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Art League of Ocean City
Monthly Newsletter — August 2026
| A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | |
August is always one of the most inspiring months at the Art League of Ocean City. Our galleries are bustling with visitors, our classrooms are alive with creativity, and we celebrate art created in the moment with our Artists Paint OC Plein Air Festival and Competition. Every day we see firsthand the incredible impact the arts have on bringing people together.
This summer has been extraordinary. Thousands of residents and visitors have explored our exhibitions, participated in classes and workshops, and discovered the welcoming community that makes the Art League so unique. Our children’s summer camps have been filled with imagination and laughter, while artists of all ages have continued to learn, grow, and share their talents. Thank you to everyone—members, volunteers, instructors, donors, sponsors, and visitors—who helped make this such a successful season.
While we’re still enjoying everything summer has to offer, we’re already looking ahead to an exciting fall. Our calendar is filled with new exhibitions, creative classes, film nights, workshops, and special events, including our annual Art League Party of the Year on October 6. This year we will be celebrating an elegant evening at the Hobbit Restaurant. We hope you’ll join us, and continue to make the Art League a part of your life as the seasons change.
This month, I’m especially excited to share news about the future of our organization.
The Art League is launching "Beyond the Walls Capital Campaign" to build a 1,440-square-foot addition to our Arts Center. This expansion will allow us to welcome more students, expand youth and summer camp programs, provide additional classroom and exhibit space, improve accessibility, and create even more opportunities for our community to experience the arts.
For more than 60 years, the Art League has grown because our community believes that creativity enriches lives. Today, demand for our programs continues to increase, and this expansion will ensure we can serve future generations with the same commitment to excellence, education, and accessibility that has defined our mission from the beginning.
Over the coming months, we’ll be sharing our vision for this exciting project and inviting you to become part of it. Whether through a donation, membership, volunteering, or simply sharing our story, every act of support helps strengthen the creative heart of Ocean City.
Thank you for believing in the power of the arts and for being an important part of the Art League family. I hope you’ll enjoy the rest of your summer with us and join us as we begin building an exciting future together.
Warmly,
Rina Thaler
Executive Director
Art League of Ocean City
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Featured Exhibitions
Showing through July 3–31 (except Sisson Galleria, see below)
Thaler Gallery: Kevin Fitzgerald & Evan Fitzgerald
Sisson Galleria: Beverly Bassford Juried Art Show (through Aug. 15)
Studio E: Water Water Everywhere: Pauline Rakis & Galena Kolosovskaya
Schwab Spotlight Gallery: Greg Rosner
Felber Artisan Showcase: Gregory Cwalina
Offsite Galleries
Princess Royale: Mason D'Aleo
Coffee Beanery: Kathy Denk
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SHOP THE WET PAINT ART SALES at ARTISTS PAINT OC FESTIVAL
August 15 & 16
Be among the first to purchase freshly painted original artwork created during the Artists Paint OC Plein Air Festival. Discover one-of-a-kind paintings of Ocean City beaches, the Boardwalk, bays, marshes, and Eastern Shore landscapes—and take home a beautiful piece of your favorite place!
Wet Paint Art Sales
- Saturday, August 15, 5–7 p.m.
- Sunday, August 16, 1–3 p.m.
ARTISTS PAINT OC FESTIVAL Raffle
Win a One-of-a-Kind Painting by Kevin Fitzgerald!
Take a chance to win an original painting generously donated by renowned artist and 2026 Artists Paint OC juror Kevin Fitzgerald.
Raffle Tickets
The lucky winner will take home this exceptional original artwork while supporting the Art League of Ocean City.
ARTISTS PAINT OC FESTIVAL: Plein Air
August 12–16
Experience Ocean City through the eyes of more than 50 professional plein air artists as they paint outdoors throughout the region. Watch them create on location at beaches, waterways, downtown streets, and scenic Eastern Shore landscapes.
The festival also features the exciting Quick Paint Competition on Sunday, August 16 (9–11 a.m.), when artists race the clock to complete a painting in downtown Ocean City. Awards totaling more than $10,000 will be presented by juror Kevin Fitzgerald, with Quick Paint awards judged by Evan Fitzgerald
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
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Upcoming Events
FIRST FRIDAY OPENING RECEPTION
Fri. August 7, 5pm–7pm
Free
Meet the artists, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, and see the new exhibits by a variety of local and regional artists. FREE. All are welcome.
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KIDS CRAFTS SATURDAY
11am–1pm
FREE
Registration encouraged but not required.
Looking for a fun and creative way to spend your Saturday? Join us every week this summer for Free Kids Craft Saturdays, a drop-in outdoor activity where families can create, explore, and make memories together.
Each week features a new hands-on craft designed to spark imagination and creativity. All ages are welcome, and no experience is needed. Just stop by anytime between 11am and 1pm and join the fun!
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
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OCEAN CITY FILM CHALLENGE
Sat. August 8th
Gates Open at 7pm
Films Begin at 8pm
FREE
Create. Compete. Celebrate Ocean City on Film.
The Ocean City Film Challenge is the annual contest by the Ocean City Film Festival, inviting filmmakers to create a short film in or about Ocean City for a chance to win prizes, bragging rights, and the opportunity for their work to be featured in the Ocean City Film Festival catalog.
Filmmakers registering for the 2026 Ocean City Film Challenge must complete the registration form for eligibility. Serious inquiries only, as registration is limited. Applications are subject to review.
The screening will be followed by a live Q&A with filmmakers and the announcement of award winners.
Registration encouraged but not required.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
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J-1 SINGING COMPETITION
Wed. August 19th
Doors Open at 4:30pm
Event Begins at 5pm
FREE
Here is how it works...
- 20 Participants will be selected for the contest.
- Round 1, each participant will have 2 minutes to sing a song.
- Judges will select 10 participants to move to round 2.
- The 10 participants will have 3 minutes to sing a song for round 2.
- Judges will choose 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
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LIBERTY CALLS
Fri. August 28th, 7pm–9pm
Tickets: $25 per person
The Lower Shore Performing Arts Company
Witness the Patriots’ unwavering determination to forge a nation free from oppression and tyranny.
Step into the bustling atmosphere of Wilkins’ Tavern, where Patriots led by iconic figures such as Sam Adams and John Adams gather to plot their protest against unjust taxes. Amidst spirited songs and lively exchanges, tensions mount with the arrival of a formidable English Major, setting off a chain of events that test loyalty, love, and resolve.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
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CREATIVE CONNECTIONS
Fri. September 11th, 11am–1pm
FREE
Registration encouraged but not required.
Monthly Art Club designed for individuals aged 60+ who believe that creativity has no retirement date.
NEXT SESSION
Artist David Hollander explores Edgar Degas' "La Petite Danseuse": A Reconsideration
When Edgar Degas unveiled Little Dancer of Fourteen Years in 1881, audiences were shocked by its realism. Today it is regarded as a masterpiece of modern sculpture. Artist David Hollander reexamines this iconic work through the life of its young model, Marie van Goethem, the social world of nineteenth-century Paris, and his own interpretive drawings, offering fresh perspectives on art, history, and the human story behind the sculpture.
Participants are encourage to engage in a lively discussion and Q&A session.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Upcoming Sessions:
Oct 9, Nov 13, Dec 11
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HONDO'S MINI GOLF
Thur. September 17th, 6pm
$40 per player | $150 team of four
Grab your friends and tee up for a great cause!
Join us for Hondo's Gladiator Mini Golf Tournament on Thursday, September 17 at 6pm at Indoor Old Pro Golf (136th Street). Enjoy an evening of friendly competition, complimentary snacks and drinks, and prizes for Best Dressed and Top Team Scores - all while supporting the Art League of Ocean City!
Looking for another way to support the event?
Sponsor a Hole: $100
Dedicate a Hole to your favorite artist or Art League program: $100
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
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Get ready for the pARTy of the Year!
"An Evening in the Shire"
Tues. October 6, 2026
Step into an unforgettable evening of fun, fantasy, fine food, and fundraising in support of the Art League of Ocean City!
More exciting details coming soon—stay tuned!
Trip of a Lifetime Raffle – Tickets On Sale NOW!
Don't miss your chance to win BIG while supporting the arts!
Grand Prize: $5,000 CASH or the trip of your dreams!
Only 350 tickets will be sold — giving you incredible odds!
1 ticket for $100
6 tickets for $500 (Best Value!)
Winner will be announced at the pARTy of the Year on October 6.
You do not need to be present to win!
Get your tickets today before they're gone!
CLICK HERE FOR A CHANCE TO WIN
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Etched Glass
Lisa Guerriero
Aug. 3, 5:30pm–7:30pm
$20 Members, $25 Non-Members
Register Here
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Watercolor - Sunflowers
Gerilyn Gaskill
Aug. 7, 10am–1pm
$35 Members, $42 Non-Members
Register Here
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Adult Pottery
Robert Johnson
Aug. 17, 5pm–7pm
$65 Members, $78 Non-Members
Register Here
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Painting Sea Shells
Jacki Yamin
Aug. 8, 1pm–3pm
$30 Members, $36 Non-Members
Register Here
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Kids Pottery - Hand building Class
Sarah Halcott
Aug. 5, 3:30pm–4:30pm
$30 Members, $25 Non-Members
Register Here
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Family Friendship Bracelets
Lisa Guerriero
Aug. 10, 6pm–7pm
$15 Members, $18 Non-Members
Register Here
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Argentine Tango
John Huegel
Sep.14, 21, 28, Oct. 5, 2pm–3pm
$65 Members, $55 Non-Members
Register Here
| | | Recent Highlights and News | Global Photo Contest Winners were awarded a total of $1,000!!!! | |
The Art League of Ocean City is pleased to announce the winners of its 2026 Global Travel Photo Contest, celebrating the beauty, culture, and adventure found around the world. Paul Burleson earned the People's Choice Award for his photograph, Galapagos Boobie, while Peter T. West received the Best in Show (Judge's Choice) Award for his image, Jesus Plays Pan Pipes.
Sponsored by the White Marlin Open, the Global Travel Photo Contest invited photographers to share compelling images capturing unforgettable travel experiences, breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and meaningful moments from their journeys. The contest served as a fundraiser supporting the Art League’s mission of making the arts accessible to everyone through exhibitions, education, scholarships, and community programs.
The fundraiser surpassed its $5000 goal and brought in $5,276 with proceeds supporting the community efforts of the Art League of Ocean City.
See all entries HERE
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Have you visited our Free Little Art Gallery yet?
Just look at all the creativity that has found a home inside this tiny gallery—from hand-painted shells and miniature pottery to colorful crafts and one-of-a-kind treasures. Every item has been shared by someone in our community for others to enjoy.
Located on the Art League of Ocean City patio, the Free Little Art Gallery is open to everyone:
- Take a small piece of art.
- Leave a small handmade creation.
Stop by, explore, and help keep the gallery stocked with creativity and kindness. All ages welcome and all items are completely FREE!
| | | Big News: Town Approves $300k Match to Expand the Arts Center! | |
The Art League of Ocean City is embarking on an exciting new chapter with plans to expand the Center for the Arts through a 1,400-square-foot addition. Supported by the Ocean City Mayor and Council, this project will allow us to serve more artists, students, families, and visitors while meeting the growing demand for arts programming.
The need is clear: this summer alone, more than 300 children attended our art camps, while another 300 had to be turned away because our classrooms were full. By expanding our facility, we hope to welcome many more young artists as early as next summer and ensure that no child misses the opportunity to discover their creativity due to lack of space.
The City's investment is an important first step, but community support will bring this vision to life. Through the "Beyond the Walls Capital Campaign," we invite donors, businesses, and friends of the arts to help create a vibrant, accessible space that will inspire creativity, strengthen our community, and enrich lives for generations to come.
Help us ensure no young artist is turned away next summer.
GIVE NOW TO BEYOND THE WALLS
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Shop our Fiber Arts!
Highlighting weaving, crochet, needlepoint, and purses.
Artists:
Etta Stewart, a PA native grew up spending hours watching her grandmother sew and learned how to make her own clothes. She believes that creativity is passed through family and embraces the next creative generation. Her purses stitching patterns challenge contemporary styles and create a whimsical addition to any wardrobe!
“Nancy Ponton has been involved with fabrics as long as she can remember. She strives to design fashions that were more stylish for her than what was typically available for purchase. When Nancy retired from the federal government she shifted her “fabric handcrafting” to a full time business making eclectic fabric and woolen handbags.”
Patricia Elmes Farley, a Chincoteague native is a full-time textile and paper artist, sometimes writer and storyteller and enjoys creating beautiful and functional crossbody bags for women out of luxury fabrics.
| | | | Subscribe to our Special Interest Newsletters | |
Creative Connections Newsletter is a monthly digest dedicated to our community members aged 60 and better. Rather than searching through a full calendar of events, this newsletter brings a curated selection of opportunities directly to your inbox.
What you’ll find inside:
- Health & Vitality: Proactive wellness tips for healthy aging.
- Creative Connections Club: A first look at the social gatherings specifically designed for 60+.
- Artistic Inspiration: Classes, programs, & activities to spark your next creative project.
Young Artists Monthly is designed for busy parents and guardians, this is your "cheat sheet" for youth programming. It’s the easiest way to keep track of registration dates and family-friendly activities without the clutter.
What you’ll find inside:
- First Access: Register for camps. classes, and programs your kids will love.
- Upcoming Calendar: A list of events to mark which family member wants to create first.
- Program Spotlights: Be the first to know about special programs for the family.
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Select Your Email Interests
Tell us what you want to see in your inbox. Update your profile to select the specific types of Art League news and events you want to receive.
*For your security an email to verify you are making changes will be sent to you first*
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| | Support the Art League of Ocean City | |
Join/Renew Your Membership
Become part of our creative community or renew your support to enjoy exclusive benefits while helping the arts thrive year-round.
Click Here To Join
Make a Donation
Your generous gift directly supports exhibitions, education, and outreach programs that make the arts accessible to all.
Click Here To Donate
Volunteer with Us
Share your time and talents by volunteering with the Art League and help bring our programs, events, and mission to life.
Click Here For More Info
Download Our App
Stay connected to classes, exhibitions, events, and the Ocean City Film Festival with the Art League of Ocean City app.
Click Here to Download
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Thank You Corporate Partners & Donors
Thank you to our generous donors and corporate partners whose support makes our exhibitions, education programs, and community outreach possible.
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Free Admission
Open Year Round
9am-4pm Mon-Fri, 11am-4pm Sat-Sun
(410) 524-9433
| | The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting artistic expression and appreciation for the creative arts in our community. Financial support comes primarily through membership dues from individuals and corporate partners. Funding is provided in part by the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council and the National Endowment of the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive. | | | | |
