June 2008
HistoricAlexandriaALIVE
Join us on the streets of Alexandria as history comes to life! Each Sunday, learn, participate, engage, and enjoy with performers and costumed interpreters from noon to 5 p.m. Find performers at Market Square, along King Street between Market Square and the waterfront, and on the waterfront behind the Torpedo Factory. Free! Check it out!-
Drawings by William Lydston, Jr.
April 1 - December 31
Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site
4301 W. Braddock Road
Alexandria, VA 22304
www.fortward.org 703/838-4848
Original Civil War drawings by soldier, artist and musician William Lydston, Jr. Exhibit coincides with a statewide celebration of Virginia's musical heritage. Fort Ward pairs drawings from Lydston's wartime experiences with musical instruments and related objects from the Museum's collection. Free. Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays, noon to 5 p.m.
Free!
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"Living Legends of Alexandria"
April 24 - September 8
The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum
201 S. Washington Street
Alexandria , VA 22314
www.alexandriahistory.org 703/838-4994
This photo-documentary exhibition, featuring the work of Nina Tisara, identifies and honors individuals whose vision and dedication have made a tangible difference to the quality of life in Alexandria. Of the 50 individuals nominated in 2006, all of whom are included in this exhibit, 12 were featured in articles published by the Alexandria Gazette Packet.Free!
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Rackets & Remedies – Laurel Hausler
May 2 - June 12
The Athanaeum
201 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.nvfaa.org 703/548-0035
In Rackets & Remedies, influenced in part by the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum and the collections of Dr. Robert Greenspan, Hausler explores two basic concepts. The first is the inexorable intertwining of advertising and medicine. And the second is how little this relationship, and the relationship to the consumer has changed in the last century or so. Hausler’s works incorporate oil paint, paper, pencil, ink. Open noon-4 p.m. Thurs. – Sun. For free special events, check out www.apothecarymuseum.org or call 703/838-3852.
Free!
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Shells and Pears
May 2 - June 30
Printmakers, Inc., Studio 325
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/printmakers.htm 703/838-4565
Carolyn Witschonke shows recent three color plate etchings, monotypes and image transfers of two of her favorite images - shells and pears.
Free!
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Fables for the Tables
May 4 - June 22
219 Restaurant
219 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.219restaurant.com 703/739-9338
Local Alexandria theater troupe Natural Theatricals presents song and story to accompany 219 Restaurant's renowned Sunday brunch in the restaurant's elegant 19th-century Victorian setting. Join storyteller Paula Alprin, vocalist Alexandra Lajoux and percussionist Earl Richardson for an original program Sundays beginning at 2 p.m. All the songs and stories share a percussion motif. No cover charge but you must have brunch to have access to it. 703/739-9338 (for information about the performances) or 703/549-1141 (for reservations).
$ Entrance Fee
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"From Earth to Elegance"
May 5 - June 1
Scope Gallery, Studio 19
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria , VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/scope.htm 703/838-4565
The transformation of clay into handcrafted pieces of art for functional and decorative use, presented by the Ceramic Guild.
Free!
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Conflict & Contrast
May 6 - June 1
Multiple Exposures Gallery
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/multiple_exposures.htm 703/838-4565
Fine art photography show featuring artists M. Scott Mahaskey and Susan Meyers. Reception: May 11, 2-4pm
Free!
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"Challenges"
May 6 - June 1
Enamelists Gallery, Studio 28
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/enamelists.htm 703/838-4565
This all-members show is an outright dare for the artists to push their limits, try new approaches, and expand their horizons into unfamiliar areas of forms, colors and techniques.
Free!
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"When a Painting is Knot"
May 20 - June 29
Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery, Studio 18
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/potomac_crafts.htm 703/838-4565
A showing of fiber interpretations of Gustav Klimt’s "The Kiss", a classic from the art nouveau era. Jewelry, sculpture, clothing, and wall pieces are some of the items that will be exhibited.
Free!
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Mount Vernon Celebrates Martha Washington's Birthday
June 2
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
South end of the GW Parkway
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy
Mount Vernon, VA 22121
www.MountVernon.org 703/780-2000
Mount Vernon celebrates Martha Washington's 277th Birthday! All guests named Martha get in free with a valid id.
Free!
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Surface Matters
June 2-29
Scope Gallery, Studio 19
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/scope.htm 703/838-4565
The Kiln Club displays pieces using various techniques of surface decorations, from carving to brush work.
Free!
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Some New Things
June 3 - July 6
Enamelists Gallery, Studio 28
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/enamelists.htm 703/838-4565
Kathy Bransford creates new pieces that explore a variety of techniques and styles.
Free!
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The Yacht Show at National Harbor
June 5-8
National Harbor
137 National Plaza
National Harbor, MD 20745
www.yachtshownh.com 410/268-8828
This premier showcase will feature only discriminating yachts of imposing size available for purchase or worldwide charter plus an abundance of exhibitors providing equipment, services and materials for the type of yacht displayed. Tours of adjacent historic Alexandria by water or land will be available as an option. Admission $16 & $30.$ Entrance Fee
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Think GREEN! Art Exhibit
June 5-29
Del Ray Artisans Gallery
Nicolas A Colasanto Center
2704 Mt. Vernon Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
www.TheDelRayArtisans.org 703/838-4827
Thinking Green is a hot topic and in June the Del Ray Artisans showcase some the areas hottest eco-thinking artists as they interpret Think GREEN! in their own art. Juror Alison Sigethy is an award-winning glass artist and gold-medal kayaker.
First Thursday on June 5 will be a preview with the gallery open noon-9 p.m., showcasing an array of talent in all medium. Opening Reception is 7-10 p.m. Friday, June 6. Regular gallery hours: Thurs noon-4 p.m., Fri noon-9 p.m., Sat 10 a.m..-4 p.m., Sun. noon-4 p.m.Free!
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Yoko Ono Presents "Power to the People"
June 6-8
1104 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
888/278-1969
"Power to the People" is a look at John Lennon's life through his artwork. All artwork is available for purchase. Open 5-9 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. $2 donation to the Alexandria Seaport Foundation requested.
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Summer Lantern Tours
June 6 - August 29
Gadsby's Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.gadsbystavern.org 703/838-4242
Friday Evening Lantern Tours After happy hour or dinner in Old Town, see the 18th century in a whole new light! On Friday evenings from June through August, tour by candlelight with a costumed guide the historic tavern (c.1785) and City Hotel built in 1792 and see how guests experienced the site before the advent of electricity. Tour times are 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. $5 per person, ages 5 and up. Museum may be closed on some occasions, so please call ahead to verify tour dates at 703.838.4242.
$ Entrance Fee
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Bluegrass and BBQ
June 7
Lee-Fendall House Museum
614 Oronoco Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.leefendallhouse.org 703/548-1789
Bring your picnic blanket and enjoy three Bluegrass bands and some of the best BBQ in Northern Virginia. The event will run from noon to 5 pm. All proceeds benefit the restoration and educational activities of the Lee-Fendall House.
$ Entrance Fee | Reservations Required
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Alexandria's Armenian Festival
June 7
Market Square
301 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703/683-0208
Alexandria's 16th Annual Armenian Festival from noon to 6 p.m. with Armenian foods, arts and crafts, live entertainment and dignitaries. Proceeds benefit the children of Gyumri, Armenia.
Free!
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Arlington & Alexandria Community Bike Ride
June 7
2121 Crystal Drive
Crystal City, VA 22202
www.waba.org/events/cbr/index.php 703/519-3400
This non-competitive ride gives a first-hand view of some of the best trails, bike routes, and facilities the region has to offer. After, riders enjoy valet bike parking, entertainment, prize giveaways! Tour includes the Mount Vernon Trail, Old Town Alexandria, Del Ray, Four Mile Run and more with two routes – one 23 miles and one for families that is eight miles. Cost is $18 for adults, $34 for families.$ Entrance Fee
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"The Underpants"
June 7-28
The Little Theatre of Alexandria
600 Wolfe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.thelittletheatre.com 703/683-0496
Theodore Maske has an unusual problem: his wife's underpants won't stay up! When they accidentally fall down in front of the Kaiser, Theo swears to keep his bride at home until the incident is forgotten. Amid this chaos, he’s trying to rent a room in their flat, but is the room the only thing the prospective lodgers have in mind?
$ Entrance Fee
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Alexandria Symphony Orchestra Children's Festival
June 8
Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center
3001 N. Beauregard St.
Alexandria, VA 22311
www.alexsym.org 703/548-0885
Ahoy, mateys! Set your course for the ASO's Children's Festival featuring musical selections from "The Pirates of Caribbean," dance and art activities, and even a costume contest! Tickets only $5! 2-4 p.m.
$ Entrance Fee
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Arlandria-Chirilagua Festival
June 8
3600-3800 block of Mount Vernon
Alexandria , VA 22301
www.alexandriava.gov 703/883-4686
Food, music and information about neighborhood organizations are offered at this annual festival. Noon-7 p.m.
Free!
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Songs of Freedom
June 8
Gunston Hall
10709 Gunston Road
Mason Neck, VA 22079
www.gunstonhall.com 703/550-9220
Alexandria’s Alfred Street Baptist Church Male Chorus performs. Hearth cooking demonstrations and special tours illuminate slave life at Gunston Hall. Children even pitch in with the chores. 1-5:30 p.m.; performances at 2:30
$ Entrance Fee
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Robert E. Greenspan, MD: Advertising, Promotion and Medicine
June 8
The Athenaeum
201 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.nvfaa.org 703/838-3852
Dr. Greenspan, author of "Medicine: Perspectives in History and Art" speaks at 4 p.m. He will discuss the relationship of advertising and promotion too medicine. Illustrating his points with examples from his collection of medical tools, packaging and ephemera, he will illustrate the topic from the sublime to the ridiculous. Held in conjunction with "Rackets & Remedies" exhibit.
Free! | Reservations Required
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"Advertising and Medicine in the 19th Century and Today" Lecture
June 8
The Athenaeum
201 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.apothecarymuseum.org 703/838-3852
Robert E. Greenspan, M.D. and author of “Medicine: Perspectives in History and Art,” will discuss the relationship of advertising/promotion and medicine and the similarities between the 19th century and today. Citing examples from his preeminent collection of medical tools, packaging and ephemera, he will illustrate the topic from the sublime to the ridiculous and back again. Dr. Greenspan will sign copies of his book. This free event is co-sponsored by the Athenaeum and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. Reserve your seat online now!
Free! | Reservations Required
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Torpedo Factory Artist of the Year: Joyce McCarten
June 11 - July 13
Target Gallery
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/target.htm 703/838-4565
This annual exhibition is sponsored by the Friends of the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a separate nonprofit organization. This year's winner is associate artist Joyce McCarten. McCarten is an award-winning artist whose work is in private and public collections in the U.S., Europe and South Africa. Many of her paintings are inspired by visits to places that speak to her own sensitivities. The Artist of the Year award includes a monetary prize and a solo exhibition in the Target Gallery. Reception: Second Thursday Art Night, June 12, 6-8pm
Free!
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Second Thursday Art Night, Dancing in the Streets
June 12
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/thursday.htm 703/838-4565
Hop, twirl, or twist your way over to the Torpedo Factory! Browse open studios, interact with the artists, and enjoy refreshments at this free event. Visit Target Gallery from 6-8 p.m. to meet Joyce McCarten, the Friends of the Torpedo Factory Artist of the Year, and view her solo show Don’t Postpone Joy. Join Joyce for a gallery talk following the award ceremony at 7 p.m. Visit The Art League Gallery and Multiple Exposures Gallery for special opening receptions. Meet artist and environmental activist Alison Sigethy in studio 307 where she will be selling recycled glass sculptures to help fund her expedition across Arctic Canada. Join Generations Dance Studios for a special dance demonstration. Jazz it up with fun activities throughout the night! 6–9 pmm.Free!
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Madeline MacNeil
June 12
The Athenaeum
201 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.nvfaa.org 703/548-0035
7 p.m. - Part of Second Thursday in Old Town.
It's been said that Madeline MacNeil's audiences hold their collective breath as the last notes of her songs drift away. Since 1972, she has sung and told stories inspired by the mountains and the people of the Shenandoah with her beautiful voice and exceptional dulcimer skills. Admission is $10; tickets available in advance online.$ Entrance Fee
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Family Dig Day
June 14
Grounds of the George Washington Masonic Memorial
101 Callahan Drive
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexandriaarchaeology.org 703/838-4399
Help City archaeologists and trained volunteers screen excavated soil for artifacts from a real "dig" located on the grounds of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Wear comfortable clothes, protect yourself from the sun, and bring a water bottle. Please, no sandals. All necessary equipment will be supplied. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a participating adult. 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. $5 per person. Reservations required. E-mail archaeology@alexandriava.gov or call 703.838.4399 to save your spot!
$ Entrance Fee
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African-American Writers Event
June 14
Alexandria Black History Museum
902 Wythe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexblackhistory.org 703/838-4554
Local African-American authors representing a variety of genres read and discuss their works and influences. Among the participants are novelist Vannessagrace, author of "The Dark Before the Light at Dawn;" playwright Charnika Louise Hayes, author of "The Other Side of Womanhood;" local history writers Nathania Branch Miles and Jane Taylor Thomas, co-authors of photo histories "Oxon Hill" and "Fort Washington" from the Images of America series; novelist, poet and police officer Quintin Peterson, author of "A Dark Place" and "The Kingsley Affair;" and genealogist and columnist Char McCargo Bah, contributing author of "Everyday Grace, Everyday Miracle." Free! 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Free!
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27th Alexandria Red Cross Waterfront Festival
June 14-15
Oronoco Bay Park
Oronoco & N. Union streets
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.waterfrontfestival.org 703/299-2524
27th Alexandria Red Cross Waterfront Festival fundraiser offers historic ship tours, arts & crafts, rides, music, kid’s crafts and games, food, and exhibits. $15 for Adults - one child free, $5 for each additional child. Take Metro to King or Braddock stations and ride the FREE shuttle. Or ride your bike - a bike valet will be available at the festival.
$ Entrance Fee
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Father's Day Tours
June 15
Gadsby's Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.gadsbystavern.org 703/838-4242
Celebrate with your favorite father at the place where the Father of our Country ate, drank, and influenced history. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is pleased to offer free tours on Father’s Day for all visiting fathers! Tour times are 1 – 5 p.m.
Free!
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Free Father’s Day Tours
June 15
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
105-107 South Fairfax Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.apothecarymuseum.org 703/838-3852
Treat your father to a special tour of the Apothecary, which first opened in 1792! See the outstanding collection of herbs and botanicals, shop furnishings, apothecary bottles and equipment, many still in their original location. The Apothecary is pleased to offer free tours on Father’s Day for all visiting fathers! Tour times are 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Cost $4 for all other adults and $2 for children (ages 11-17).
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Father’s Day Open House
June 15
Friendship Firehouse Museum
107 South Alfred Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.friendshipfirehouse.org 703/838-3891
Friendship Firehouse is offering special tours for fathers on Father’s Day. On this important day, Friendship Firehouse will make every father an honorary chief of the Friendship Fire Company Bucket Brigade. Every dad, with his children, will receive a certificate, get to ring the fire bell, and have his picture taken with the Friendship fire engine. 1-4 p.m. Free!
Free!
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Father's Day Tours
June 15
Lee-Fendall House Museum
614 Oronoco Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.leefendallhouse.org 703/548-1789
In honor of Father’s Day, the Lee-Fendall House Museum and Garden offer frees tours to fathers and grandfathers accompanied by their children. The Lee-Fendall House will be open for tours from 1 to 4 p.m., with the last tour at 3 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for students (11-17). Children under 11 are admitted at no charge.
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Lesole Dance Workshop
June 18
Alexandria Black History Museum
902 Wythe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexblackhistory.org 703/838-4356
This special Juneteenth event that uses film, music and dance to explore the origins of the unique Gumboot dance!
Created out of necessity, Gumboot dancing developed from traditional African roots to become a form of communication and entertainment amongst oppressed migrant miners in South Africa. As talking was banned inside the mines, the workers used their gumboots to communicate with each other by slapping their boots, stamping their feet, and rattling their ankle chains. Held in conjunction with June 19 performance.
7 p.m.$ Entrance Fee
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Juneteenth Lesole Dance Program
June 19
Alexandria Black History Museum
Lee Center
1108 Jefferson Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexblackhistory.org 703/838-4356
The Juneteenth celebration continues with this exciting and inspiring dance performance by the Lesole Dance Project. Lesole highlights the unique qualities of modern and Afro-Fusion style of dance while educating audiences about the history of South African dances like Gumboot, Indlamu and Pantsula. (See June 18 for details on a dance workshop to be held at Alexandria Black History Museum.)
7:30 p.m.$ Entrance Fee
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"Running Scared, Running Free"
June 20-22
Alexandria Black History Museum
902 Wythe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexblackhistory.org 703/838-4554
The spirit of Juneteenth is honored with this special presentation, an inspiring and at times harrowing story set in 1850, the year the Fugitive Slave Act was imposed. Three separate stories are dramatically intertwined in this award-winning suspenseful presentation. Meet Dorcas, a quick-witted runaway slave from South Carolina; Tempie, the “conductor” of a safe house on the Underground Railroad; and Tobias Brunt, a ruthless bounty hunter, determined to capture Dorcas and return her back to her plantation owner. Ticket are $10. Performances will be held at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
$ Entrance Fee
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"The Long View"
June 20 - August 10
The Athanaeum
201 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.nvfaa.org 703/548-0035
Landscapes with a common medium, style, and perspective by 10 members of the Washington Society of Landscape Painters. Featuring works by: Lani Browning, Marietje Chamberlain, Edward Cooper, Fiona Pocock Corn, Bernard Dellario, Barbara Nuss, Sara Linda Poly, Nancy Tankersley, Meg Walsh, and Richard Whiteley in The Athenaeum Gallery Thursday - Sunday, Noon to 4
Free!
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Civil War Medicine Day at the Lee-Fendall House
June 21
Lee-Fendall House Museum & Garden
614 Oronoco Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.leefendallhouse.org 703/548-1789
Learn about the Lee-Fendall House’s time as a Union hospital annex during the Civil War. Costumed interpreters will discuss general medical care, medicine for the wounded in the field, and hospital care.
$ Entrance Fee
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Coffee, Critique, and Conversation
June 22
Multiple Exposures Gallery, Studio 312
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N Union Street
Alexandria , VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/multiple_exposures.htm 703/838-4565
10:30am - noon. Bring a new set of images, photos that you have questions about, the beginnings of a photo project or a completed portfolio, and engage in a friendly dialogue about your work. Led by a Multiple Exposures Gallery member, each participant will lay out his or her images and a dialogue will begin. No reservation needed, just a sincere interest in discussing and sharing images.
Free!
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Think GREEN! Junk Mail Collage Workshop
June 22
Del Ray Artisans Gallery
Nicolas A Colasanto Center
2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
www.TheDelRayArtisans.org 703/838-4826
Think Green! Curator Karen Schmitz conducts a Junk Mail Collage Workshop. Participants explore collage techniques, composition and creative visual solutions that will make them THINK twice about their junk! Noon -3 p.m.
DRA Members $25/Non-Members $35. Registration online or call the gallery at 703/838-4826.$ Entrance Fee | Reservations Required
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"On the Road to Freedom" Book Discussion
June 26
Alexandria Black History Museum
902 Wythe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexblackhistory.org 703/838-4356
Award-winning journalist Charles E. Cobb Jr., looks at the civil rights movement with his new book, ”On the Road to Freedom,” going to the places – including Alexandria – where pioneers of the movement marched, sat-in at lunch counters, risked arrest and even their lives. Cobb is a former organizer for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee) and member of the National Association of Black Journalists. 6-8 p.m.
Free!
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All Hands on Deck! Hands-on-History Tent
June 26
Carlyle House Historic Park
121 N. Fairfax Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.carlylehouse.org 703/549-2997
Explore life on the high seas during Carlyle House’s Hands-on-History Tent: All Hands on Deck! Children and their families are invited to explore Alexandria's maritime history through crafts and hands-on activities. A 30 foot scale model schooner, the Lion will be on site to demonstrate rigging and signal flags. For a small fee, participants can build their own model sailboat and race it against others! Other activities include making a compass, designing a flag, writing with a quill pen and trying on colonial clothes. The event is designed for children ages 3-12.
10 a.m.-1 p.m.Free!
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"Function with a Flourish"
June 30 - July 27
Scope Gallery, Studio 19
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/scope.htm 703/838-4565
Food tastes better and is more visually pleasing served on beautifully handcrafted ceramic pieces. View such pieces as presented by the Ceramic Guild.
Free!
