You’ve enjoyed the work of the Charles County Arts Alliance, even if you weren’t aware of it.
Have you admired the work of artists at the hospital or the Waldorf West library? Taken in a play or enjoyed a free concert? Attended an arts festival in the county?
If you answered yes, you’ve benefitted from the arts alliance’s work.
Founded in 1987, the mission of the Charles County Arts Alliance is to “stimulate, promote, encourage, and provide recognition of the arts and the creative spirit in Charles County.” Designated as the official arts council for Charles County, the alliance is recognized as such by the Maryland State Arts Council. The organization is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.
Image via Charles County Arts Alliance website.
The arts alliance is active in the community in many ways. It showcases the work of visual artists in rotating exhibits at five galleries in the county. The galleries are located at these five facilities:
- University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center
- Charlotte Hall Veterans Home
- Waldorf West Library
- Commissioner’s Gallery in the Charles County Government Building
- Community Bank of the Chesapeake, Waldorf Branch
Supporting the arts in schools is a core mission of the Charles County Arts Alliance. Each year, the alliance provides art boxes full of art supplies to needy elementary-age children. And, at its annual gala, the alliance awards grant money to local nonprofits and schools to help them carry out their cultural programs, projects, and performances. In 2015, nearly $45,000 in grant money was awarded.
Image via Charles County Arts Alliance website.
In addition, the Charles County Arts Alliance awards a $1,000 scholarship to five graduating seniors every year, choosing one student at each county high school.
The busy arts alliance also organizes annual events, including ArtFest, which features local artisans and crafters, performances, and more. The alliance presents artist workshops and master classes and works to ensure that underserved communities in Charles County have access to the arts and art programs.
The Charles County Arts Alliance is volunteer run and always looking for volunteers and members to help it further its mission. For more information, visit the alliance’s website at http://charlescountyarts.org/.
