Artist members offer their talents with paintings designed to “Celebrate St. Michaels”. Each year, the banners are produced through a collaboration of the St. Michaels Art League, Talbot County advocates, and local merchants.
In addition to the installation of the banners, by Choptank Electric Cooperative, an exhibit of the original banner artwork hangs throughout the month of April at the St. Michaels branch of the Talbot County Free Library, 106 Fremont Street. The Talbot County Free Library has been a partner of the St. Michaels Art League, lending space, throughout many years of advocacy. Another partner, the Talbot County Arts Council, continues to encourage the League’s community art endeavors with funding support.
As a reward for their efforts, contributing artists can gain a commercial opportunity. Kevin Snelling, a local merchant, singles out banner artwork and produces posters of the winning images, which are offered for sale at Creative X-Pressions on South Talbot Street. This year, he is again joined by Ms. Alice Marie Gravely, who will show posters at her gallery, A.M. Gravely, on SouthTalbot Street. In addition, Michael Morgan has volunteered to fly banners at the St. Michaels Marina. Other merchants are encouraged to participate as well.
Patrons will have an additional opportunity to purchase original banner paintings during the League’s Labor Day weekend art show on the grounds of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church on Talbot Street. The outdoor banners made from these paintings can be purchased directly from the artists in December, when the banners are taken down from the street poles.
St. Michaels Art League membership is open to artists and art enthusiasts. Information on events, meetings, and membership can be found at www.smartleague.org. Sincere appreciation is extended to the Talbot Arts Council, St. Michaels Branch of the Talbot County Free Library, Choptank Electric Cooperative, and local merchants for their continued support.
