The Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA) is a quick worthwhile visit…read more A big appeal of MoCA is that there's abundant off-street parking and the museum is free. While there is an upstairs and downstairs, the exhibits are rather small and it will take you less than a half hour to go through the entire museum. While there were a couple people at the information window, I was the only visitor during my brief time here. I did find all the art at MoCA interesting.

This is a wonderful museum in the heart of Arlington. I've been here a few times now and even took…read morea class here recently. I love their galleries and they always have so many exciting activities and events planned. There are two locations; the museum and they have a smaller location over by AWS in Arlington.

Outside the art galleries along the National Mall, Foundry Gallery is one of the many galleries…read moretucked away in the neighborhoods of Washington, D.C. Within walking distance of U Street NW, Foundry Gallery is a two-room gallery open Friday-Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. free of charge. When I stopped in on a Friday in May, their main exhibit showcased Roderick Turner's paintings of "Life In DC." The gallery has a guestbook, two areas where people can buy art, and a single restroom in the back.

I had attended a fashion show, Tygerian Lace, here! It's a relatively small place for a fashion…read moreshow, but the show had provided some chairs, cupcakes, and an open bar. There is nearby parking at Howard University parking lot for 10$/day -- they only accept cash; however, CVS is nearby if you need to get some cash back. We had stayed for about 2 hours. It was relatively crowded for the fashion show. Most people were wearing masks unless they were eating, drinking, or taking photos. I'm unsure what the baseline is for the Foundry Gallery.

Interesting selection of art. Staff are friendly and helpful. No "hard" sell. In fact, I believe…read morethey allow you to "test drive" a painting to confirm you'll emjoy it in your home (I assume they ask for some sort of security?)

I liked for Principle Gallery for a few reasons. First, the staff were friendly without being…read morepretentious. Secondly, the quality of the paintings was notable. Principle represents a number of artists and also has opening receptions. They let you peruse around and do not follow or bug you. It is a nice place to go if you are hanging out on King Street. The art is reasonable price and without cheap reproductions.

Hemphill Fine Arts is one of the few galleries across the city off the National Mall and one of the…read moreeven fewer commercial galleries in DC. Located on 14th St NW in the U Street neighborhood, it's a small gallery in a commercial building open Tuesday-Saturday 10AM-5PM. You can make an appointment or just walk in during those hours. Once they buzz you in, follow the sign to the elevator and take it up a floor or two. Once the elevator opens, you'll see the tall glass door inviting you into space. Before you explore, sign the guestbook, read about the gallery's history, and take a pin (for free!). As you wander through the gallery, you'll see it's really two main rooms and the exhibits change every few months. The exhibit I saw was very modern art forward with perfect lighting making it look good on Instagram. If you're in the area, stop by. It's free and will only take 10 minutes, but it's worth it!

They were in between shows when we came but they still allowed us to walk around the gallery. In…read morebetween shows it was a mess but that is expected. There were only a few pieces displayed but still interesting to analyze. The gallery is easy to miss. I had to walk by a couple times. The door is tiny and you have to buzz to come in. The gallery is spacious and has high ceilings. The atmosphere was welcoming. It was a quick stop and worth it. I would come back for another showing!

"Where's your will to be weird?" ― Jim Morrison…read more This quote by one of Alexandria's favorite sons pretty much sums up this eclectic art gallery. Yes, just ask anyone from Austin, TX, and you'll understand why weird is indeed a good thing. I think weird art is cool. Weird art makes us think. Weird art keeps us honest. And nothing can be more cool, more provocative, more honest than the Artbot Gallery. I popped into this shop on a whim, and I was immediately treated to a visual feast of paintings, nick-nacks, and assorted surreal treasures. I quickly settled on a gift for a friend who simply adores Owls; it was a small portrait of a rather mean looking owl in a Victorian business suit. At first, I thought he might look too mean, but when I thought it over, I realized that if I were an owl, I would probably be miffed to be stuck in a suit as well. One perfect gift down! I soon found myself also purchasing a Krampos Christmas stocking and some unicorn band aids. Hey, where else are you going to find something so utterly cool and weird. I almost opted for a Krampos scarf as well, but I wasn't sure how that devilish image would be received with the hoi polloi...Best to not not to risk it, like Krampos I might end up scaring small children. The rest of the shop curiosity shop of art and magic. From the paintings of rainbow colored supermen to the Bigfoot lunch box, this shop has something for everyone. At first, you might be a little intimidated and think that this shop isn't for you, but I say give in to whimsy and let your imagination guide you to something really cool, something really wierd.

We stopped by again... Apparently, the business is now half art gallery and half tattoo shop…read more UPDATE August, 2017: Now they are closed. I hear they moved.

I went their opening party. There were several artists' works. I saw many frame samples at the 1st…read morefloor and pictures and paints at the 2nd floor. The owner is a really sweet and sophisticated lady. She and one of her customers told me about some artists over a glass of wine and cheese. Variety: Contemporary. Price: $$$$ Parking lot: Street or garage. Location: Fabulous. Many great shops around there.

Susan has framed about 20 pieces for me. Though I no longer reside in the DC area, I continue to…read moreuse Susan as my fine art framer. I'm sure Atlanta has many fine framers, but why rely on someone else when Susan's team is the best? She never disappoints.

A super cute shop that allows you to support local Alexandria artists. Located off the main drag,…read more The owner, was great. I have been in this store three times and she was extremely helpful and engaging during our visit. her daughter was great checking me out with my purchases. While I was there the candles I love... that are made by a veteran, happen to swing by with new products geared towards Christmas scents. They were fantastic. There is a few different artists for photography. Their work is stunning. There are things like art, jewelry, candles, photography, bath products, lotions, soaps, and much more. This store is a great stop to bring something local back. The pricing is on point in regards to supporting an artist. I highly recommend stopping in.

This is a good place to find gifts if you are looking to support local artists. As a local artist,…read moreI carried my jewelry here for about 7 months and did pretty well. The manager, Kellie is lovely and they have great events and activities for children. https://www.etsy.com/shop/KPOCustomDesigns?ref=shop-header-name&listing_id=1505282548&from_page=listing

Really cool spot! Came here for a birthday party and learned wheel throwing and it was a blast…read more The class was $80 and our group was taught by an instructor who went over all of the basics. While wheel throwing isn't necessarily easy, it was helpful to have someone go through all of the steps and show us how to make bowls/pots/etc. I was actually surprised when mine turned out to look somewhat like what it was supposed to! I have been trying to get into some of their weekly classes but they are booked up pretty far. Hoping I can get into a class in 2022!

Had my "One shot!" class today, which is for newbies that need training with the pottery wheel!…read more It was a $45 class but it lasted about 3 hours. I had no previous experience and it was a wonderful experience! The instructor was able to give specific instructions for those that are left/right handed. They offer different classes/workshops if you check out their website and their studio is open for use on sundays if you want to build on your skills. The studio is larger than expected with plenty of room to get dirty with some clay :)