before-seen pieces.

DeGeorge’s studio “Potterwood,” was founded in 2004. His work can be seen and purchased at Arts at Canal Place and in his studio on Scenic Lane in Ridgeley, WV, as well as at the Connoisseur shop, Rocky Gap and select out-of-state shops.

Linda Stewart has played and worked with paper for years but only recently began to create works of art for sale. Starting with cardstock, scrapbooking, and specialty papers, Linda manipulates the papers, using traditional tools and techniques to achieve the desired shapes and composition for her 2-D pieces. The framed compositions are usually three-quarters inch in depth. Some of the techniques used are stenciling, stamping, scoring, and dry and wet embossing. Works often include Origami and Kirigami, used in traditional and non-traditional ways. Important design elements are color, texture and shape.

Linda sometimes "pre-visualizes" the design and sometimes allows the design to emerge through the process of working with the paper. Themes in her work include music, flowers, leaves, and Japanese designs, along with the combination of organic and geometric shapes. A recent theme has been "Inchies Plus," featuring squares that are a little more than one inch by one inch. These pieces are a take-off of the artist trading cards and the inchies blocks that quilters trade.

Linda's work is on exhibit at the Arts at Canal Place and the Rocky Gap Resort and Hotel. Her work was recently featured on the cover of Allegany College of Maryland's "Expressions" Magazine. She was recently awarded an Excellence in Painting Award from Allegany College of Maryland and the Academic Excellence Talent in the Arts Scholarship from Frostburg State University.

Upcoming classes at Arts at Canal Place

2009-05-31T20:17:00.001-04:00

Are you stuck in a creative rut and want to dig out? Would you like to “brush up” your art skills—or simply discover your inner artist? This summer, Arts at Canal Place, an artists’ cooperative gallery, brings you three opportunities to flex your art muscles. The Artist’s Way, Drawing Class for Beginners, and Monotype Workshop will be taught by accomplished artist Jean Barnes Downs and are designed for adults with or without prior art experience. Class sizes are limited, so register early!

The Artist’s Way is a ten-week workshop using the exercises in The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. Whether you are a writer, visual artist, or musician—or simply someone who wants to explore the world through artistic eyes—you will be inspired by these exercises and the camaraderie of others who believe, like Cameron, that “creativity is our true nature.” Jean Barnes Downs says she will “facilitate” the course rather than teach it, since participants will do many of the activities at home and share what they learn with others in the class.

Participants should bring a copy of The Artist’s Way (also available for purchase the first night) and a journal/notebook to the first session on June 15. The course will be held Monday nights from 7-8 p.m. until August 17. The minimum age for the 12 participants is 16, and tuition is $60.

If you have always wished you could draw like an artist but felt you “can’t even draw a straight line,” Drawing Class for Beginners is for you. Students with no drawing experience, as well as those who would like to improve their skills, will benefit. In a supportive atmosphere, students will experience what it means to really see the world around them through a series of guided exercises and drawing techniques. Exercises will begin with simple contour and progress through seeing and drawing negative space, light, and shade, using erasers as drawing tools, portraiture and the copying of master drawings.

Drawing Class for Beginners will run from July 15 through August 12 (five sessions) on Wednesday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuition is $50 plus a $10 materials fee. Class size is 10, with a minimum age of 14.

“Monotype is perhaps the most creative expressive means for an artist to work with few written restrictive rules . . . the possibilities are endless,” says Julia Ayers about this “most painterly of fine art printing techniques.” Without the use of a printing press, participants will explore this medium using non-toxic water-miscible oil paints and a gelatin plate to create monotypes with luminous layers of color. Clean-up requires only soap and water.

The Monotype Workshop will present a brief history of the medium, demonstrations of techniques for printing monotypes, as well as instruction on the construction and use of a gelatin plate. With payment of the supply fee of $20 plus tuition of $80, materials and tools will be provided. The class will limited to 6 participants, with a minimum age of 14.

To register, complete a registration form and return it with your tuition and materials fees made payable to Arts at Canal Place on or before the enrollment deadline. Participation cannot be reserved without payment. Registration forms are available at Arts at Canal Place at 16 Howard Street (at the Shops at Canal Place next to the Scenic Railroad Station) or at the Allegany Arts Council at 9 N. Centre Street, both in Cumberland, Maryland 21502. Arts at Canal Place reserves the right to cancel a workshop due to insufficient enrollments, in which case tuition and fees will be returned in full. Call 301-777-8199 with questions or to check availability. Remember that class sizes are limited, so register today!

Reminder - Penny Knobel-Besa's "Up the Down Stair Case" exhibition will continue through June 4th

2009-05-26T19:54:00.003-04:00

Have you seen Penny Knobel-Besa's edgy new show At Arts at Canal Place yet?"

...exhibition will continue through June 4th.

Canal Place Spring Carnival - May 20th to 24th

2009-05-18T16:29:00.004-04:00

Celebrate this warm weather family favorite starting May 20 as Canal Place welcomes Gambill Amusements back to Cumberland for five fun-filled days of rides, games and food. The Ferris wheel will provide the perfect bird's eye view of all the fun below. Gather up the kids, bring your sweetie, or just bring yourself and relive your youth at the Carnival at Canal Place.

While you're there, please be sure to stop by Arts at Canal Place.

Featured artist exhibit - Penny Knobel-Besa - “Up The Down Staircase”

2009-05-01T12:24:00.005-04:00

Penny Knobel-Besa is Arts at Canal Place’s current featured artist. Her exhibition, titled “Up The Down Staircase”, features 25 all-new complex images never before shown at the gallery.
The opening reception will be May 9 from 5-8 p.m. to coincide with Cumberland's Saturday Arts Walk.
Some of Penny’s images have been converted from photographs to charcoal-like paintings and printed on heavy watercolor paper, others on matte and high gloss papers.
Many are complex photos with a theme of internal reflection. These new works are a departure from her more recent work that resulted from her travels. She is especially excited about “Split-Personality” and “Blood Brothers.” The exhibition continues until June 4.

Arts at Canal Place - Member News - May'09

2009-05-01T12:19:00.002-04:00

Linda Stewart’s work will be on the cover of Allegany College’s Expressions Magazine. The annual magazine, that focuses on students’ art and literary works, comes out in May. Linda also received the Academic Excellence Talent in the Arts Scholarship from Frostburg State University.

Joy Sanders has an exhibit called “Brush, Pencil, Shutter” at the J. Glenn Memorial Art Gallery, at St. Johns Episcopal Church in Frostburg. The opening reception is Saturday, May 9, from 5-7 p.m. Viewing hours are 9 a.m.-noon May 11-l5 and May 18-22, or by appointment. Call 301-689-6634.

Two photographs and a nature-print monoprint by Susan Brimo- Cox were juried in to the Uniontown Art Club’s 2009 Regional Juried Fine Art and Craft Exhibition. The show will be on display at Touchstone Center for Crafts in Farmington, Pa., May 10-30.

Sanctuary Studio will hold its Spring Studio Open House, featuring Hilmar Gottesthal’s “squid ink” drawings, May 16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. AaCP member Penny Knobel-Besa will be having a loft sale, offering photography tips, and serving refreshments. For more information, call 301-478-2735.

Please join us in welcoming THREE new members

2009-04-20T12:06:00.002-04:00

Arts at Canal Place now has three new artists...please stop by to check out their work:

1. Kathy Matolyak
Kathy needle felts by hand llama, silky, soft, primitive styled fleece ornaments. These may be used as refrigerator magnets, or pins as well as tree ornaments. The ornaments could be used on an ornament tree and be used for different seasons. The ornaments range in price from $15 to $20 .An affection for her neighbor's llamas was her inspiration to create these llama lovely, fleece ornaments.

2. Loretta Radeschi
Loretta creates soft sculptures, which includes a varietyof fruits and vegetables, made of wool and llama fleece. The fleece from her llamas has been the impetus for her work. She also makes small framed pictures using the fleece from the llamas. In addition to the fleece, she also incorporates crewel, embroidery, and sewing threads into the the picture, when necessary. Along with the soft sculptures and the paintings, Loretta makes beautiful hand made baskets.These originallly designed baskets are in geometric patterns and landscape designs, using native materials. To weave her baskets, Loretta often uses Iris and cat tail leaves, turkey feathers, corn husks, wool, llama fleece and willow branches, etc.. Each basket is one of a kind, inspired by the Native Americans as well as the Pennsylvania ridges and valleys, flora and fawna, and Loretta's llamas.

3. George Radeschi
George makes beautuful cutting boards using different woods. He cuts and measures the pieces very carefully. His inspiration comes from the Native Americans, Egyptian and Grecian work.The cutting boards are finished with olive oil and are designed to be used . However, I would think twice before really using it for chopping an onion. They make great pieces of wall art.

Spring cleaning day at AaCP - Please come check out our CLEAN gallery....

2009-04-06T14:16:00.014-04:00

March 31st was the annual gallery spring cleaning day, and about a third of the gallery members showed up and got down to some spring cleaning. The event was organized by Linda Stewart and she got results.
Mike Williams and Larry Bloss cleaned all the glass cubbies & Pat Hilton cleaned every single window on the outside of the building while Julia Shillingburg cleaned the inside windows. Jean Barnes Downs and her husband Ray cleaned the back room along with Nancy Biggs. Mary McCunn scrubbed the bathroom from top to bottom. Joy Sanders set up her show and then scrubbed the floor when she was finished. All the wood rafters were vacuumed with an extended hose on a long pole, then wiped down with soapy water. The gallery is looking really good right now…we invite you to stop by & check it out.

Mike Williams & Larry Bloss making the glass cubbies shine

Mary McCunn happily tackling the least volunteered-for job

Pat Hilton starting to realize just how many windows we have at the gallery

Joy Sanders “The Way I See It” opens April 1

2009-03-31T11:06:00.001-04:00

The many varied subjects of her watercolor and colored pencil images conjure Joy Sanders’ exhibition title of “The Way I See It.”
Opening April 1, Sanders’ work will be on display in the loft gallery at Arts at Canal Place through April 30. An opening reception will be held Saturday, April 11, from 6-8 p.m. The reception is open to the public.
Tropical images from a weeklong plein air workshop Sanders attended in February 2007 will be featured. The workshop, held in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, was conducted by former local artist Alexis Lavine. Sanders’ children and other family members are frequently subjects for her portrait work.
Sanders spends much time reading and studying color mixing and blending in the media of watercolor and colored pencil. “I feel fortunate to have such a rewarding and enjoyable personal mission to pursue,” she says. “It is my passion. I hope to convey its meaning and importance in some fashion to others.”

Member News - April '09

2009-03-31T11:00:00.002-04:00

Judy McCaughey will be the featured artist at The Gallery in Oakland from April 6 through May 16. The show is titled “What if?”
Judy says she arrived at the show’s title as she was working on pieces for the show. She found she kept asking herself, ‘What if?”. Consequently, she tried lots of new ideas. The show consists of watercolor paintings, including ones in which she uses the pouring of paint method and monotypes. The reception for the show will be held Thursday, April 16 from 5-7 p.m.

Penny Knobel-Besa invites everyone to the opening reception at Sanctuary Studios for 16 photographers who have been exploring new directions with Penny’s “Art of Photography” classes. The reception will be April 18 from 6-8 p.m., and the show of approximately 100 works will continue until April 26. For more information, call (301) 478-2735.

Member News - February '09

2009-02-19T11:43:00.003-05:00

AaCP welcomes its three newest members:
Greg Browne of Frostburg is a potter who prefers to create functional pieces. His work is typically wood fired, stoneware clay.
Patricia Hilton of Cumberland paints and draws, primarily with pastels, oils and acrylics.
Michael Williams of Keyser, W.Va., creates abstract, mixed media sculptures.

“CANDY” exhibition:
From Feb. 23 through March 31, Beth Piver is AaCP’s featured artist, presenting a special reprise of her mixed media exhibition “CANDY.”

16th Annual Tri-State Photography Exhibition:
Bill Merlavage and Wini Minerd juried into the 16th Annual Tri-State Photography Exhibition being held through March 7 at the Saville Gallery.

Upcoming workshops:
Penny Knobel-Besa is offering two six-week workshops, each begining March 7: “The Art of Photography” and, for experienced photographers, “Community Art of Photography.” Both workshops will result in an exhibition of photography at Sanctuary Studios. For more information or to register, call (301) 478-2735 or e-mail pkbphotos@hereintown.net.

Beth Piver "CANDY" Exhibition at Arts at Canal Place

2009-02-15T14:45:00.005-05:00

From February 23 through March 31, Arts at Canal Place featured artist, Beth Piver, will present a special reprise of her mixed media exhibition “CANDY”.
“This is a body of work that I had developed over a period of several years,” says Beth. “The work has evolved as a subconscious artistic response to a variety of health issues (mostly migraine headaches) that I have been plagued with for a very long time. A few years ago, I had to cut out all sugar and candy from my diet, which was an extremely difficult task for me, as I have a terrible sweet tooth. This left a huge void in my life. Without realizing what was going on, I started making work that was very rich in color, and lush in texture. I realized that I was trying to replenish the energy that my health problems had drained from me. In essence my art became my new addiction, my new CANDY. The pieces in this collection are part of my search for health, energy and happiness.”

Since there will be no opening reception for this exhibition, the public is invited to enjoy “Candy” any time during normal gallery hours from 10AM-6PM daily.

For more information about Beth, please visit – Beth Piver Designs

FAMOUS FAVORITES - Opening Reception, Saturday, January 17th, 6-8 pm

2009-01-13T19:25:00.008-05:00

The member artists at Arts at Canal Place are presenting a unique show during the months of January and February (January 12, 2009 to February 21, 2009). Working within the constraints of their own mediums, the members are presenting “Famous Favorites,” works of art inspired by and done in the spirit of the artists’ favorite masters.

Member Linda Stewart came up with the idea for the exhibition. She explains, “The idea came to me because I’m often inspired by the works of famous artists and I enjoy creating a piece of art that uses their color choices, techniques, style or subject matter. I thought it would be fun to see who everyone’s favorite artists are and what they would create in the style of that artist.”

Many famous artists are providing inspiration. Creative photographer Wini Minerd used the style and colors of Maxfield Parrish – “Master of Make Believe” - to create Dawn’s Glory. Ceramic artist Jim DeGeorge will be using Monet’s colors to create pieces of pottery. Susan Brimo-Cox is creating jewelry inspired by Alexander Calder. And paper collages by Stewart, inspired by Picasso and Braque, will be among the many creations on display.

Linda Herdering created digitally-manipulated photos reminiscent of Renoir’s style. “I’ve always loved Impressionism and especially Renoir and his ‘The Luncheon of the Boating Party’ oil painting. I feel dreamy and earthy when enjoying those exact same qualities in impressionist art. Renoir often captured a scene of everyday life—a split second in time is depicted—allowing us to study many postures and facial expressions, just like everyday life. I attempted to re-create this feeling in the work I am presenting in the exhibit,” she says.

Painter Judy McCaughy is including work inspired by Andy Warhol and Georgia O’Keefe. She says about her Tomato Soup Can painting, “In 1962 Warhol exhibited 32 Campbell Soup Cans in the Ferus Gallery in Los Angeles. Warhol’s central insight was that in a culture glutted with information overload, there is a role of effectless art. This effectlessness, this fascinated and yet indifferent take on the object, became the key to his work. I liked the straight forwardness of looking at a simple object.”

The opening reception Jan. 17 provides an opportunity not only to see what the Arts at Canal Place artists have created and try to guess the “Famous Favorites” that inspired them, but also to talk with the artists about how these famous artists influenced their creativity and the work they are presenting.

The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pictured - Artist Mary McCunn's tribute to sculptor Louise Nevelson

January & February - "Famous Favorites" fill the Loft at Arts at Canal Place

2008-12-20T16:34:00.005-05:00

The member artists at the Arts at Canal Place Co-op are presenting a unique show during the months of January and February. Working within the constraints of their own mediums, the members are presenting “Famous Favorites”, works of art inspired by and done in the spirit of the artists’ favorite masters. The show runs from January 12 through February 21 with the opening reception on Saturday, January 17 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Would you recognize Picasso in a cubist pot or Van Gogh’s brushwork in a pastel? Come and see how many “Famous Favorites” you can identify. Speak with the artists about how their favorite inspires them and the work they are presenting.

Arts at Canal Place is a program of the Allegany Arts Council and is located in the Shops at Canal Place. Business hours are 10 to 6 daily.

Midnight Madness at Arts at Canal Place – December 18th – open until Midnight

2008-12-16T23:32:00.003-05:00

Stop by and visit the Gallery during Midnight Madness – December 18th – 10 am to Midnight.

Sign up for a $50 Gift Certificate.

After the hustle and bustle of the big stores, come and visit the Gallery for some relaxing shopping.
The Gallery will have available to all visitors:
Chair Massages upstairs by Harmony Within: Massage & Wellness Spa from 6pm to 12 midnight, $1 per minute.
Hot chocolate & Roasted Marshmallows on our patio.
Meet some of our talented local artists.
Enjoy Holiday Decorations & Lights at the Railway Station and the Shops at Canal Place.

Tis the Seasons - Featured Artist Show - Dec 1st through Jan 3rd

2008-12-03T14:53:00.002-05:00

Arts at Canal Place’s current featured artist exhibition showcases the work of watercolorist Linda Cover Holler and fused glass artist Mary Kammauff.

Linda and Mary struggled to make a decision as what their show theme would be. After hashing over countless ideas, of course, they would always come back to the Holiday Season, since their show at Arts at Canal Place is on display December 1 through January 3. However, they did not want the characteristic show geared to just this time of year. After much thought, they came up with the inspiration that it might be fun to include all of the seasons, thus calling the show “Tis The Seasons.”

Mary’s work includes fused dichroic glass jewelry (pendants, earrings, bracelets, holiday pins), stained glass kaleidoscopes, and fused glass plates, candleholders, soap dishes, wind chimes, and wall flower pockets. Linda will be presenting numerous, landscape watercolor paintings dealing with winter, spring, summer and fall. She will be painting more than a few local scenes depicting familiar views from our county and those in close proximity to us.

Linda says, “I love color and doing these paintings let me express myself with lots of bright beautiful colors as well as showing the subtleties in others. I had to dig out thousands of photos and sort them into the four seasons of the year. Then I chose my favorites and also went outdoors with my camera to take more photos of our gorgeous fall weather. The paintings that do not obviously affirm the season with clear examples like fall foliage, snow, spring flowers, etc., show us another venue by which to determine the season. For example, a painting might show the inside of a feed store with the apparent objects to depict spring, like onion sets, packets of seeds, and/or garden tools. It was really fun to go with these different themes. Generally, I had four paintings going at once, one for each season. Because watercolor sometimes has to completely dry before going to the next step, I just went from one season to another without a delay in painting. I absolutely enjoyed not having to put on a winter coat when I was painting snow and then going right to the beach the same day. I hope the folks viewing my show enjoy seeing it as much as I enjoyed painting the different views. If truth be told, it was totally fun!”

The opening for this show will be Saturday, December 6 from 5-7PM. Please come by Arts at Canal Place and celebrate the Seasons with Mary and Linda. You might wear your sunglasses so that the reflections of the brilliant colors in the paintings and the jewels do not shock your senses…or your eyes.

Arts at Canal Place is a cooperative gallery that features the work of more than 30 area artists. A program of the Allegany Arts Council, Arts at Canal Place is located at 16 Howard Street in The Shops at Canal Place. Free parking is available in the lot off Howard Street. The gallery is open daily from 10AM to 6PM, and during summer months until 8PM on Fridays and Saturdays. To learn more about Arts at Canal Place—or for information about becoming a member artist—visit www.artsatcanalplace.com or call 301-777-8199.

December Member News

2008-11-25T22:15:00.006-05:00

Seven of our members juried into the Allegany Arts Council’s 7th Annual Members’ Exhibition. They include: Nancy Biggs, “Dawn II”; Jean Barnes Downs, “Desert Water Patterns XIII” and “Desert Water Patterns IX”; Jeannette Z. Hunt, “Canal Trail”; Pat Kelly, “Carolina Wren”; Bill Merlavage, “Cumberland at Night”; Wini Minerd, “Flower Power”; and Linda Stewart, “Inchies Plus” and “Calla Lilies.” Congratulations to all. The exhibition will be on display until Jan. 3, 2009.

Nancy Biggs has eight paintings on display at the Washington Street Public Library through December.

Linda Stewart and Nancy Biggs eash have two pieces in the Gilchrist Gallery on Washington Street for the “Art for Giving” show through Dec. 31.

Penny Knobel-Besa is holding three holiday events at Sanctuary Studios in December: an Austrian Christmas Tea on Friday, Dec. 12, beginning at 11:30 a.m.; her Christkindlmarkt Open House on Saturday and Sunday, Dec.13-14, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m; and the Christkindlmarkt Fund Raiser For Citizens for Smart Growth Saturday evening, Dec. 13, from 6-8 p.m. For more information or directions, email pkbphotos@hereintown.net or call (301) 478-2735.

Holiday get-together - December 9th - at Arts at Canal Place Gallery

2008-11-25T22:08:00.005-05:00

Arts at Canal Place is having a special holiday get-together Dec. 9, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The event is open to members and their guests! It’s a pot luck, so there will be plenty to eat and or drink. The event will also include a silent auction featuring artwork of the current Arts at Canal Place members!

Visit Arts at Canal Place on Black Friday, November 28th

2008-11-18T11:12:00.013-05:00

Looking for a fun and relaxing shopping experience on Black Friday? Stop by Arts at Canal Place on November 28th for a refreshing change of pace from the frantic hustle & bustle of holiday shopping.

The gallery will be open extended hours, from 10 am until 10 pm for your shopping convenience.
Enjoy roasting marshmallows by the fire with our very own AaCP elves and enjoy some complimentary hot chocolate.

Harmony Within Massage and Wellness Spa will be on-site offering chair massages all day for only $1 per minute.

We will be holding a raffle for a $50 Arts at Canal Place Gift Certificate, open to all customers that visit on the 28th.

To better accommodate shoppers looking for specific items, we have added two new sections in the gallery; "Cumberland and Surrounding Area" section offers a selection artwork depicting local scenes, "Holiday" section offers holiday-themed artwork by our artists.

Our new "Cumberland and Surrounding Area" section

Here are some photos from the event.

Precious Gifts - Featured Artist show of Jeannette Hunt

2008-11-11T23:31:00.008-05:00

Arts at Canal Place’s next featured artist exhibition entitled “Precious Gifts” will showcase the work of photographer Jeannette Z. Hunt. The show opens October 27 and runs through November 29.

“The lessons of time and shortness of life have been reiterated to me this past year. The need to stop taking tomorrow for granted torments me, as days are wasted taking care of the mundane daily tasks. Photographs exhibited during the show ‘Precious Gifts’ are images I have selected to remind me to enjoy where I am today, to see the beauty in everyday, to appreciate every moment” says Jeannette. Images will depict the Cumberland area, the canal, animals and Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania (one of Jeannette’s favorite places to work and play).

In previous years Jeannette has been a participant in the Mountain Maryland Artist Studio Tour. This year Jeannette would like to invite art lovers to join her at the reception for wine and snacks after visiting the various artisans on the Studio Tours. The reception will be held November 8 from 5-8PM. As a special thank you she will be offering a free memento to the first 30 customers purchasing one of her ‘Precious Gifts’ during the reception on November 8. The reception is free and everyone is welcome.

Member News - November

2008-11-11T23:27:00.001-05:00

With sadness we convey the news that Shirley Carnahan passed away on Oct. 21. She created exquiste dolls that were truly beautiful works of art and a wonderful addition to our gallery.
She was very supportive of the gallery and making it successful, and was always helpful to other artists. She is greatly missed.

Frostburg State University’s “Local Landscape” show at the Saville Gallery in October included work by Nancy Biggs, Pat Kelly, Penny Knobel-Besa and Connie Stark. Pat received an Honorable Mention for “Marsh #5.”

Mary McCunn was the Jewelry Award winner at FSU’s juried Community Art Exhibition for her “Sticks” necklace. Mary also has a sculpture in the show. The show continues through Nov. 8 at the Stephanie Roper Gallery at FSU from Sun.-Wed., 1-4 p.m. Billie Jean Snyder has a painting in the same exhibit.

Two miniature paintings by Judy McCaughey were accepted by The Miniature Painters, Sculptors & Gravers Society into the society’s 75th Annual International Exhibition at the Strathmore Mansion in North Bethesda, Md., Nov. 17-Jan. 3.

Nancy Biggs, Judy McCaughey, Helena Sauer, Billie Jean Snyder and Dottie Winner are in the Watercolor Society show at the Hazen Gallery through Nov. 25.