Design Committee


Calling All Future Preservationists!




We are offering an 8-week workshop called Engaging the Next Generation in Preservation: Love Where You Live Heritage Program for local young adults who have an interest in the story of their community. The ultimate goal is for young people to become active members of the community, which is key to helping Sykesville thrive.


Enrollment in the program is limited to 15 residents between the ages 16-25 who live within the municipal boundaries of Sykesville. 


Click here for the course outline, course requirements, explanation of the selection process,  and to fill out an application. 



Applications are due by May 5, 2024


Email: [email protected]


Art Enrichment Program for Adult

Project Details:
Participants are invited to select a reference image from our curated collection or to bring
personal photographs of historic sites or buildings to serve as inspiration for their artwork
during the class.

Class Content: The curriculum will encompass techniques in drawing, acrylic painting, and/or oil painting, offering a diverse exploration of mediums. Supplies provided.

Instructor: Vickie (VJ) Thurston

Event Date, time, and location: 
Six sessions of 2 hours,
Starting May 9, 2024
Thursdays:  6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Class size: 30 participants
Acts Faihaven, 7200 Third Avenue, Sykesville, MD

Registration link

Contact us at 4190-216-4543 or [email protected]

Sponsored by Downtown Sykesville Connection and the Carroll County Arts Council

Art Enrichment Program for High School Students

Project Details:

Theme: "Justice, Inclusion, and Equity"

Objective: Engage high school students in sketching classes that encourage reflection on justice, inclusion, and equity. Provide a platform for students to express their perspectives on these social issues through their artwork.


Instructor: Cindy Cisneros, LCPC & Art Mentor


Event Date, time, and location:

Six sessions of 1.5 hours, 

Starting May 6, 2024

Mondays: 5:30 pm to 7 pm

Class size: 4 to 20 students.

Acts Faihaven, 7200 Third Avenue, Sykesville, MD


Registration link


Contact us at 4190-216-4543 or [email protected]


Sponsored by Downtown Sykesville Connection and the Carroll County Arts Council

Art Enrichment Program for Middle School Students

Project Details:

Theme: a celebration of individual difference and togetherness.

Each class will consist of research, studying other artists, conceptualization, application, critique, and reflection. With the provided supplies, students will be guided to create a unique piece of art, ranging from a comic book character to a poster, flyer, or drawing to be printed for the artist to take home. Creative minds will be empowered to celebrate individual differences and unity.


Instructor: Wade Forbes


Event Date, time, and location:

Six sessions of 1.5 hours,  

Starting May 8, 2024

Wednesday: 6:30 pm to 8 pm

Class size: 6 students.

Acts Faihaven, 7200 Third Avenue, Sykesville, MD


Registration link


Contact us at 4190-216-4543 or [email protected]

Sponsored by Downtown Sykesville Connection and the Carroll County Arts Council
Beautification, Art, and Historic Preservation Projects

The mission of the DSC Design committee has been to shape the physical image and plan long-term physical improvements of the downtown Sykesville community while honoring and preserving its historic charm.


The DSC will continue bridging community partners through beautification projects that preserve and enhance the unique historical features of the Town.


The DSC will work toward innovative ways to include arts in economic development projects and community programs.

Previous Achievements

  • Creation of a marketing campaign for the Carroll County Quilt.
  • Production of an updated visitor guide and map.
  • Creation of a church wayfinding exhibit (grant permitting) – 6 signs.
  • Restaurant drawing sheets.
  • Produce banners to recognize veterans on Main Street.
  • Trademark the Coolest & Best Logo.
  • Create a children's mural downtown Sykesville with hidden Snallygasters.
  • Coordinate the sticker design contest and production of the sticker for the TerraCycle cigarette pole receptacleDesign and produce single postcards, booklets, and sets for the downtown business.
  • Design and produce downtown and business postcards.
  • Complete the historic story map with audio features and inauguration of the story map: https://arcg.is/SSbjv
  • Complete the Carroll County Quilt project.
  • Produce of a kid mural and plush animal.
  • Restore the Cityscape at the Little Sykes Railroad Park.
  • Design and produce the updated visitor guide.

Special thanks to the Carroll County Arts Council for its continued support.


Design Committee Chair: Dana Alonzi Design 
Committee Meetings: 2nd Tuesday of the month at 6 pm.
Contact us for the latest location information.

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