Snow Hill, MD, May 31, 2023 – Worcester County Public Schools cut the ribbon of its first Free Little Art Gallery at Snow Hill Elementary School on May 25, 2023. The brainchild of SHES Art Teacher Mrs. Cindy Sullivan, this innovative initiative aims to foster artistic expression, connect students and community members, and bring joy to the hearts of all who encounter the gallery.
Located at Snow Hill Elementary School (SHES), the Free Little Art Gallery invites students, staff, and visitors to share art. Inspired by the concept of Little Free Libraries, it operates on a “take a piece, leave a piece” philosophy, meaning visitors can freely enjoy and appreciate the art on display, and if they feel inspired, contribute their own artwork to share with others. This unique approach not only promotes artistic collaboration, but also encourages community engagement with the arts.
Funded by a grant from the Worcester County Arts Council (WCAC) Community Arts Development program, the Free Little Art Gallery is already filled with paintings, drawings, art supplies, small sculptures and mixed media works. The gallery itself was built by Worcester Technical High School (WTHS) Carpentry program, led by Mr. Clint Timmons, and etched glass was provided by WTHS’s Silviya Gallo and her lasercutting equipment.
Promoting inclusivity to all, anyone can take and make a piece regardless of artistic skill level, background, culture or age, helping SHES to become a hub of community art. “This new Free Little Art Gallery will lower barriers for amateur artists, students and others who may never show their work in formal spaces. It makes art accessible to everyone, making life better when living among original art”, says WCAC Administrative Assistant Sharon Sorrentino. Mrs. Tamara Mills, WCPS Coordinator of Fine and Performing Arts added, “We are thankful for SHES’s new Free Little Art Gallery and the art and partnerships it will continue to cultivate in Snow Hill”.
To ensure the success of this initiative, community members may also leave art supplies for others to take to create art at home. For more information, or to become a partner or sponsor, please contact Cindy Sullivan at CLSullivan@worcesterk12.org.
