You can never have too much art in your life. Whether you’re looking to take home a new piece to add to your collection or just looking to get inspired by the talented painters, sculptors, and mixed-media artists that call Northern Virginia home, these art galleries will have something to take your breath away.
Torpedo Factory Art Center
This art center, housed in a former munitions plant, is a staple on Alexandria’s waterfront. It’s home to 71 artists’ studios, where visitors can see artists at work and purchase art for their own collections. There’s a constantly rotating slate of exhibitions across several galleries, so on any given day one could see works like paintings, sculpture, fiber arts, printmaking, and more. 105 N. Union St., Alexandria
Workhouse Arts Center
This former prison has been transformed into a community arts center, with 11 buildings that hold galleries, artist studios, and events spaces. Visitors can view art exhibitions, theater or musical performances, and attend community events. The Lucy Burns Museum, named for the notable suffragist who was once jailed at the prison, delves into the history of prisons and the women’s suffrage movement. 9518 Workhouse Wy., Lorton
Gallery Underground
The Arlington Artists Alliance runs this gallery, where monthly exhibitions show off the works of talented local artists. The works are those of both established and emerging artists. The Shops at 2100 Crystal Drive: 2120-A Crystal Plz. Arcade, Arlington
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington
Stop by to see Reclining Liberty, an installation that looks like the Statue of Liberty relaxing across the lawn of this Arlington art museum (it’s on view until July 24), then step inside to see more art. There are nine exhibition galleries throughout the space with a rotating display of contemporary art. 3550 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Nepenthe Gallery
This fine art gallery shows a wide range of works, from 19th and early 20th works from the owners’ private collection to new works from NoVA-based artists. The space hosts that include artist talks, exhibits, and a weekly ART+WINE+CHEESE event every Thursday. 7918 Fort Hunt Rd., Alexandria
mosaicARTS
In the Mosaic District, this gallery displays works of contemporary art from local, national, and international artists. It also offers art workshops and open-studio creative time where art lovers of any skill level can visit to practice their skills in a medium of their choice. 2931-B Eskridge Rd., Fairfax
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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