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A Bountiful Harvest
It's a good time to fill up on the arts! We've got the details on upcoming performances, concerts, classes, art tours, and more. Visit our Happenings! online events calendar and find something delicious!
We would also like to remind you to participate in the Loudoun County Comprehensive Arts Plan Survey — an opportunity to show County decision-makers your interest in the arts. The current survey will be open until Thanksgiving. Very importantly, we ask that you contact your representative on the Board of Supervisors to express support for their decision to sponsor this survey, and to consider bringing arts funding closer to parity with other components of the County's "recreation" budget.
Want to get the word out about your own events? Loudoun Arts members at the Sustaining level and above, submit yours now! |
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Turn the Page — Fall Arts Classes Await!
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The Time Is Now
We're probably preaching to the choir. Our subscribers know about the importance of the arts. YOU are artists, art lovers, and arts educators. You know firsthand how the arts improve the quality of life for everyone.
Now it's time to spread the word to the whole community, including our local officials: the time for better support for the arts in our schools and in our greater community is now. In fact, it's way past time. Loudoun County lags significantly behind neighboring jurisdictions in its support for arts programs — but maybe that is about to change.
On Thursday March 10th at 7pm, Loudoun Arts is offering a special online presentation by local teacher and arts advocate Tony Cimino-Johnson highlighting recently-collected data regarding the status of arts programs in Loudoun County's public schools. His work, coupled with that of some of his colleagues, helped add a proposal for $2.4 million in funding for the performing arts to the FY23 LCPS budget. That would double the total budget for schools' performing arts programs — a budget that has been stagnant for nearly 20 years. Join us online at 7 pm on March 10 for this FREE remote presentation about next steps for expanding support for the arts in Loudoun. Just click on the link below today.
Register By March 9th for "Watering Your Lawn - Performing Arts Equity in LCPS" |
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Two Loudoun Artists Left Their Mark
In December we lost two talented women who greatly influenced the arts in Loudoun. Kris Loya, 40, was known to many as a painter, instructor, and manager of the Tryst Gallery. Betty Wiley, 90, was a longtime Loudoun volunteer who started painting late in life and became one of the first artists to participate in the Western Loudoun Art and Studio Tour. Our world is a little better for their efforts at creating community, and they will be dearly missed. |
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Loudoun Arts Sponsors Second Annual Loudoun Arts Film Festival
LAFF is back for 2021! Launched in 2020 amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, Loudoun Arts Film Festival is 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 for in-person participation and an online screening room with global reach.
This year's festival will have weekend drive-in screenings at 50 West Vineyards September 10th through 19th, with live music, food trucks and a local art exhibit. During the week, LAFF will offer panel discussions and other events at Artistic Fuel in Leesburg. |
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Loudoun Arts Helps Launch The COVID-19 HOPE Quilt Project
During this historic moment, the COVID-19 pandemic poses an unprecedented national crisis. The COVID-19 Hope Quilt Project, a grassroots community art project, is launching in response to national sentiments of grief and uncertainty. |
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A Most Unusual Year
Much has changed since last November, when Loudoun Arts launched an ambitious self-renewal project. Despite the challenges of 2020, we are still committed to serving our community, and we invite you to help us expand our goals for the arts in Loudoun County. This year our Annual Meeting will be held online at 6:30pm on Thursday, November 5th. At the meeting we will discuss our regular business, our 2020 experiences and present plans for 2021. We encourage all to attend. |
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The Show Will Go On: the Loudoun Arts Film Festival Reimagined
Last winter, organizers originally planned the first Loudoun Arts Film Festival as a large public event. Film submissions started rolling in just before the world learned of a global pandemic. The planners quickly pivoted, and then pivoted again. Following the guidance of the CDC, and with the safety of the audience, creators, sponsors, and staff in mind, LAFF's organizers decided to think creatively. They purchased projection equipment, and moved to a multi-day combination drive-in-theater and online event, now scheduled for August 29th through September 19th at 50 West Vineyards in Middleburg.
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Tickets for the Online Festival and the Drive-In go on sale August 15th at www.loudounartsfilmfest.com
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LAFF is seeking volunteers to make this event work! All volunteers will receive one free ticket to the the Drive-In Theater at 50 West. VOLUNTEER HERE.
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A Virtual Art Tour: WLAST Goes Digital
In response to health and safety needs duing the COVID-19 pandemic, the WLAST Committee made the decision to transform the Western Loudoun Art & Studio Tour from a countryside driving tour into an online event.
Starting June 5th, the public can view the 53 participating artists and view a gallery of their artwork by visiting www.wlast.org. There you will also find links to video interviews with the artists, information about their processes, and links to artists' websites where you can purchase their work.
The online exhibit will remain open throughout 2020, and the Committee hopes to relaunch a physical tour in June 2021. |
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Loudoun Arts Launches Show for Graduating Seniors
The corona virus may have canceled classes —BUT— we want to show your work. Loudoun Arts will he highlighting artwork from graduating LCPS seniors in an ongoing, weekly, digital show.
Interested senior students send 3-5 images of your work with a brief artist statement, your graduating school, and intended college (if applicable).
Send this information to info@loudounarts.org with “LCPS Senior Show” in the subject line. |
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Arts Events in the Stay at Home Era
After Virginia Governor Ralph Northam issued a stay-at-home order for the Commonwealth until June 10, hundreds of arts events and classes were cancelled or postponed. But some moved to an online platform in an effort to keep serving the community. Audiences can help. Arts events present a welcome activity for kids home from school and adults working from home. |
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Loudoun Arts Announces... the Loudoun Arts Film Festival
Filmmakers from Loudoun, the United States and around the world are invited to submit their work to the 2020 Loudoun Arts Film Festival, a new event presented by Loudoun Arts. The event is scheduled to take place August 7th, 8th, and 9th in Leesburg. The three-day festival will screen local and international feature films, short films, documentaries and music videos. LAFF is now accepting submissions in several categories, with awards for the best entries.
Interested in participating?
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Loudoun Book and Arts Festival Returns for Second Year
Loudoun County Public Library, Brambleton Community Association, and Loudoun Arts will bring a day of author talks, visual art, and performance to Ashburn on Saturday July 11th from 1 pm to 6 pm. The Brambleton Library will be packed with activity for this rain or shine indoors event. Stay tuned for details about participating authors and artists! |
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Be a Part of Exciting New COLLAB Projects
Rust Library's first COLLAB Artist-in-Residence, Quentin Walston, is composing a new musical piece, entitled "Loudoun Pastorale." Walston is collaborating with local painters on his new project. Images of paintings of the Loudoun countryside will be part of the ensemble performance of the finished piece (to be performed at Rust Library at noon on the first day of Spring, Saturday, March 21).
Photographer Frank Stopa will be the Artist-in-Residence at Brambleton Library from January through March. As part of his project "Portait of a Community," Stopa needs volunteers willing to have their portrait taken. His finished project will be an original collage of photos, creating a unique vision of Loudoun County to be shown by the Loudoun Arts Council and Brambleton Library. Visit the Brambleton Library makerspace to make an appointment with Frank, or sign up to participate here. |
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COLLAB Residency Program Expands to Sterling Library
Loudoun's artists are encouraged to apply to the COLLAB Residency Program. Sterling Library is the newest COLLAB residency program, joining existing residencies at Brambleton Library in Ashburn and Rust Library in Leesburg. Residencies are awarded based on the quality of the artists' proposals, and is not limited to visual artists. Performers, writers, musicians, and makers of all types are also encouraged to apply. Cross-media collaborations are welcome.
Loudoun County Public Libraries partners with the Loudoun Arts Council to offer qualifying LAC members three-month residencies in the branch of their choice, with access to Makerspace equipment in all three locations. Interested in this creative opportunity? Apply Here. |
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COLLAB Artists Present New Musical Performances
COLLAB Artist-in-Residence Dr. Mariana Mihai-Zoeter will direct her after school choral group, created as part of her Residency program, at 2 pm on December 7 at Brambleton Library. Dr. Mihai-Zoeter's group will present an exciting singing and dance performance that highlights the music styles of the Baroque, Classical and Romantic eras along with contemporary music.
Rust Library's first Artist-in-Residence, Quentin Walston, is looking for visual Artists to collaborate on his new project, a musical composition entitled "Loudoun Pastorale." Walston is plans to project images of paintings of the Loudoun Countryside during the ensemble performance of the finished piece at Rust Library at noon on the first day of Spring, Saturday, March 21. Visual artists interested in participating this unique project can email info@loudounarts.org for more information. |
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All Arts Council Members Invited to Annual Meeting
Loudoun Arts Council Members are invited to join the Board for our Annual Meeting, held in the Teen Room at Brambleton Library in Ashburn on Thursday, November 7, from 6pm to 7pm.
We will enjoy refreshments, observe the COLLAB program singers in rehearsal, tour the Makerspace, and nominate and vote on new board members. After the general meeting, the new board will elect its officers. We are looking for volunteers ready to help with our exciting new projects for 2020. Interested? Join the Board, form a committee, or just offer your thoughts. We want to hear from YOU. |
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Got a Great Idea?
Do you have an idea, vision or work in progress that would bring attention to the value of the arts in Loudoun County? The Loudoun Arts Council is pleased to announce a new artShare Grant Program, open to all LAC members - individuals, groups and organizations - with a simplified application form and award criteria that emphasize innovation and/or creative collaborations to enrich our community through the arts. |
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Reinventing the Wheel
The Loudoun Arts Council is at an turning point in its existence. It is time to reframe and revitalize our approach to supporting the arts and all the artists in Loudoun. We are presented with an opportunity to shape the future of the arts in Loudoun County, and we invite you to join us in this effort. |
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Libby Stevens Brings the "Brilliant Earth" to Zephaniah Farm Vineyards
Libby Stevens has honed her craft over the last three decades. A self-taught artist, Libby is best known for her luminous depictions of the scenery of Loudoun County, but her still life compositions are equally arresting. "Brilliant Earth" includes a selection of pastel and oil paintings, and will be on display at Zephania Farm Vineyard through February 2020. |
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COLLAB Artist Residency Program Kicks Off at Brambleton Library
The inaugural COLLAB EAST Artist-in-Residence program launches this month with artist Steven McCarthy at Brambleton Library's Makerspace in Ashburn.
McCarthy is influenced by the graphic nature of comics, as well as by artists Henri Matisse, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Shepard Fairey.& "My current works explore imagery ranging from pop-cultural iconography to natural representation. Color and shape actuate these stylized images while subtle patterns softly emerge," says McCarthy. |
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Public is Invited to the Loudoun Artisans Showcase
Potters, sculptors, jewelers, and artisans of all kinds are part of a rare exhibit for three-dimensional work. The first Loudoun Artisans' Showcase, is a curated exhibit held in the central Mercer Room at the historic library from September 3rd through September 30th, 2019. The Public is invited to an Artists Reception on Sunday September 8 from 2 pm to 4 pm. |
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"Nature Seen" at Visit Loudoun - New artWorks Exhibit by Lori Simmerman Goll
Artist Lori Simmerman Goll's new artWorks exhibit is on display now through September 18th at the Visit Loudoun Visitor Center.
"I have always loved to draw and paint. After attaining an Electrical Engineering degree from Virginia Tech and working a few years in telecommunications I realized that my true love is and has always been art," she says.
Meet the artist at a special artist's reception on August 2nd, during Leesburg's First Friday. |
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Use Brambleton Views as Your Muse at the LBAF Plein Air Paint Out
Artists are invited to draw inspiration from the views at Brambleton Town Center to compete in the juried Plein Air Paint Out on Saturday, June 8th at the Loudoun Book and Arts Festival. Participants can set up their supplies and easels at the Town Center Circle and create works of art from viewpoints of their choosing: the manicured greenery, the Town Center cityscape or an encapsulated moment among festival-goers.
Check-in for the outdoor painting competition begins at 10:30am at the Town Center Circle. (Weather contingency location for the competition will be the Brambleton Library.) Painting will conclude at 1pm and artwork will be lined up on easels for exhibition and judging from 1p-3p.
To register interest, complete this online application. |
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Buttermilk and Graffiti to Make the Perfect Pairing at Inaugural Loudoun Book & Arts Festival
Local modern artist Harry Metellus will add flavor to an already zesty program at Ahso Restaurant on Saturday, June 8th during the inaugural Loudoun Book & Arts Festival, a joint venture of Loudoun County Public Library, the Loudoun Arts Council and the Brambleton Town Center.
Metellus will showcase three of his large-scale graffiti art pieces at Ahso, where author and James Beard Award-nominated chef Edward Lee will be interviewed about his book, Buttermilk Graffiti. |
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Juried Plein Air Paint Out at Loudoun Book & Arts Festival
Brambleton Town Center plaza will be filled with local artwork. A plein air competition will be held outside the Brambleton Library from 10:30am to 1pm, Saturday, June 8, 2019. |
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Lovettsville Shows its LOVE for Public Art
The Town of Lovettsville invites you to submit a proposal for the design and fabrication of a LOVEwork to be constructed in the town square. Lovettsville’s LOVE sign will be added to a collection of more than 100 large-scale LOVEworks that are installed in towns and cities across the Commonwealth.
• Deadline for submissions is July 15, 2019 at 5:00pm
• Submit design proposals here
• Questions? Ask clerk@lovettsvilleva.gov
• For complete RFP and more information, please visit the Town of Lovettsville website |
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Scores of Loudoun Artists Show their Work June 1 & 2
On June 1 and 2, the public is invited to visit 38 studios in western Loudoun for the 14th Annual Western Loudoun Artists Studio Tour.
Printable Tour Map |
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Community Groups Launch New Book & Arts Festival
The Loudoun Arts Council, Loudoun County Public Libraries, and the Brambleton Community Association will present the first Loudoun Book & Arts Festival on Saturday, June 8th from 10:30am to 5pm.The inaugural festival is a free, daylong event in and around Brambleton Library, featuring talks with bestselling and up-and-coming authors, interactive displays with local artists, live music and a book sale courtesy of Second Chapter Books. The Loudoun Arts Council will debut their 2019 Coloring Book, We ❤️ Art, featuring the work of 15 Loudoun artists, at the Festival.
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Call for Original Designs for “We ❤️ Art”
The Loudoun Arts Council invites artists to submit designs for inclusion in “We ❤️ Art” — a new coloring book about the arts. This LAC publication will debut at the new Book and Arts Festival in Brambleton on June 8th, 2019. |
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March 2021 Spotlight: Penny Hauffe
Penny Hauffe is a Loudoun artist who works in painting, sculpture, and on the stage. |
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Artist Patricia Taylor Holz Paints Delicious Wine Series in New artWorks Exhibit
Painter Patricia Taylor Holz celebrates rich vineyard soils and wine vessels in artWorks newest exhibit, Vino: An Ode to Wine Types, Soils & Glassware Through Time. The wine series is on display now through the end of April at Zephaniah Farm Vineyard at 19381 Dunlop Mill Road, Leesburg, VA 20175. The vineyard and tasting room are open noon to 5:30pm every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (and Federal Holiday Mondays).
Meet the artist and take in the wine series at a special reception on Sunday, February 24th at 1pm. |
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Join Us for Arts Trivia Night!
Join us for a fun winter Arts Mixer: Arts Trivia Night, 7-9 pm on Monday, February 25th at Ocelot Brewing Company, 23600 Overland Drive, #180, Dulles, VA 20166.
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February 15 Deadline Approaches: The 2019 Gale Waldron Excellence in the Arts Awards
Students in grades 10 through 12 are invited to participate in this year’s program. Emerging artists in dance, theatre, vocal and instrumental music, and the literary arts, as well as visual artists working in 2D or 3D, may submit their work for evaluation. |
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Our February 2019 Spotlight is on: Painter Kay Layne
According to painter Kay Layne, "Abstract painting has always drawn me because I make paintings that are intended to elicit emotion depending on the makeup of the viewer. My work can be soothing, challenging, or upsetting. I don’t paint realism, because I prefer that the viewer respond without my directing them through realistic images." |
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New Residency Opportunities for 2019
Loudoun County Public Library is working with the LAC to offer a COLLAB Artist's Residency in the Makerspace at Brambleton Library in Ashburn. The COLLAB program is for artists and makers of all kinds. Artists can use the space as working studio and exhibit area, and will have the opportunity to engage with the public in a unique way.
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Winter Arts Mixer: Italian Renaissance Art
For our Winter Arts Mixer, Dr. Lisa Passaglia Bauman, Associate Professor of Art History at George Mason University, will take you on a virtual trip through Florence, Venice, and Rome, and reveal how local customs and politics affected some of the greatest masterpieces in history. This program is open to all, 6:30pm Thursday, January 10th at Brambleton Library, 22850 Brambleton Plaza, Brambleton, Virginia. Refreshments provided by the Loudoun Arts Council. |
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The LAC's January 2019 Spotlight is on: Samantha S. Marshall
Loudoun County is home to hundreds of talented artists, and we want everyone to know it! The Loudoun Arts Council will be featuring some of these amazing LAC members on our website and in our monthly newsletter starting in 2019. Our first featured artist is photographer Samantha S. Marshall. |
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CarolLyn Simpson's Man-Cave Paintings at Old Ox Brewery
CarolLyn Simpson's "Man-Cave" paintings are influenced by Paleolithic Cave Art. Her work will be exhibited through March at Old Ox Brewery, 44652 Guilford Drive, Unit 114, in Ashburn, Virginia. Join us for a reception and meet the artist 7 pm to 9 pm on Friday, February 22. |
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Two of our Favorite Things: Beer and Art at Old Ox
Two hallmarks of advanced civilization brought together for one night! Saturday, January 5 at 6:30pm at Old Ox Brewery, 44652 Guilford Drive, Unit 114, Ashburn, Virginia. |
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LAC artShare 2018 Grant Winner Announced
We congratulate Loudoun Symphony Orchestra, recipient of a $2,000 artShare grant for 2018! This organization demonstrated strong management, high artistic quality, and willingness to think creatively about contributing to Loudoun County. |
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LAC Launches Fundraiser for Excellence 2019
Our #GivingTuesday campaign to fund the 2019 Gale Waldron Excellence in the Arts youth program starts on Tuesday, November 27th. Facebook and PayPal will match donations Tuesday dollar-for-dollar, so please give generously. We invite you to donate now. Thank you! |
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ArtShare at 20: Keeping Loudoun's Arts Groups Going Strong
Twenty years ago this month, the Loudoun Arts Council launched a local grants program, called artShare, to help support Loudoun's home-grown arts organizations. Since that time the local grants fund has financed terrific community partners like VSA of Loudoun County, the Loudoun Symphony, Loudoun Ballet, and many others.
Originally set up as an endowment, the source of funding for this program has steadily declined in recent years. Now a local friend of the arts council has stepped up to offer a matching grant of $1,000. For every dollar you donate, this generous friend will donate another dollar, up to $1,000 in total. The LAC needs your help to keep this program strong. Make a tax-deductible donation today! |
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Painter Norma Lasher Reflects on a Life of Travel in New artWorks Exhibit, "Tourist By Nature"
Painter Norma Lasher and her husband, whom she affectionately refers to as Lash, have traveled the world since the 1960s. Lasher’s tours of Asia and Europe have provided much inspiration for her art. “My subject matter for landscapes is usually a place I have been, and I want to remember. If others are entertained or their memories are evoked, I am doubly blessed,” says Lasher. |
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Marni Manning Brings "Americana Culture" to Old Ox
American folktales live inside us, instilled in us as children. In Marni Manning's new artWorks exhibit at Old Ox Brewery, she brings these historical stories to new life. Born in North Carolina, Manning lived abroad in Asia for several years, which gave her a new appreciation for cultural differences. Manning's sister and writer A.C. O'Dell lent her creative talents to penning poetry complementing each artwork in this show. Americana Culture will be on display through December. |
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Bring Your Bright Ideas to Our Annual Gathering!
If you have ideas about new programs or projects, we'd love to hear from you! Loudoun Arts Council members, prospective members, and the public are invited to the 2018 Annual LAC Members’ Meeting at Leesburg Junction at 6:00pm on Tuesday, October 16th. Members are invited to enjoy a brief meet-and-greet with refreshments before the Annual President's Report and the membership will elect new Board members. |
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Rural Economic Development Council Seeks Input from Arts Business Owners
Do you own an arts business in rural Loudoun? The Rural Economic Development Council (REDC) wants to hear from you.
Take the Survey |
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New Arts Mixer at StageCoach Theatre Company
Artists can be masters at expressing themselves... until it comes to making an artist’s statement or talking in public about their work. The folks at StageCoach have you covered! In Making a Statement: Improv for Artists, you’ll learn stage techniques to feel more comfortable speaking when eyes are on you. |
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2018 artShare Grant Applications Due by October 31st
The Loudoun Arts Council’s artShare grants were 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 year the Arts Council is looking for new initiatives to bring the arts to Loudouners in more creative ways. Instead of submitting an update past grant applications, a common practice for non-profits, “This year, we want to challenge our local arts organizations to think creatively about ways to use our grants,” says artShare administrator Mary Kenesson. |
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Painter Angela Giraldi Reveals Her "World View" — A New artWorks Exhibit at Visit Loudoun
British-born watercolor painter Angela Giraldi takes inspiration from her extensive travels in the states and abroad to create her World View, artWorks newest exhibit at Visit Loudoun. From local tree groves in Loudoun County to fishing villages in Barcelona, Giraldi brings a lightness and optimism to the random moments of everyday life. Meet the artist at a special reception on Friday, August 3rd at 6pm. |
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Barn Quilt Trail Focuses on History, Culture, and Agriculture
The Loudoun County Barn Quilt Trail will open in the fall of 2018 and focus on important agricultural structures and locations in Loudoun County. Residents and visitors can learn about the importance of these farm buildings, their history, and the activities they currently house. These buildings tell important stories about our history and our future. The Barn Quilt Committee is seeking new participants and sponsors for this new program in rural Loudoun. |
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LAC Seeks Applicants for COLLAB Residency Program
Are you looking for a venue for your creative ideas? In the COLLAB atelier project, Embark Center and IndED join the Loudoun Arts Council to offer qualifying LAC members quarterly residencies in a studio space in Leesburg's Arts and Culture District. Visiting artists can use the space as a working studio and exhibit area and have the opportunity to engage with the public in a unique way in the heart of downtown Leesburg. In lieu of rent, IndED and Embark students will have occasional access to their process. |
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LAC Offers Gallery Fixtures for Sale
The arts council is offering a variety of gallery/store fixtures, including display shelving, art pedestals, a glass jewelry case, utility shelving, folding tables, track lighting, decorative console tables, a printer/copier, and much more. |
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"Reflection" by Jill Evans-Kavaldjian — A New Exhibit at a Brand New artWorks Venue
Bonnie Archer had to do a little sleuthing, but she persevered and found Jill Evans-Kavaldjian's work on her Facebook page, and sent her a message. Would she be interested in exhibiting her work? Evans-Kavaldjian, an artist who works in several media (and is currently President of the LAC) was delighted. The resulting exhibit will be on display from June 14th through the end of August, and the public is invited to meet the artist at a special reception on Sunday, June 24th from 3pm to 5pm at the newest artWorks venue, Zephaniah Farm Vineyard, south of Leesburg. |
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Old Ox Brewery Displays New artWorks Exhibit, "With abandon"
Photographer Samantha S. Marshall captures the beauty in abandoned spaces in a new artWorks exhibit, "With abandon." Marshall highlights deserted hallways, hidden caverns and uninhabited rooms through vibrant color and natural light. Marshall's haunting images are on display at Old Ox Brewery through the end of August. Meet the artist at a special reception on Friday, June 15th at 7pm. |
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New artWorks Exhibit is a “Paradise Found” at StageCoach Theatre
Painter Charlotte B. DeMolay dives into deep sea blues and vivid pinks in her show “Paradise Found,” artWorks newest exhibit at StageCoach Theatre. Sightsee DeMolay’s coastal paradise at StageCoach Theatre through the end of July. Meet the artist at a special reception on Friday, June 8th at 5:30pm. |
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Loudoun Arts Council Congratulates 2018 Winners of the Gale Waldron Excellence in the Arts Awards
After a ten-year hiatus, the Loudoun Arts Council has revived its Excellence in the Arts awards program for teens in the visual, literary, and performing arts. Students in grades 10 to 12 competed in this year’s program, and 15 students received awards totalling $5,750. Their accomplishments will be honored at a special free reception and showcase at StageCoach Theatre in Ashburn on May 5th. |
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Old Ox Brewery Displays "Curiosities," a new artWorks Exhibit
Explore a world of curious creatures, enchanted faces and mystical landscapes created by painter Nancy Kfoury, the newest artWorks artist on display at Old Ox Brewery. Discover Kfoury’s beautifully eccentric exhibition at Old Ox Brewery at 44652 Guilford Drive, Unit 114, Ashburn, VA 20147 through the end of May. Meet the artist at a special reception on Friday, April 27th at 7pm. |
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"Suspend," A new artWorks Exhibit at Visit Loudoun
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Farm to Fashion Travels to the Torpedo Factory
Seven pieces from Loudoun's Farm to Fashion Creative Challenge Exhibit were selected by the Torpedo Factory Art Center to be part of a traveling exhibit this winter in their 2nd floor gallery in Old Town Alexandria, VA. The "agricouture" show, a joint effort by the LAC, Franklin Park Arts Center, and Loudoun County Economic Development, will be exhibited 10 to 6pm February through March, with a special reception held on Friday, February 23 from 7 to 9pm. |
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Loudoun Arts Council Honors Past President Gale Waldron
The Loudoun Arts Council will honor long-time arts supporter and former board member Gale Waldron by re-naming its Excellence in the Arts program in her name. Waldron passed away on January 8th. |
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Loudoun Arts Council Revives Excellence in the Arts Youth Program
The Loudoun Arts Council announces the return of the Excellence in the Arts awards program for 2018. Loudoun high school students (including homeschool students) may compete for cash prizes in eight arts categories: visual arts, digital arts, dance, piano, literary, instrumental, voice, and theatre. More information, guidelines, and application materials are available online now. Completed applications with payment must be submitted by March 5, 2018. To learn more or donate to the Excellence in the Arts awards program, email info@loudounarts.org. |
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LAC artShare Grant Winners Announced for 2017
We congratulate four outstanding Loudoun arts organizations as the 2017 recipients of the Loudoun Arts Council’s artShare grant program. These grants are awarded to local arts organization demonstrating strength in management, important contributions to the community, and high artistic quality. |
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Arts in the Village Gallery to Close Its Doors December 31st
After more than five years in its current location, Arts in the Village Gallery will close its doors on December 31, 2017. A program of the non-profit Loudoun Arts Council, the coöperative gallery has brought the work of Loudoun's visual artists to thousands art enthusiasts who supported this effort. The LAC is looking for a new opportunities for Loudoun artists in 2018. Stay tuned to this website, or subscribe to our newsletter to learn more about AitV artists, and future LAC programs. |
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Old Man Winter Brings Two New artWorks Exhibits
The winter artWorks exhibits at Old Ox Brewery and the Visit Loudoun Visitors' Center couldn't look more different. Painter Laura Hopkins' work in "Earth & Sky" focuses on expressing the mood and enduring beauty of quiet rural scenes in the atmospheric, soft light of twilight and dawn. Ben Wood's lively graphic canvases in the "This Is Personal" show at Old Ox Brewery works combine expressive brushwork and intentionally simplified forms with cartoon elements. Both artists' work can be seen through February in our new winter artWorks shows. |
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Dramatic Opening for New artWorks Venue
Performing groups know that theater space in Loudoun County is limited, forcing many groups to hunt for venues where they can perform their works. For StageCoach Theatre, that struggle is over. The company has found a home in the village of Ashburn, complete with a "black box " theater and classrooms for their programs for kids and adults.
Painter Marcia Klioze has included many of her dynamic portraits in a new show, entitled "Faces & Places," on exhibit from November through January at the Ashburn Theatre. StageCoach will host a special Meet the Artist reception right before their holiday production of "Naughty or Nice" on Friday, December 8 at 6pm (the reception is open to the public). |
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Leesburg Town Council Candidates Weigh In on the Arts
At the Loudoun Arts Council we're committed to promoting the arts as a vital part of our community. The arts strengthen our economies and our ties to each other.
As Election Day draws near, we asked candidates in state and local races for their thoughts about the importance of the arts. Leesburg Town Council Candidates Josh Thiel and Vanessa Maddox responded. |
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Arts Mixer at North Gate Vineyard
Join the Loudoun Arts Council at NorthGate Vineyards for the first in a series of Arts Mixers!
Meet other artists, art lovers, and members of arts organizations. Collaborate and talk about hopes, plans, and dreams for the arts in Loudoun County. What do you want to see happen? A performing arts venue? More exhibit opportunities?
Enjoy award-winning North Gate wines (cash bar) and yummy snacks (on us!) at this special event from 5 to 7pm on Friday, November 10th. RSVP by November 8th by registering for your FREE ticket here! |
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Thirty Years of Vision Reception
Everyone is invited to Arts in the Village Gallery on Saturday, October 14th from 4:30pm to 7pm for a special Artists’ Reception including live jazz by Maddy Curtis and Caleb Nei. Loudoun artists in all media are part of the 30 Years of Vision Anniversary Exhibit in Arts in the Village Gallery in Leesburg. The show includes sculpture and ceramics as well as paintings, prints, photographs and works in other media by the county's most talented creators. Refreshments will be available and the artists’ awards will be announced during the event. |
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Farm to Fashion Draws Public and Media Attention
Thirteen local artists presented stunning "agricouture" art garments made from materials provided by local farms and agricultural businesses in the Farm to Fashion Creative Challenge Exhibit, at Franklin Park Arts Center, culminating in a fabulous F2F Farmstyle Reception and Awards Event on Saturday, October 28th. More than 150 people attended the event, which was covered by Virginia Living magazine, Loudoun Now, and NBC4 Washington. The exhibit met its goal of highlighting Loudoun's strong arts and agricultural communities. |
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LAC Announces New Member Benefits
The Loudoun Arts Council was created in 1987 to support the work of local artists and arts organizations. As times have changed, the Loudoun Arts Council’s member services have changed. We’re pleased to announce expanded membership programs for art-makers and arts sponsors, with new levels of participation and — wait for it — reduced fees. |
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Two New Fall artWorks Exhibits Bring Splashes of Color to Loudoun
Two new artWorks exhibits will bring a vivid splash of color to Loudoun County this fall. Turner Hilliker will show his works at Old Ox Brewery in Ashburn, while Alynne Landers will exhibit at the Visit Loudoun Visitors' Center in Market Station. Both shows will be open to the public September through November.
The public is invited to meet the artists at special receptions. Landers will be on hand on October 6 for a special First Friday event at the Vistors' Center, including wine tastings from Winery 32. Join Hilliker for a beverage on November 3rd at the Old Ox Tasting Room to learn more about the artist's motivations and process.
Interested in being a participating artWorks artist or venue? Learn more here. |
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Loudoun Arts Council Announces 2017 Annual Meeting
Loudoun Arts Council members, prospective members, and the public are invited to the 2017 Annual Members’ Meeting of the Loudoun Arts Council, to be held at Sterling Library at 6:30pm on Tuesday, October 3rd. Celebrate our 30th year in Loudoun County with refreshments and a special sneak peek at Journeys to Sterling — a special tile installation at the library created by renowned local artist Joan Gardiner. We'll also discuss the changing role the LAC can play in supporting and promoting the arts. We want to hear your ideas! |
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2017 artShare Grant Deadlines Announced
The Loudoun Arts Council’s artShare grants were 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. |
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Call For Art: 30 Years of Vision Exhibit
Artists living or working in Loudoun county are invited to submit artwork for the Loudoun Arts Council and Arts in the Village Gallery’s show: 30 Years of Vision: Celebrating the Arts in Loudoun County on display October 1st through 31st at Arts in the Village Gallery. This exhibit celebrates the 30 years of LAC support for the arts in Loudoun, and AitV's five years as Leesburg's only cooperative art gallery. A special Anniversary Reception will be held on Saturday, October 14th, from 4:30 to 7:00 pm with live jazz by Maddy Vencil and Caleb Nei and refreshments. Cash awards will be awarded at this time. |
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Loudoun Arts Council Seeks Exhibits Coordinator
Are you an experienced creating and hanging 2-D exhibits? The LAC is looking for a paid coordinator to assist the Board with the arts council's artWorks exhibit program. |
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Summer Brings New artWorks Exhibits at Old Ox Brewery and Visit Loudoun
The LAC's artWorks program will feature the work of two accomplished Loudoun artists this summer. Christine Dixon will bring her colorful still life paintings to the Visit Loudoun Vistors' Center in Leesburg, while photographer Samantha Marshall's arresting digital images will adorn the walls of the Old Ox Brewery Tasting Room. Meet Samantha at a special Artist's Reception on Friday June 16 at 7 pm. |
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"LAC Mixers" Program: What Would YOU Like to See?
We're working on organizing regular meetups — happy hours, mixers, social hours, coffee dates, and more — where LAC members can meet and learn about each others' programs and events. Take this survey to let us know what would work best for you! |
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Heat and Light: A New Show at a New artWorks Venue
Four local artists are part of Heat and Light, a new summer exhibit at the Clarion Inn in Leesburg. Join the artists for a special reception on Friday June 2 at 7 pm. |
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Help Name the Loudoun Artisan Trail!
Calling all who live and work in Loudoun County and who have an interest in our artisans, agri-artisans, cultural and hospitality businesses!
Join us at Stone Tower Winery on Tuesday March 28 at 6 pm for a fun evening with appetizers, Loudoun wines, beers and live music. Musician Ted Garber and Artisan Center of Virginia's Sherri Smith will lead the "Name Game." |
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Loudoun Arts Council Seeks Part-time Bookkeeper
The Loudoun Arts Council is seeking a paid bookkeeper to work approximately 24 hours per month on a contract basis. |
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Funding Effort Launched for Mural at Sterling Library
Award-winning "storyteller through ceramics" Joan Gardiner has been commissioned to create "Journeys to Sterling," a 10' x 10' art-tile project at the new Sterling Library. The project will represent the community through tiles inspired by photos of actual residents, and through colorful depictions of the travels many have made to arrive in the Sterling area. The Loudoun Arts Council is pleased to help sponsor a campaign to help finance the installation. |
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Two New artWorks Exhibits Arrive Just in Time for Spring
The Loudoun Arts Council presents two new artWorks exhibits: “Bloom” by Artist Lisa Cohen at the Visit Loudoun Visitors' Center, and “Olden Times” by Fine Art Photographer Dora Ramirez at Old Ox Brewery. Join Dora at the Brewery on April 7 at 7 pm for a special Artist's Reception. Learn more about her insiprations and process... and taste some of Old Ox's new works of art — and current LAC members get discounts on their beer! |
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Help Launch a New Makerspace in Purcellville!
Makersmiths, Loudoun County's maker organization, is working with the Town of Purcellville to convert an old town garage into a community makerspace. To fund the new effort, a new Kickstarter campaign has been created. |
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LAC Expands Its artWorks Exhibit Program
The Loudoun Arts Council is seeking applicants for the expansion of its artWorks exhibit program. The artWorks program brings local artists and businesses together through quarterly art shows in vibrant gathering places throughout the County. |
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Loudoun County Creates Artisan Trail to Engage Visitors
Loudoun County will soon be home to Virginia’s newest artisan trail thanks to a partnership between the Artisans Center of Virginia, members of the arts community, Visit Loudoun, and the Loudoun and Leesburg departments of economic development. |
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"Making Connections: Paintings by Jim Sisley" Opens at Old Ox Brewery
Jim Sisley's paintings focus on simple daily experiences that we all "see" but seldom stop to deeply consider. His work is included in a one-person exhibit, Making Conections: Paintings by Jim Sisley at Old Ox Brewery in Ashburn, VA through February 2017. |
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Congratulations to the 2016 artShare Grant Awardees
Congratulations to the three outstanding Loudoun arts organizations named the 2016 recipients of the Loudoun Arts Council’s artShare grants program. The awardees for the 2016-2017 Loudoun Arts Council artShare grants program are:
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Endless Fascination: Watercolors by Alice Power
Loudoun arts icon Alice Power brings her keen eye and love of life to her watercolors, on display through February at the Visit Loudoun Visitors' Center in Market Station in Leesburg. |
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Highlights from the LAC's 2016 General Membership Meeting
The LAC's 2016 General Membership Meeting on October 27th was quite a success! Loudoun Arts Council members in attendance learned about the progress of our programs and elected new Board members to replace outgoing Board Secretary Karen Watson and at-large member Susan Trask. |
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Wine Country Harvest Ball and Art Sale Scheduled for November 19th at Salamander Resort
For the second year in a row, the Loudoun Arts Council and PHILLIPS will present the Wine Country Harvest Ball and Art Sale at Salamander Resort. This black tie gala — set for 7-11 pm on November 19th — features a sumptous meal, live music, and a sale of fine art and craft by Loudoun and Fauquier artists and artisans. |
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Annual Meeting Set for October 27th
As we begin our 30th year in Loudoun County, it’s time to meet together to discuss the changing role the LAC can play in supporting and promoting the arts. We want to hear your ideas! We'll meet at Arts in the Village Gallery at 7 pm. |
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Loudoun Arts Council Seeks Grant Writer
The Loudoun Arts Council is looking for a person with experience writing grant applications to help fund an expansion in the LAC's programming supporting the arts in Loudoun County. |
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Loudoun Arts Council Announces 2016 artShare Grants Program
The Loudoun Arts Council’s artShare grants were 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. |
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Wine Country Harvest Ball & Art Sale — Call for Art!
The Loudoun Arts Council and the PHILLIPS Programs for Children and Families are hosting a special fundraising exhibit at Salamander Resort in Middleburg, Virginia, from October 15th through November 19th, the date of PHILLIPS’ second annual Wine Country Harvest Ball & Art Sale. |
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"METAL" An Exhibit of Brian Kirk's Rust Prints Opens June 8 at Old Ox Brewery
Loudoun sculptor and teacher Brian Kirk has taken his metal work in a new direction, using time, water and oxygen to tell a different set of stories through fascinating rust prints. The exhibit will be on display June 8 through the end of August, with an Artist's Reception at the brewery on July 1 at 7pm. |
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The Artists of WLAST: New Exhibit Opens at Visit Loudoun Visitors' Center
Two-dimensional works by some of the artists participating in the Western Loudoun Artists' Studio Tour will be featured at the Loudoun Visitors' Center through the end of June. Featured artists will be on hand during two special First Friday Receptions in May and June. The public can meet the artists and view their works from 6 pm to 8 pm on May 6th and June 3rd. Wine and refreshments will also be available. |
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Creatures of Imagination Invade Old Ox Brewery!
Artist Steve Loya's Splotch Monster paintings began as an experiment and a daily creative exercise and became so much more. Creatures of Imagination is the latest exhibit sponsored by the Loudoun Arts Council's artWorks program. |
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New artWorks Exhibit Opens at Visitors' Center in Leesburg
Works by artists from the Arts in the Village Gallery will be featured at the Loudoun Visitors' Center through the end of March. The Visitors' Center, located in Market Station in Leesburg, is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and will host a special reception featuring AITV artists as part of Leesburg's First Friday event from 6 pm to 8 pm on March 4. Wine tastings will be offered, and the public can chat with the artists in attendance. |
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Interior Landscapes: An Exhibit of Mixed Media Work by Octavia Frazier
Sterling artist Octavia Frazier's bold abstract compositions are directly connected to her years of work as an interior designer; her bold use of color and the different textures used are a delight for the eyes. |
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Loudoun Lyric Opera, VSA of Loudoun County Awarded artShare Grants for 2015-2016
The Loudoun Arts Council congratulates two outstanding Loudoun arts organizations, Loudoun Lyric Opera and VSA of Loudoun County, as the 2015-2016 recipients of the council’s artShare grants program. |
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The Loudoun Arts Council Wants Your Input!
Do you live in Loudoun County? Do you have opinions? Excellent! Click here to take our short, ten question survey about the importance of the arts in our community. |
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Local Candidates Respond to LAC Questionnaire
Loudoun Board of Supervisors candidates weigh in on the importance of the arts in Loudoun County. |
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The Loudoun Arts Council's 2015 Business Meeting
LAC members met on on October 28th at Franklin Park Arts Center to learn about the LAC's recent work and plans for the future. Read the president's remarks after the jump. |
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Arts On Tap
Loudoun arts groups, individual artists of all kinds, and the general public are invited to learn more about our county’s vibrant arts community at the Arts On Tap mixer at Old Ox Brewery on October 12th. Loudoun Arts Council members can pick up their new membership cards at the event. The cards have special benefits, including a discount on purchases at Old Ox, a generous LAC sponsor and the first LAC Member Card partner. |
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Hunt Country Harvest Ball and Art Show
The Loudoun Arts Council and the PHILLIPS Programs for Children and Families, and Salamander Resort are hosting a special fundraising exhibit in Middleburg, Virginia, from October 26th through November 7th, the date of PHILLIPS’ Hunt Country Harvest Ball and Art Sale. |
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Focal Points: A New artsWorks Exhibit at Old Ox Brewery
LAC's artWorks program announces a new exhibit at Old Ox Brewery in Ashburn Virginia. Focal Points: Leaning In and Stepping Back features the works of LAC members Jan Blacka and Bob Friedenberg. |
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LAC artShare Grants: Funding for Local Arts Organizations
The artShare grants program was created to assist Loudoun non-profit arts organizations by providing funds to help maintain their stability and encourage their development.
Note: The 2015 application period has now ended. Grant awards will be announced Sunday, November 29th. |
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New Visiting Artists Program Announced
The Loudoun Arts Council (LAC) and Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) are collaborating on an initiative for local visual artists to visit classrooms during the 2014-2015 school year. The Visiting Artists program will demonstrate that art isn't in the past or confined to textbooks, but that is happening here and now, and continuously evolving. Visiting artists will share their experience with art as a career or as a creative journey, and engage students in the process. Besides collaborating with art teachers to enrich the LCPS arts curriculum, participating artists will be able to practice speaking about their work and methods and refine their presentation skills. |
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artWorks to Continue at Old Ox Brewery with Artist Anthony Allegro in July
The artWorks exhibit will be having a follow up display to Lori Goll with artist Anthony Alegro at Old Ox Brewery July through September. |
