Annapolis Arts Alliance & Gallery 57 West Presents
America 250:
This Is Now
A collaborative summer art experience exploring patterns, heritage, innovation, and storytelling — built by our community, one canvas at a time.
How to Participate
Make your mark on the community quilt
Pick up a 3×3 canvas at Gallery 57 West starting June 7
Create artwork at home or in the gallery using provided acrylic markers and geometric stamps
Draw from nautical patterns, floral motifs, geometric forms, or abstract designs
Return your canvas to the gallery — or let staff know when you’re done creating on-site. Selected pieces become part of a growing community quilt installation
* Submitted canvases are reviewed as part of the selection process. Gallery 57 West may decline submissions that include content deemed unsuitable for a general audience or unrelated to the purpose of the exhibition.
The project
Tradition, technology, and the patterns that connect us
This quilt-inspired series examines how craft traditions and artificial intelligence both build from recognizable patterns — connecting past and present, culture and code. Patterns from across cultures are reimagined through a contemporary digital lens.
Featured artist
Included in the exhibition
Davar Ardalan
The America 250: This Is Now series was designed by our featured artist, Davar Ardalan. Davar’s work brings together stencil traditions and handmade processes with a thoughtful exploration of AI, culture, and storytelling — bridging tactile craft with emerging technologies in a way that reflects both artistic lineage and contemporary inquiry.
Visit us
Gallery 57 West
Gallery 57 West
57 West Street
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
Open June – August 2026 · Closed Tuesdays
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