Historic Brampton 1860, an award-winning Select Registry inn in Chestertown, Maryland, is introducing a new series of immersive creative experiences for guests through a partnership with nationally recognized artist, author, TED speaker, and art educator Michael Bell.

Launching in August 2026, the exclusive collaboration offers guests the opportunity to deepen their getaway through art, reflection, and meaningful connection. The residency-inspired experiences are designed for individuals, couples, and small groups seeking authentic, hands-on activities that complement a relaxing stay on Maryland's Eastern Shore.

The new offerings reflect a growing traveler preference for experiences over amenities. According to a recent State of the American Traveler study, nearly 70 percent of respondents said the true luxury in travel is found in time, freedom, and authentic experiences rather than expensive amenities.

"We are fortunate that our corner of the Eastern Shore continues to attract the most engaging and talented visitors and individuals to our communities, and we were more than excited when we learned that renowned art educator and fine portraiture artist Michael Bell recently opened his Cannon Street Art Studio in the heart of historic Chestertown, just minutes from Brampton 1860," said Hilari Rinehart, co-owner of Historic Brampton 1860.

Bell recently opened Cannon Street Art Studio in Chestertown's Historic District and worked with Brampton owners Dave and Hilari Rinehart to develop three signature experiences that use art as a catalyst for creativity, conversation, and connection.

"We are always looking for engaging and authentic opportunities for our guests to reconnect with each other and their surroundings," Rinehart said. "And if that means unplugging from phones and technology—all the better."

Guests may choose from three immersive sessions:

Love Letters — A Romantic Visual Journaling Experience
Drawing the Line — A Personal Storytelling Experience
Saints & Sinners — A Collaborative Mixed-Media Experience

The workshops invite participants to explore personal stories, memories, and relationships through guided artistic expression. Each experience has been adapted from Bell's menu of workshops offered at his private studio located at 312 Cannon Street in historic Chestertown.

"I've always believed people may not remember every detail of an experience—but they remember how it made them feel," Bell said. "That's what makes this partnership so right. Brampton creates extraordinary guest experiences, and through the intimate, immersive experiences at my Cannon Street Art Studio, guests leave not only with the artwork they created, but with a deeper connection to one another, to the creative spirit of Chestertown, and memories they'll carry with them long after they return home."

The creative experiences will be available exclusively to Brampton 1860 guests beginning in August 2026 as part of select lodging packages.

For more information about the creative series and lodging packages, visit Brampton 1860's Packages page at bramptoninn.com.

About Historic Brampton 1860

Historic Brampton 1860 is an award-winning Select Registry inn located in Chestertown, Maryland. Known for its thoughtfully curated guest experiences, luxurious accommodations, and peaceful setting on Maryland's Eastern Shore, Brampton 1860 offers travelers a destination focused on relaxation, connection, and authentic hospitality.

About Michael Bell

Michael Bell is an artist, author, TED speaker, and National Art Educator of the Year known for leading immersive creative experiences rooted in storytelling and reflection. Based at his private Cannon Street Art Studio in historic Chestertown, his work is held in private collections connected to The Sopranos, Goodfellas, and A Bronx Tale. Explore more of Bell’s work at mbellart.com.