Graw Alley Interactive Mural Park

 

Will Ezra Berger’s murals be preserved?

Murals on adjacent buildings in Graw Alley will not be impacted by the new construction. We are exploring several methods through which the murals on the 123 Market street building can be recreated to ensure that they remain a vibrant feature of Harmer’s Town Art Center.

 

Will the Interactive Mural Park be open during construction? 

Yes. While construction fencing may be up at various points in time, Graw Alley will remain safely accessible throughout construction. 

 

Will the mural audio tour be available during construction?

Yes. You will still be able to scan the QR codes on murals that are not impacted by construction and the the stories of all the murals will remain on our website here: https://www.harmerstown.org/mural-audio-tour

 

Are the stories depicted in the murals true?

All the mural’s stories have been researched thoroughly by local historian Dr. Amy Rosenkrans.  She has also noted anything that is a matter of local legend.

 

 

Museum and Art Center

 

What is the overall vision for the art center?

Harmer’s Town Art Center will be a first-of-its-kind regional arts destination in the heart of Havre de Grace’s Arts and Entertainment District, bringing together art, history, and community through artist studios, a makerspace, galleries, classrooms, a local history museum, and an interactive one-acre outdoor art park that invites learning, creativity, and connection year-round.

 

Where can I see more detailed plans?

You can view the presentation slides or watch the Harmer’s Town Art Center presentation to the Havre de Grace City Council at the top of the FAQ page.

 

Why is it necessary to replace the building at 123 market street 

The building is not safe. Its condition means that replacing the building will cost at least $10 million less than trying to repair the building - money that we simply do not have and would set the project back years if not end it altogether - additionally, the new building will be more accessible and sustainable and come with lower operating costs

 

What is the timeline for construction?

Phase I (Graw Alley Interactive Mural Park) is complete and open to the public Construction of the facility is expected to start in late 2026, with a grand opening in late 2027.

 

What are the benefits to the community? 

Visitors will enjoy rotating exhibitions, museum experiences, artist demonstrations, hands-on workshops, summer camps, family programs, public lectures, and cultural events. 

Harmer’s Town Art Center is also designed to become one of the region’s premier cultural destinations and a driver of local growth. 

Projected impact:

•20,000 visitors a year in the first three years, growing to 35,000

•Thousands of students served every year

•Scholarships for children who need them

•Expanded art outreach programming

What this means for the region

•More tourism and local spending

•Historic preservation

•Learning for all ages

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Artist Opportunities

 

What will the art center have for artists?

Harmer’s Town Art Center will have: a special exhibition gallery, a museum space highlighting HdG History through the collection of Allen Fair, a retail shop featuring local artists, 9 private artist studios for rent, a woodworking studio, a ceramic studio, a fused glass studio, a jewelry studio, a textile studio, a painting studio, a 3D Digital Printing Lab, and multifunction classrooms.

 

How can I use the facilities?

Shared workspaces and facilities will be available for members who are trained on procedures and safe use. A limited number of private studios will be available for rent and can also be shared by more than one artist.

 

How can I teach a class?

We are excited for artists in our community to share their talents! If you are interested in teaching a class or workshop please send your resume and cover letter to exec.dir@harmerstown.org.

 

How can I exhibit my work?

HTAC will host exhibitions of local and regional artists throughout the year in addition to offering retail space in our Art Shop. Calls for entry and curated opportunities will be shared through our website and mailing list.

 

 

Miscellaneous 

 

How will the public enjoy the new art center?

Visitors will enjoy rotating exhibitions, museum experiences, artist demonstrations, hands-on workshops, summer camps, family programs, public lectures, and cultural events.

Additionally, programs and events are already regularly held in the Graw Alley Interactive Mural Park. See our events calendar for more information: https://www.harmerstown.org/programs

 

Can I host my event at Harmer’s Town Art Center?

Venue rentals are temporarily paused as we finalize construction timelines, but rentals will be available again in the near future.