Artists & Art Lovers

Covid Alert: We will start having classes again at Canal Park on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Please bring your own hand sanitizer, and mask are a must! We'll practice from a safe distance from each other; and progress from there. "DC Kali" is an official training group for FCS Kali. Our curriculum includes knifes, swords, stick-fighting, striking, and grappling; but we place a special emphasis on edged weapons. Please come out and learn some Kali. Our aim is to train hard, learn some sound defense strategies, and make friends along the way. Although FCS Kali is a combat-oriented systems that involves edged weapons, we provide a safe environment for learning w/o sacrificing realism in our training. We teach in small semi-private groups, allowing each individual student to progress as quickly as he or she can absorb the info being taught. Hope to see you all there. Mosi K. Jack, Esq. Training Group Instructor · FCS Manong (under Tuhon Ray Dionaldo) http://www.fcskali.com/ ) FCS Kali: Founded by Tuhon Ray Dionaldo,Filipino Combat Systems is an organization dedicated the preservation and promotion of all Filipino Martial Arts. Filipino Combat Systems(FCS) is an organization/system with members from around the world. FCS is based onTuhon Ray Dionaldo's over 35 years of practicing various FMA (Filipino Martial Arts) styles. He's combine elements of each, into one system that's efficient, fast, concise, and logical. FCS members have extremely diverse backgrounds, and Martial Arts systems. We’ve all come together because of our love of the Filipino Martial Arts, and our unwillingness to become involved in the politics that has so often stifled our growth. Please pick one of the following class and fee combos: Drop-In Fee: $25/per class (after 1st free Saturday class) Monthly fees: $80/month (Wednesday park classes included for free), or Quarterly fees: $210/every 3 months (which comes to $70/month; includes the Wednesday park classes), or Wednesday Park only: $50/month • Credit cards and Paypal are preferred method of payment (online payments via Square are available at: https://squareup.com/market/dc-kali ) • One free trial class is permitted (but must rsvp ahead of class) • Equipment: if you have training knives, rattan sticks, training swords, and/or mma gloves bring them. If not, we may have a few extra. Training Videos http://www.fcskaliphilippines.com/fcs-curriculum-videos.html http://www.bloodnbonesgear.com/id5.html

Come and join Northern Virginia porcelain artists. We will provide all the paints and materials needed. Just bring your smile and creativity. We paint from 10:00 am - 2:00pm every Tuesday & Wednesday. Please RSVP in advance if you like to join oir group. Text: 703-906-9150 We are located few minutes from Tyson’s corner in McLean.

The [One Spirit Martial Arts](https://www.virginiabjj.com/programs/kidsbjj) (OSMA) Youth [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ) program is designed to help children build **confidence**, **coordination**, and **practical [self-defense](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-defense) skills** in a **safe**, **structured**, and **positive environment**. The **drop-in fee** for **non-members** is **$30**, payable at the door. This class is for students **six** to **thirteen** years of age and runs from **5:15 PM** to **6:00 PM**, providing a **focused**, **age-appropriate training session** that fits well into an after-school routine. Located in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia), OSMA is easily commutable from Oakton, Reston, Sterling, and [Great Falls](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Falls,_Virginia), as well as other nearby [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) communities. Parents are welcome to **stay and watch** \-\- OSMA has a **dedicated seating area** where you can comfortably **observe your child’s progress** during class; parents may also take advantage of the OSMA **guest WIFI** if they need an Internet connection. From a parent’s perspective, this class is about more than martial arts: children learn how to **move their bodies with purpose**, **stay calm under pressure**, **follow instructions**, **work with others**, and **build resilience**. Students are taught to apply [Gracie Jiu-Jitsu-based](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) self-defense concepts **responsibly**, with an emphasis on **control**, **safety**, and **respect**. What children will learn in this after-school program: * **Movement** and **coordination** drills * Practical **self-defense techniques** * Standing **takedowns** * **Ground techniques** and **positional awareness** * Position-specific **drilling** * Controlled **sparring** matches (age-appropriate and supervised) * **Games** and **fun activities** to keep kids engaged and motivated Whether your child is new to [martial arts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martial_arts) or already active, this program offers a balanced mix of **skill development**, **physical activity**, and **confidence-building** \-\- all in a **supportive environment**.

Beginner-friendly evening [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ) class [at OSMA in Herndon, VA](https://www.virginiabjj.com/): Learn escapes, submissions, and live strategy with expert instruction. **🔥** No experience is required -- new students and first-timers are genuinely welcome. Classes focus on practical, real-world fundamentals taught in a safe, technical, and highly supportive environment. You’ll learn how to **escape common holds**, **apply effective submissions**, and **understand live positional strategy** \-\- the same leverage\-based system used in modern BJJ and [Mixed Martial Arts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mixed_martial_arts) (MMA), adapted for everyday people. This **gi class** takes place every **Monday** and **Wednesday** and includes **one hour of guided instruction** followed by **one hour of optional open training** (live rounds, drilling, review, and research). Gis are available if you need one. **Drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20** and can be **paid on-site**. We are located in **Suite #130** \-\- let us know when you arrive and we’ll take care of the rest\.

Join DC Metro Crafts for the mid-month meetup! Bring your own cross stitch, knitting, crochet, or other portable craft. The Southwest Library is right off the Waterfront Metro. We'll be in Meeting Room 1. Go through both glass double doors and loop around to the right to find us. There are plenty of tables to spread out.

Our February workshop is focused on drawing and watercolor. During this workshop, you can either draw or paint with watercolors. What you create is up to you! There are no limits. We do not do prompts of any kind. You'll have the guidance of a professional artist to help you along the way. Price: $30 Pay *$10 non-refundable deposit to secure your spot. Remaining $20 due before workshop starts.* 3 Time Slots Available: 10 AM – 12 PM 1 PM – 3 PM 3 PM – 5 PM Register here: [Workshops – Brandywine Art Lounge](https://brandywineartlounge.com/workshops/)

Artistic Artifacts hosts **Open Stitch sessions on the first and third Thursday evenings** from 5:30 - 7:30 pm — join us! This is a drop-in, bring your own hand stitching project and the necessary supplies (or you can knit, crochet... whatever needle arts you like). There’s no fee to attend, no instruction nor agenda — just a time to spend with other creatives! Visit our website for all other class & event information: **[https://artisticartifacts.com/collections/wk](https://artisticartifacts.com/collections/wk)**

We are FINALLY going to see this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition of modern and contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art! I saw Australian Aboriginal art for the first time when I spent a summer in Sydney, and it has haunted and mesmerized me ever since. MEET AT: Outside the main entrance to the East Building of the National Gallery, on 4th St. NW. The East Building is the building that does NOT have the big columns in front. Look for Molly with the rainbow LAL sign. COST: FREE! NEAREST METRO STOPS: Smithsonian; Judiciary Square This eye-opening exhibition introduces North American audiences to the varied visual iconographies of Indigenous Australia, which is made up of more than 250 distinct Indigenous nations. Explore this rich and living history of creativity through over 200 works made by more than 130 artists. Drawn exclusively from the collection of Melbourne’s [National Gallery of Victoria](https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/), *The Stars We Do Not See* offers a rare opportunity to experience some of the most significant examples of modern and contemporary Australian Indigenous art. Charting watershed moments in Indigenous art from the late 19th century to the present, this exhibition reveals a rich history of creativity that predates the arrival of the British. See the work of trailblazing painters including Anmatyerre superstar Emily Kam Kngwarray and Senior Yolŋu artist Gulumbu Yunupiŋu, known as "Star Lady," (whose works inspired the exhibition title) along with contemporary innovators such as Brook Andrew, Destiny Deacon, and Betty Muffler. Witness Australian Indigenous art in all its forms, from ochre bark paintings and experimental weavings to immersive sound and video art and powerful photographs.

Join us for this exciting painting workshop in NOVA area. I am a [professional artist/university prof.](https://www.nataliyagurshmanpaintings.com/) and I will teach you ins and outs of palette knife painting. You will learn new techniques, and create a beautiful landscape painting to take home. No experience required, just desire to explore something new and meet other creatives, and enjoy a sip of wine (not included in the ticket). All of the art supplies are provided. Please [sign up at the link below.](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/creative-singles-40-plus-painting-workshop-with-live-instruction-tickets-1980791522766?aff=oddtdtcreatorte) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/creative-singles-40-plus-painting-workshop-with-live-instruction-tickets-1980791522766?aff=oddtdtcreatorte I am looking forward to meeting everyone. Bring your friends and family.

Come the whole time or if you just spend 30 minutes. All are welcome. You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own coloring supplies but, if you don't have any, I will have plenty and am happy to share! (coloring books, colored pencils, and markers). Part of the mission of this group is to provide us an opportunity to check out AND SUPPORT local businesses. So, please don't bring any outside food/drinks and, while purchasing something isn't at all a REQUIREMENT to participate in the event, I do strongly encourage you to try something from the vendor :) I look forward to seeing and meeting you there! ***\*\*DISCLAIMER*\*\*** Photos may be taken during the event to be shared here on Meetup so feel free to let me know if you'd like to be excluded from them.

Come Craft with us. Don't let the lack of RSVPs stop you, they aren't required, nor is membership to our group. Bring your project and join a boisterous group of crafters in the Kogod Courtyard of the Smithsonian Portrait Gallery - American Art Museum. This glass roofed space is climate controlled and has the most beautiful light for crafting. (If there's an event in Courtyard head over to the MLK library Cafe.)

Tickets: $45.25 ( incl. $5.25 fees ) (advance registration required) Click the link below to register for this event: [https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1980470211716](https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1980470211716) How did a New York City carriage house originally built for the personal secretary of legendary American financier J.P. Morgan eventually become a professional society dedicated to the art of illustration in America? And what legacy has it crafted since its inception in 1901? It's time to explore a historic five-story townhouse in the Upper East Side where famous illustrators like N.C. Wyeth, Rube Goldberg, and Norman Rockwell once roamed the halls. Join [New York Adventure Club](http://www.nyadventureclub.com) for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour through the Museum of Illustration at the Society of Illustrators, the oldest non-profit dedicated to promoting the art of illustration in America. Led by a Society of Illustrators member, our special experience through their historic townhouse will include: * **A brief history of the Society's historic townhouse**, which was originally a carriage house built in 1875 for William P. Read, a personal secretary for financier J.P. Morgan * The **origin story of the Society of Illustrators**, from its founding fathers to its rapid growth in the 20th century * View the **current exhibitions on display at the Museum of Illustration and take a rare trip inside the archives**, which contains original works from famed illustrators throughout the century, one of the most comprehensive collections of this genre in the world * **A look inside the Society's historic library**, with its famous tiled fireplace with art dating back to the 1940s The **tour will conclude in the Society’s Hall of Fame Gallery**, where attendees can stay and purchase drinks. Don’t forget to take a look at the stunning **Norman Rockwell painting, "Christmas Coach,"** just behind the bar! [Click here](http://www.nyadventureclub.com/gallery/26736499) to see pictures from one of our last visits to the Society of Illustrators! See you there! \*The Society of Illustrators does not have an elevator **Testimonials** "Great building and great artwork" -Marilyn "The interesting details and facts about the collection, seeing the 'behind the scenes' areas." -Emile "Fascinating history. We were lucky to have the Director to show us round who was so nice and passionate about the work they do at the Society, including some fantastic outreach projects." -Lindsay "The gentleman was an excellent speaker who shared a wealth of information about the Society, the artwork and the artists." -Barbara Disclaimer By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our [terms of service](https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms). Categories: In-Person, Mansions & Private Clubs

Visual arts professor and illustrator Graham Elliott will present his documentary “New York In Motion” at Bergen Community College. “New York In Motion” explores the world of the motion design industry in one of the largest media-based cities in the world, New York City. The documentary was created by Professor Elliott and Roswitha Rodrigues, a professor at the School of Visual Arts in New York. “New York In Motion” will screen in Bergen’s Pitkin Education Center, room A-104 on Thursday, April 2. The screening will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Come flex your artistic muscles as we try a fun Artwork Out inspired by the colorful and historic storefronts of Lower Manhattan. Whether you want to wind down after a long week or explore your creativity in a new way, join us at Rapkin‑Gayle Plaza in Soho for a short inspiration walk followed by a doodle session at canteenM to try our "Storefront Dreams" art activity. What to expect: 🗒️ A playful drawing template to draw your own imaginary storefront 👏🏽 A welcoming community of makers of all skill levels 🖍️ Limited art supplies like pens and markers What to bring: 🌈 Your imagination ✏️ Art supplies you’d like to use Stay afterward for a casual show-and-tell or take us through your sketchbook doodles. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Learn more about this art project at bit.ly/Artwork_Out If you have any question the day of the event DM us on Instagram @StretchoftheImagination

Admission to the museum is free. This exhibition will be on display from February 19 until April 19, 2026. If you cannot attend the opening, please stop in and see the show at your convenience. Call ahead for hours. This exhibition is a comprehensive exploration of the symbiotic relationship between the world of fashion and fine art. Featuring more than 140 objects, including garments, accessories, textiles, photographs, and original artworks drawn from MFIT's permanent collection, *Art X Fashion* challenges the traditional hierarchies of visual culture, presenting fashion and art each as parallel, potent expressions of social, intellectual, and creative forces. Curated by Dr. Elizabeth Way, curator of costume and accessories at MFIT, the exhibition reflects MFIT's mission to advance the understanding and appreciation of fashion's critical role in culture. The core of *Art X Fashion* lies in its profound engagement with the eternal question: "Is fashion art?" The exhibition explores the ways that fashion has always been a partner, not a follower, of fine art, highlighting typically overlooked integrations throughout history. This includes examples of how the two disciplines have worked together to create European styles, from the drama of Rococo and Neoclassical grandeur to the unsettling world of Surrealism, to the shock of Pop Art and postmodernism. **Share your excitement using #ArtXFashionMFIT** **Go to https://www.fitnyc.edu/museum/exhibitions/art-fashion/index.php for more information.**

Artists and creatives of all skill levels are welcome, including aspiring creatives who are just starting out and professionals. Bring your drawing supplies or whatever creative project you're working on. Digital media like iPad sketching is ideal since the lighting might be a bit dim.

A personal guided conversation about looking, feeling, thinking, and wondering. Lets ask weird questions! Notice strange things! See what art does to us. I have a list of 5+ shows within walking distance of each other. We will meet up, visit a gallery full of weird and provocative things, stay as long as we like, and then move on to the next one and the next. We will look at what we want, it won’t be everything, lets keep our eyes fresh! As we go, I hope you’ll join me in an open, low pressure, no pretense conversation about what we see, and how it affects us. I will tell you what I know and what I intuit, and also what I don't know. I hope you will ask the questions that pop into your head. The shows of contemporary art include: * some stupendous lights. * Blissfull color field paintings. * Art with warm pools. * More, depending on how hungry we are for variety! We may discuss: * Why do people make the art they do? * Does it matter if you like the work? Why should we look at it? * What do you do when it is freaky or rude? If it provokes a response (including boredom, anger, confusion). Maybe that's an experience in itself? * What do you see that I don’t? * The gallery press release tells us why they are showing this work, do we find those words helpful or irrelevant? * What happens when we leave the exhibit? **Who am I?** I am a visual artist and set designer, with a strong interest in collaboration and engagement with intentional and accidental audiences. I find the NYC art world fascinating, complicated, welcoming and forbidding all at once. It is best done with friends like you. **Please Note #1:** *This is a tour for art newbies to art devotees. I welcome all.* I will ask you to share your thoughts and experiences, I am not lecturing you, I am not the expert here. You are welcome to love what you see, hate it or not get it. We do this together. **Please Note #2:** Covid conscious masking is welcome. I might wear one myself...

Get tickets at: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/878650696887](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/878650696887) You're invited to this fun, creative, social, and fun event! We will be painting in Central Park under the guidance of a master artist! Please bring something to sit on (towel is fine). IMPORTANT NOTE: CLICKING THE "RSVP AND PAY ORGANIZER DIRECTLY BUTTON" ON MEETUP DOES NOT GET YOU A TICKET/SPOT. YOU HAVE TO CLICK THE LINK TO THE EVENTBRITE PAGE AND PURCHASE A TICKET THERE. PRICE GOES UP AS EVENT TIME APPROACHES AND MAY SELL OUT SO GET YOUR TICKET ON EVENTBRITE ASAP. Included: a pre-sketched canvas, unlimited painting materials (brushes, acrylic paints etc.) and a take home bag. We do not give out smocks so please dress appropriately. Come on out, make new friends and paint a great canvas under the guidance of a master artist! Bring your own food and/or wine or whatever cocktails you'd like. This is a BYOB so bring your drinks & snacks - have yourself a picnic while getting instruction for painting! If you are bringing certain types of "drinks", please be discreet in Central Park 🙂 *DIRECTIONS TO FIND THE GROUP:* *We are located in a cul-de-sac at PINETUM EAST. We will be behind this row of benches (right under the trees). If you are coming from the east side you can find us by entering Central Park on East 84th street. Walk up the ramp, cross over the road and head west. If you are traveling from the west side we are east of the basketball courts. We will email you with more precise instructions after you sign up.* What to expect: • Step-by-step, group-oriented painting instruction, which is designed to simultaneously entertain and enlighten our members. • We'll have a professional artist guide you through a featured painting that is yours to keep and proudly display. And don’t worry — no experience is necessary. • 2 hour course lead that teaches you the art of mixing colors, blending and painting techniques. • All supplies provided - 12x16 pre-sketched canvas, unlimited acrylic paint (water based), brushes, and aprons. This is going to be a fun time!!!!!! FAQs: What if it rains? We will email attendees a rain date. How many are attending? Up to 20 people. Can I still attend If I don't know how to paint? Yes, there's no experience necessary. Can I come alone? Yes, about 80% come on their own. Is this age specific? No, all are welcome. THIS IS A MULTI-MEETUP GROUP EVENT. 15 OTHER GROUPS HAVE ALSO BEEN INVITED SO WE'LL BE SURE TO HAVE A GOOD SIZE TURNOUT. THE RSVP LIST ON MEETUP REFLECTS ONLY A SMALL PORTION OF ATTENDEES. ***\*\*\*\* SEE MORE UPCOMING NYC AREA EVENTS AT [WWW.FRIENDZYEVENTS.COM](http://www.friendzyevents.com) \*\*\*\**** Get tickets at: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/878650696887](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/878650696887)