This March, Chestertown RiverArts invites the community to experience a vibrant lineup of exhibitions and special events in celebration of Women’s History Month. From dynamic opening receptions to an engaging artist talk, a children’s superhero workshop, and a special live musical performance, these events promise inspiration for all ages.
Opening Receptions – Friday, March 6 (5–7 p.m.)
RiverArts launches two powerful exhibitions on Friday, March 6:
Something Out of Kilter: Women Right the World
Opening Reception: 5–7 p.m. (Opening remarks at 5:30 p.m.)
Community Arts Center, 343 High Street“When Good Triumphed”: Superheroes and the Moral Imagination
Opening Reception: 5–7 p.m. (Opening remarks at 6:00 p.m.)
The Robert Ortiz Studios, 207C South Cross Street
“Dignity” By Diane RappisiSomething Out of Kilter: Women Right the World
Community Arts Center, 343 High Street
This dynamic exhibition celebrates diverse perspectives and the bold ways women respond to a world that feels a little out of kilter. Inspired by the words of Sojourner Truth, the show brings together mixed-media works by local and international artists.
A collaboration between Chestertown RiverArts and Spiralis Gallery, the exhibition features work by Sydney Kay, Zsudayka Nzinga, Abu Oluwaseyi, Esewhaye “Teestar” Oghenetejiri, Charlese Phillips, Diane Rappisi, Godwin Rotimi, Noreen Smith, and Lawrence Torto.
An Artist Talk with Sheila Exum and participating artists will take place on Friday, March 13 at 6 p.m. at 343 High Street.
When Good Triumphed
Robert Ortiz Studios, 207C South Cross Street
This compelling exhibition explores the role of superheroes in children’s imagination and the enduring cultural power of hero narratives. Artist Sheila Exum reflects on the inspiration behind the series:
“One day, in my exhaustion with the daily news, I began to reminisce about simpler times… I remembered especially the Saturday
“Batman” By Sheila Exummornings of my childhood… watching my favorite cartoons… I began to paint the superheroes I had watched as a kid, beginning with Batman. It became a kind of therapy for living in these twisted times.”
Her dynamic paintings, including her reimagining of Batman, will be on view from March 6 through March 20 at The Robert Ortiz Studios.
Sheila Exum, a mixed-media visual artist based in Magnolia, Delaware, blends realist and abstract elements to create images that leap from the canvas. Influenced by illustrator Norman Rockwell, Exum’s work captures vivid color, emotion, and storytelling. She holds degrees from Delaware State University and Wilmington University and actively gives back through community arts education and nonprofit support.
Family Event – Saturday, March 14
Cape Crusaders Children’s Superhero Costume Workshop
1 p.m. | 343 High Street & 207C South Cross Street
Young heroes are invited to design and create their own superhero costumes in this imaginative, hands-on workshop inspired by When Good Triumphed. Registration is available through RiverArts: https://www.ctownra.org/art-
Free Concert – Friday, March 20, 7 p.m.
Karen Somerville and Pam OrtizIn celebration of Women’s History Month, RiverArts presents a FREE concert featuring musicians Pam Ortiz and Karen Somerville at Robert Ortiz Studios, 207C South Cross Street. This special evening performance will close out the exhibition period with music honoring the creativity and strength of women. No registration required, open seating.
These March events would not be possible without the generous support and hospitality of Bob Ortiz. As the date approaches for the closing of his studio, RiverArts is deeply honored to be among the final events to benefit from the welcoming space he has so often shared with the community.
For more information, visit ctownra.org/whm or follow Chestertown RiverArts on social media.
