The art world in Prince George’s is thriving. Local artists are creating beautiful and unique works in small studios, community centers, private art-centered businesses, and art schools — and community members are embracing the ingenuity and inspiration. 

 

If you’re interested in spending the day entrenched in the Prince George’s art scene, there are many options. Use this guide to choose a neighborhood, build an itinerary, and embrace the expression.

 

Stroll along these three routes for a view into the region’s art world:

 

  1. Walk the Hyattsville arts scene. 

 

  • Start your visit at the Art Works Now building to see the impacts of high-quality arts education on a community. If you can time your visit right, you just might be able to participate in a class yourself. Regardless, you can check out the site’s 24/7 Little Free Art Shop.

  • Head north to get some art supplies at Artist & Craftsman Supply. The store sells supplies for sculpting, painting, printmaking, crafting, drawing, leather working, photography, bookmaking, framing, and so much more. You can even find kid-specific kits for projects that the family will love.

  • Next, check out the textile arts at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center. The space is dedicated to sustaining and elevating contemporary printmaking, papermaking, and book arts. You can see professional artists’ studios, join an event, or learn about the art form through a workshop or lesson. The center frequently hosts artist talks and demos, so check the calendar to plan your visit.

  • Make an art piece of your own at Tuft’n Up Studio & Social, where rugmaking brings people together. This art form celebrates color, individuality, and inclusivity. Book a spot ahead of time to ensure you can bring home a unique piece.

  • Grab lunch at a spot that shows its appreciation for the arts all over its space. The interior of Busboys and Poets in Hyattsville is full of art, from the murals painted on the walls to the art hanging above the bookshelves. The restaurant also hosts open mic nights and poetry events.

  • While the Vanadu Art House is away from the main arts strip of Hyattsville, it’s worth stopping at before or after your stroll. The homegrown art space is the creation of local artist Clarke Bedford. You’ll find found art and metal sculptures, including ones built on cars, packing nearly every inch of the yard.

 

  1. Spend some time with Mount Rainier’s artists:

 

  • If you’re interested in learning how to revamp your furniture brightly and colorfully, stop by Tanglewood Works. The shop calls to all maximalist creatives, and its owner prides herself on teaching fellow DIYers how to achieve their upcycling dreams.

  • At Otis Street Arts Project, local artists are front and center. This studio and exhibition space was built as an incubator for dynamic, community-oriented artists. You’ll find artist lectures, exhibitions, workshops, readings, performances, and more.

  • Nearby, The Washington Glass Studio provides space for artists, students, and the public to learn about contemporary glass art. You can try a hands-on class or workshop, learn about fusing, plate glass techniques, cast glass sculpture, glass and steel integration, and more. Look up the class schedule before your visit if you’re interested in participating.

  • Don’t miss Red Dirt Studio, where you can visit individual studios and learn from local artists. There are photographers, fiber artists, sculptors, potters, and more. One important note: unless you’re visiting during a posted event, you’ll need to schedule your visit ahead of time, so reach out through the website.

  • Head to the Brentwood Arts Exchange to see its two contemporary art galleries, catch a live music performance, or attend an art class. Don’t miss the retail shop at the front, which features pottery, jewelry, print work, baskets, and more.

  • Finish your day with a meal at the Mixt Food Hall, close to the Arts Exchange, where you can spot local artwork on the walls between the multiple restaurant options. Peruse the food and creativity at the same time, choosing which experience speaks to you the most.

 

  1. Dive into the art in National World. 

 

  • Tour the art at the MGM National Harbor Heritage Collection. You’ll find large-scale sculptures, paintings, photographs, and more from an array of global artists. Because the artwork is spread throughout the resort, you can view it any time, day or night. Start with the three 60-foot-tall stainless steel figures of the Unity sculpture at the entry.

  • Check out the studio from local artist Josue Martinez: Corinto Gallery in National Harbor. The site hosts a carefully curated collection of digital prints, apparel and accessories, paintings, and graphic art. Check out the print shop and learn more about the printing process.

  • There are multiple sculptures and statues spread throughout National Harbor, with The Awakening being the most famous. Don’t miss this beloved piece, which spreads more than 70 feet across the Potomac River beach. Continue your sculptural adventure with an art scavenger hunt and interactive guide built by the National Harbor team: text ACNH to (301) 747-0466.

  • Get immersed in the community art scene of the region at Arts’tination. The space hosts exhibitions, public programming, workshops, and other art-focused opportunities. Stop by the shop to purchase works and creations by local artists. You’ll find contemporary and traditional handmade goods.

  • If you’re looking for a place to create your own artwork, stop by Muse Paintbar. You’ll have to book a spot ahead of time, so check out the schedule and pick out which painting you’d most like to have hanging in your home. It’s a great spot to sip a drink and get creative with your friends.

 

Explore your own creativity at these art-focused spots in Prince George’s.