Loudoun Arts operates a number of programs in support of the arts in Loudoun County. Many are offered at no charge for the benefit of the public, individual artists, and arts organizations throughout the county; others are open only to Loudoun Arts members and supporters, or are offered at reduced cost to members. We welcome your suggestions for new and enhanced programs. Please let us know how we can serve you better.

Loudoun Arts Directory

The Loudoun Arts Directory aims to be a comprehensive list of visual, literary, and performing artists, as well as arts non-profits, arts businesses, and arts supporters. All Loudoun artists and arts organizations are entitled to a free basic listing in the directory. The directory is a great resource for anyone looking for arts services in our area.

Happenings Events Calendar and Newsletter

Happenings is an online events calendar and monthly email newsletter distributed to thousands of local residents. Listing your events, classes, and opprtunities in Happenings is free and easy, with forms that help you create the listings.

COLLAB Creative Residencies

In the COLLAB atelier project, selected artists are offered three month long rent-free residencies in partnership with and located in various Loudoun County Public Libraries.

Loudoun Arts Film Festival

Launched in 2020 amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Loudoun Arts Film Festivalis a platform for independent filmmaking, creative expression, and immersive entertainment. Originally conceived as a multivenue Leesburg area event, the inaugural festival shifted to a hybrid model with a drive-in theater component and an online screening room.

Excellence in the Arts

Please join with Loudoun Arts in revitalizing our Excellence in the Arts program — an annual arts competition held for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors in Loudoun County public, private, and home schools.

Loudoun Arts Market

The Loudoun Arts Market helps artists and arts organizations make online and on-the-spot sales. The platform supports sales of physical products for immediate purchase and pick-up, or for shipping. It can also handle registration for classes, workshops, and other events, as well as general ticket sales.

ArtWorks Exhibits

Launched in 2015, the artWorks exhibits program works with local venues to create individually curated shows featuring works by Loudoun Arts member artists. Each venue agrees to promote the artWorks exhibits and host an artists’ reception for each show.

Master Classes

Loudoun Arts is dedicated to helping its members grow as artists and as businesses. We partner with local venues and instructors to sponsor Master Classes, creating opportunities for professional development.

ArtShare Grants

The artShare grants program was created to assist organizations of artistic merit to the Loudoun County community by providing funds to help maintain their stability and encourage their development. This annual grant opportunity is available to all Loudoun County non-profit arts organizations.

Art Display Rentals

Loudoun Arts has display equipment available for rent. We have panels sufficient for a 10 x 10 foot U-shaped display. The wire frame panels by Graphic Display Systems come in roughly 3 foot by 3 foot sections for easy transport. When assembled a panel is approximately 6 feet tall. Included in the booth kit are drapery hooks for hanging framed and wired artwork. The panels can be rented with or without a set of flame resistant charcoal grey panel covers in crêpe fabric.

Art Tour Incubator

Localities and artists’ groups who join Loudoun Arts have access to a planning system meant to help them create their own successful art tours. Based on the work of the co-operatively run Catoctin Holiday Art Tour, established by a small group of Lovettsville artists in 2011, the system includes a time line and task list to help groups manage the workload. The timeline can be adjusted to suit any event.

Loudoun County Barn Quilt Trail

The Loudoun County Barn Quilt Trail launched in the fall of 2018, and focuses on important agricultural sites in Loudoun County. Residents and visitors can learn about the history of these farm buildings and the activities they currently house. This trail brings attention to the fascinating geometric art created by the women living on Loudoun's farms, past and present.

First Fridays

Loudoun Arts is an orginal sponsor of Leesburg’s dynamic First Friday events. Stroll around historic downtown Leesburg on the first Friday of each month (except for January) and enjoy live music and other performances throughout the town, as well as art exhibits, wine tastings, lectures, yoga, book signings, and so much more! It’s fun and free! Find a complete schedule on the Leesburg’s First Friday website.

WLAST

Loudoun Arts helped launch the Western Loudoun Art & Studio Tour in 2005, and in 2015 we were honored to be the sole Grand Sponsor of the tenth anniversary of Loudoun’s signature arts event. The tour offers visitors a weekend of art, shopping, and relaxation. Visit the studios of dozens of talented artists as you wind through the scenic countryside and historic villages of western Loudoun County.