Arts Week Brings New Mural, Improv Shows To Downtown Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Annapolis Arts Week began Sunday, June 5. It will run through Sunday, June 12.

The week will bring a new mural and art celebrations to the state capital.

The mural will honor late Maryland musician Eva Cassidy. Future History Now, a team of muralists, will paint the work next Stan and Joe's Saloon at 37 West Street.

The project started during this weekend's First Sunday Arts Festival. The artists will wrap up by this Wednesday's Dinner Under the Stars, when visitors can dine beneath twinkling lights on the first block of West Street.

Residents can also enjoy Dinner Under the Stars this Saturday. Both events will run from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and feature live music.

Attendees can watch artists paint nocturnal scenes from dusk Wednesday through dawn Thursday. The Ballet Theatre of Maryland will perform a half-hour before Saturday's Dinner Under the Stars.

The ballerinas will also dance at Art on the Avenue this Thursday. The event will bring music, food trucks, performances and art demonstrations to Maryland Avenue. Anybody is welcome to the free event, which lasts from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

What's Dope will host open mic nights on Tuesday and Sunday. The Londontowne Symphony Orchestra and the Eastport Oyster Boys will take the stage Saturday evening at Maryland Hall. ArtFarm Studios will welcome improv shows on Monday and Saturday nights.

More than 20 galleries will welcome art enthusiasts and exhibitions. Participating businesses include staples like the Annapolis Marine Art Gallery and 49 West Coffeehouse, Winebar & Gallery.

The Annapolis Arts District encouraged guests to explore the city's outdoor sculpture exhibit from acclaimed artist David Hayes. The 15 abstract pieces are scattered from downtown to Eastport and beyond. Visit annapolisartsdistrict.org/david-hayes to learn more about this public exhibit.

More information on all the festivities and a full schedule of events are posted at annapolisartsweek.com.