The purpose of the Steven P. Shafer (SPS) foundation is to preserve the legacy of Steven Shafer by providing cultural enrichment to western Maryland by showcasing art, technology and collectibles.

The goal is to bring a Smithsonian-like experience to Hagerstown, Cumberland, and Frederick without traveling to Washington. Initially these experiences will be limited to ‘pop-up’ exhibitions:

  • To allow the exhibitions to move between locations, serving a greater potential population
  • To save money without leasing a dedicated space
  • To allow for experimentation of content and programs
Get studio updates See what's on

Free evening classes at 6 sites across the city. No experience required.

Find the next pop-up

Exhibitions move between Hagerstown, Cumberland, and Frederick. Check the map for the current location.

Currently on view: 21 S Potomac St, Hagerstown, MD 21740 — update this pin as each new pop-up location is confirmed.

6studio sites this year
1,400+neighbors taught a new skill
90%instructors are local artists
0 dollarstuition for every class

Three ways to walk in the door

You don't need a portfolio or a plan. Show up to any of these and someone will hand you what you need.

Tue & Thu evenings

Drop-in making

Tools, materials, and a working artist on hand — clay, print, textiles, and woodshop, rotating by site.

Six-week sessions

Skill-building classes

Small groups build toward something real: a set of mugs, a mural design, a book of screenprints.

Spring and fall

Public wall projects

Residents design and paint murals on buildings they pass every day, alongside a lead artist from the block.

"I hadn't touched a paintbrush since I was nine. Now I run the Tuesday print table." Marisol Vega, studio volunteer, Eastside site

Hear about new sessions first

One email a month: new classes, open studio hours, and calls for wall project artists.

We'll never share your email. Read our privacy note.