Art at Adkins
Adkins Arboretum offers a variety of opportunities and the ideal setting for artists and guests to participate in and enjoy art.
In the Art Gallery at the Visitor’s Center, we feature a new exhibit every other month showcasing artists from in and around the Delmarva. We have featured artists whose creations range from ceramics to mixed media to watercolor, and our art receptions provide the perfect opportunity for Adkins members and guests to hear the artist’s story firsthand.
Fiber arts take the Arboretum by storm during our annual Yarnstorming event in February and March. These beautiful, colorful, knitted, or crocheted designs create a unique visual delight in an otherwise gray winter landscape. A reception is held to highlight these talented individuals and hear the stories behind their designs.
The Arboretum hosts an Annual Juried Art Show in March and April. Each year, a different Juror selects artwork submitted by various artists. Selected pieces are featured in our Gallery, and the Juror chooses a winner to receive the coveted Leon Andrus Award. A second artist is chosen to receive an Honorable Mention. The reception for this event brings all of the amazing artists together for a special time of connection and celebration.
Mary and Howard McCoy, local artists and Art Committee members with deep roots on the Eastern Shore and a special connection with the Arboretum host an outdoor art sculpture exhibition each year from June through September. Whimsical and sometimes discreet creations are scattered throughout our trails, adding to the magical experience of being in nature.
Plein Air Adkins, held the first weekend in November, has quickly become a favorite event for plein air painters from all over the area. Painters dot the trails, creating a one-of-a-kind, nature-inspired piece of art that is uniquely Adkins. When the bell rings and the painting stops, their work is proudly displayed on the lawn behind the Visitor’s Center and available for purchase. Live entertainment, prizes for winning artwork, and a great atmosphere make this an extraordinary day for artists, visitors, and staff.
Whatever your artistic preference, we may have something just for you. We hope that you will come and enjoy or participate in one of these truly special events!
Exhibiting at Adkins
Artists interested in exhibiting at Adkins Arboretum are invited to email 6–12 digital images of their artwork, a resume, and letter of introduction to Lisa Sheehan at lsheehan@adkinsarboretum.org, attention of the Art Committee. Please include your website address and/or social media links.
Alternately, you can mail the above information to:
Adkins Arboretum
Attn: Lisa Sheehan
12610 Eveland Road
Ridgely, MD 21660
