Chestertown In The Eye of the Artist

February 2010

The New York Times has called it charming, proud, remarkably unscarred. The Baltimore Sun touts that it’s cozy. The Washington Post uses the words comely and tony, and talks of a balance between traditional and trendy.

For centuries Chestertown has called to artists who find willing subjects in the handsome buildings, the beckoning river, the sidewalk scenes, and the surrounding natural beauty. In March Artworks showcases an eclectic variety of images in its downtown gallery, images that capture the spirit, energy, and heritage of this community. Selected artwork will be reproduced on banners to be hung on lightposts downtown.

Partnering with Artworks in promoting this exhibition is Main Street Historic Chestertown, part of the nationwide Main Street program established by the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP) to enhance and preserve historically significant downtowns all across America. The Main Street program expands the concept of historic preservation beyond maintaining individual landmarks to perpetuating entire communities that played central roles in our nation’s history. Chestertown was designated as one of these treasured communities.

The NTHP has recommended enhancing the visual appeal of historic downtown business districts in order to stimulate commercial activity. Installing colorful banners that move in the breeze to add visual interest along High Street was one of these recommendations. Using artwork and photography by local artisans to promote attractions and entertaining events also displays the extraordinary creative talents of our thriving artist community.

A reception to open this special show will be held on First Friday, March 5, from 5-8 pm.
Artworks also maintains a non-profit gift shop featuring unique, hand-made gifts, with proceeds going to support local classes and programs for children and adults and to foster arts on the Upper Eastern Shore.

Artworks gallery, gift shop, and office are located at 306 Park Row, across from Fountain Park, in Chestertown. Regular hours are Wednesday through Friday 12-3 and Saturday 9-3. Phone 410-778-6300 for more information on membership, classes, and volunteer opportunities or go to www.artworkschestertown.org.