LEONARDTOWN — The Color & Light Society of Southern Maryland is expanding access to original art across Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties through exhibitions, public events, workshops and hands-on community projects rather than operating from a single traditional gallery space.
The nonprofit organization of more than 30 professional visual artists creates work in a wide range of media, including painting, pottery, sculpture, photography, jewelry, woodworking, glasswork, mixed media, watercolor, oil, acrylic, pastel and encaustic. Its “Gallery Without Walls” approach brings art directly into everyday Southern Maryland life at local venues, festivals, partnerships and special programs.
Society members frequently offer free interactive art activities at community events, welcoming people of all ages and experience levels to meet artists, try creative processes and contribute to shared projects. These activities foster connection and make art more visible and accessible in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties.
The group is proud to sponsor two upcoming events in St. Mary’s County. On May 21, Color & Light artists will participate in Uncorked & Unveiled: Island Edition, hosted by the St. Mary’s County Arts Council at Port of Leonardtown Winery. Members will celebrate fellow artist Cindy Martin-Brennan, whose artwork was selected for the label of a new white wine release. The Society will also lead a fun interactive activity for attendees.
On June 5, the Society will support Raining Cats & Dogs — A Community Art Show at the St. Mary’s County Arts Council. Pottery artist Barbara Hak is leading the effort, with Color & Light members creating more than 20 animal figures for participants to paint. The free activity aligns with the show’s mission to bring people together through art while raising awareness for a local animal-focused cause.
Beyond these events, Color & Light members participate in exhibitions, art shows, demonstrations, educational programs and collaborative projects across the three counties. Upcoming opportunities include shows at the Fenwick Inn, Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center, St. Mary’s County Arts Council, Three Notch Theater and other community venues throughout 2026.
The Society’s work reflects a commitment to supporting local artists, encouraging artistic growth and sharing visual art with the broader Southern Maryland community. By stepping outside traditional gallery walls, the group helps make art part of daily life in the region — whether at a winery fundraiser in Leonardtown, a pet-themed show in St. Mary’s County or public demonstrations in Calvert or Charles counties.
“Color & Light artists show up throughout the community — at exhibitions, public events, arts partnerships, local venues, workshops, and special programs,” the organization states. This approach strengthens connections between artists and residents while highlighting the creative talent rooted in Southern Maryland.
Community members are invited to learn more about the Color & Light Society, view member artwork, meet local artists and explore upcoming events at colorandlightsociety.com. Information about becoming a member is also available on the site.
The Color & Light Society of Southern Maryland is a nonprofit organization of professional visual artists from Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties. With more than 30 members working in diverse media, the Society supports artistic development, promotes original artwork and brings creative experiences to communities throughout the region. Known as a “Gallery Without Walls,” it connects artists and the public through exhibitions, events, partnerships and interactive community art activities.
Southern Maryland residents can expect to see Color & Light artists at more events this year as the group continues its mission of making art accessible and meaningful in everyday community spaces.
