It is the mission of the Gaithersburg Arts Barn to promote the enriching experience of participation in the arts by members of our community as well as to provide a nurturing environment conducive to the creative development of local visual and performing artists. Visitors to the Arts Barn will have the opportunity to observe the creative process as artists work in their studios, to participate in workshops and classes and to enjoy musical and theatrical performances.

The Gaithersburg Arts Barn is a unique place which offers something for the entire family. This elegant new facility combines both visual and performing arts.

The structure was originally built in 1900 and was used as a stable for the Tschiffely Family's horses. Newly renovated, it now stands as a facility which includes four artists-in-resident studios, an art gallery, and the City Art Shop on the first floor. The former barn loft has been transformed into a 99-seat theater for the performing arts.

The four spacious studios, which accommodate artists-in-residence, allows for the community to view artists in the process of creating their work. Artists-in-residence are selected based on their artistic merit and their proposed community outreach services. Our goal is to assure that a variety of artistic media are represented in the Arts Barn. Visitors to the Arts Barn will be able to watch these artists as they produce their work. Visitors are encouraged to investigate and explore the arts. Artists will also be giving lectures, demonstrations and classes at varying times.

Those who are art appreciators can become more aware of the planning and complexity inherent in the process of creating a work of art. Undoubtedly, one's increased understanding of the process, furthers our appreciation and enjoyment of the arts. Attending lectures and demonstrations, along with being able to talk with the artists, enhances the personal connection to the world of art.

The exhibition gallery features the work of our region's most accomplished artists. Rotating exhibits will display the work of painters, printmakers, sculptors, ceramic artists, and many other mediums or types of art. This professional level exhibition space provides our community with a premiere art gallery.

The unique 99-seat theater for the performing arts offers a whole new layer of artistic exploration. The theater offers an intimate theatrical experience and is equipped to provide first class performances. Performing artists will give master classes, lectures, and workshops to a variety of age groups. Through this close encounter with actors, directors, and stage technicians, children and adults will become more aware of what it takes to produce theatrical entertainment. A full range of performances will be explored: comedy, repertory, monologues, pantomime, puppetry and more.

The charming City Art Shop displays works by regional artists. We will have a selection of items ranging from framed and matted art (photographs, watercolor, oils, acrylics), cards, jewelry, paper-mache, ceramics, enamels, baskets and much more. If you are looking for a distinctive gift, drop by and see us.

The Arts Barn looks forward to serving the community and offers a unique experience to those who join us. We encourage you to visit the Gaithersburg Arts Barn at 311 Kent Square Road, the Kentlands, Gaithersburg, Maryland. For further information, please call the Arts Barn at 301-258-6394.