/sites/default/files/2021-03/CoverImage.jpg

The Delaplaine Arts Center

The Delaplaine Arts Center provides the Frederick region with educational opportunities and experiences in the visual arts through classes, exhibits, and programs.

About this Organization

Established in 1986, The Delaplaine Arts Center has grown from a grassroots nonprofit organization to a cultural anchor visited by more than 80,000 people and offering more than 50 exhibitions in seven galleries, 250 classes and workshops, and dozens of public programs each year. Virtual Delaplaine expands the arts center's reach and impact by providing free online exhibitions, artist-led workshops and talks, art activities, and more. Reflecting the vision that "everyone deserves art," the Delaplaine's Community Outreach initiative partners the organization with local nonprofits and service organizations to provide customized arts programs to the underserved and at-risk in the community. The Gift Gallery showcases works by regional artists on consignment, and Gardiner Hall and the Event Deck provide spaces for programs, community gatherings, and private events. The Delaplaine is located in historic downtown Frederick, Maryland, along the beautiful Carroll Creek Park Promenade. It is open daily and admission is free. 

Services/Opportunities

The Delaplaine offers more than 250 classes and workshops each year for all ages in a variety of media, including: ceramics, drawing, jewelry/metalsmithing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and woodworking, among others. Opportunities are offered over four semesters, starting in January, March, June, and September. Art camps for kids and teens are offered throughout the summer (the Delaplaine is Maryland Department of Health certified). Classes are taught by experienced educators and artists.

The Gift Gallery features a changing and eclectic selection of artworks by local artists and artisans, as well as "Artist at Work" gear, art kits, and a limited selection of art supplies. The shop showcases a Featured Artist each month. In addition to the onsite space, you can also shop the Gift Gallery online at delaplaine.org/shop. All artworks are on consignment, so purchases support local artists and educational programs at the Delaplaine.

The Delaplaine's Gardiner Hall is available to host community gatherings, wedding receptions, bridal and baby showers, parties, memorial services, corporate retreats, public programs, and more. Although roomy enough to accommodate larger gatherings, the atmosphere makes smaller gatherings feel intimate. Gardiner Hall opens up onto the 1,000-square-foot Event Deck overlooking beautiful Carroll Creek Park, adding an additional outdoor option for guests' enjoyment. Amenities include new audio-visual systems and convenient parking available in the deck next door, among others. The Delaplaine is one of the most popular and reasonably-priced venues in historic downtown Frederick, with a reputation built on attention to detail and excellent service.

The Delaplaine features onsite exhibitions by local, regional, and national solo artists and groups in five main galleries. Exhibitions change every four to six weeks. Annual or biennial shows include the National Juried Exhibition, National Juried Photography Exhibition, Over 70 Show, Veterans Show, and Frederick County Public Schools Youth Art Month Student Show. Exhibitions are also available virtually at delaplaine.org. Two onsite community art galleries feature artworks created through local schools, community groups, and nonprofit partners, and artworks created during the Delaplaine's Community Outreach programs. In addition, the Delaplaine maintains satellite galleries at the Brunswick Branch Library, Thurmont Regional Library, and Urbana Regional Library. Admission to all the galleries is free.

The Delaplaine offers a dynamic repertoire of educational public programs throughout the year. These include monthly Art Matters Artist Talks featuring talks by exhibiting artists, as well as regular Art at Noon and Art at Night programs, presenting art-related topics presented by artists, scholars, art historians, and experts. Other regular experiences include Creative Outlet, providing hands-on art activities for children and families; Artobus, offering physical and virtual bus trips to art museums; and monthly exhibitions openings; among other programs. Programs are held onsite, online, or both. Many of the Delaplaine's public program are free and open to all.