Local art galleries are a wonderful way to experience and be a part of the flourishing, creative community of Washington, D.C.
Art makes an amazing
décor piece, a
talking point, and -- in general -- makes people feel different. If you’re looking to learn and participate in the D.C. art scene, the best way to start is with local galleries that offer personalized attention and unique perspectives. Here are three art galleries to visit in the city.
1234 9th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20001
This is a great art gallery to get your feet wet in the artistic community in Washington, D.C. The gallery hosts tons of events and exhibits in its historic warehouse space. Brick walls and industrial features make the gallery a chic, modern space that’s inviting to a wide range of people interested in the creative scene.
Many of the events that Long View Gallery puts on mix socialization with art. The upcoming
D.C. Wine Fest, a tasting event with local wineries, live music, and, of course, the current exhibition of paintings is the perfect way to introduce you to understanding and appreciating art, in a no-pressure environment. Bring your art friends, or make new friends, and ask them and the staffed experts all about the creative process, the artist, and how you can maybe purchase a piece for yourself.
You can check out the list of upcoming exhibitions
here, and learn more about the artists that have been highlighted at Long View Gallery
here.
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901 New York Avenue, Washington, D.C., 20001
Touchstone Gallery has a long-standing history in Washington, D.C. It originally opened in 1976 by 30 local artists, but has since moved several times, eventually ending up in its current home on New York Avenue, in the City Center development. The Washington Post has awarded it the “Best Gallery in D.C.” status in both 2016 and 2017, and The Washington City Paper labeled it one of the top three commercial art galleries in Washington, D.C., in 2016.
The gallery focuses on exhibiting quality, contemporary artwork, and its mission has remained the same since its opening:
“to enrich the lives of the community through exhibits of diverse contemporary collections of visual art; to promote a rich variety of artistic talent in the D.C. region; to connect collectors with its 45 member artists; and to foster continuing artistic and career growth of participating artists through encouragement and support.”
Check out the current and upcoming offerings
here. You also have the option to shop online in a variety of categories, from artists to type of work,
here.
And once you're done checking out the art, grab dinner at one of these fabulous
City Center restaurants.
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2108 R Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20008
Studio Gallery is the oldest artist-owned gallery in Washington, D.C., and it fits right into the neighborhood vibe of the
Dupont Circle. The neighborhood is a haven for artists in Washington, D.C., and does a great job of creating exposure for its many galleries, by hosting events such as the
First Fridays in Dupont, where galleries become accessible to the public and spotlight exhibits over wine and snacks.
This gallery is a blend of old and new, located in a historic row house, but featuring plenty of contemporary artists -- especially those that are just emerging onto the scene. It prides itself
“on being a vibrant part of the community through outreach, teaching, internships, and public art exhibitions.”
To view the schedule of upcoming exhibitions, you can visit the gallery’s
website.
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Have you been to any of these galleries? What is your favorite part about the local art scene in Washington, D.C.? Let us know in the comments below!
