SPS Foundation brings free, hands-on art, technology, and collectibles experiences to communities across western Maryland.

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.

STEVEN P. SHAFER FOUNDATION • EST. 2026 • SPS

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.