A Bit of Tea, Dear?

Teapots' intriguing forms and shapes have long piqued the curiosity and devotion of collectors around the world. A traditional icon of hearth and home, they become fantastical visions in the hands of fine craft artists and designers.

And this month you have a chance to see and own one-of-a-kind collectibles by dropping by VisArts at Rockville, in Rockville, Md., for a spot of tea.

VisArts is proud to sponsor a "Tea Party" and fundraiser featuring the spectacular works of more than 94 nationally recognized and highly collected artists whose aesthetics center on teapots. Some of the teapots created expressly for "Tea Party" are functional, while others are sculptural. All are beautiful.

The "Tea Party" will be held October 25, 2009, at VisArts' beautiful 28,000-square-foot art center in the heart of Rockville. From 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., you and other visitors can greet the artists, meet other collectors, and enjoy a High Tea featuring tasty treats in VisArts' inspired, airy, and art-filled spaces.

Mark your calendars now. If you're a collector, you won't want to miss VisArts' "Tea Party." You'll find dozens of unique pieces to add to your existing collections − from teapots, to tea bowls, to tea sets for gift-giving. If you're planning ahead for your annual holiday gatherings, you can be sure that perfect centerpiece you need will be waiting for you to tie up with a ribbon and take home.

"Tea Party" will benefit VisArts' Education and Outreach Programs, which have been serving the metropolitan D.C. area for more than 20 years.

For ticket information, telephone Callie Prassinos, 301-315-8200, ext. 105, or send an e-mail to events@visartscenter.org.

VisArts at Rockville is located at 155 Gibbs St., Ste. 300, Rockville, Md. 20850.

An Art of Tea blog for "Tea Party" is here.