Northern Virginia is a region of immense cultural diversity and opportunity, offering a wide range of professional and voluntary arts organizations, historic sites, and unique finds. With the creation of the Local Art Agencies of Northern Virginia (NVLAA), local arts agencies in Arlington County, the City of Alexandria, and Fairfax County are expanding resources and opportunities for artists and arts organizations throughout Washington D. C. The National Sports Library & Museum in Middleburg is a one-of-a-kind destination dedicated to preserving and sharing the literature, art, and culture of horse riding, fishing, and field sports.
Other noteworthy art experiences in Northern Virginia include the Arlington Arts Center, the Manassas ArtFactory, Arts Herndon, the Del Ray Artisans Gallery, the Principle Gallery of Alexandria, and the Waddell Art Gallery. The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities promotes the value of arts and culture in Alexandria by encouraging, investing in, and celebrating the creative contributions of artists and arts organizations through the division of the Office of the Arts. This facility operates in partnership between Mason, Prince William County, the City of Manassas, and the Commonwealth of Virginia to entertain, educate, and enrich the Northern Virginia community by providing diverse and accessible art experiences in state-of-the-art venues. Big names in music and theater often perform at large venues such as EagleBank Arena at George Mason University while smaller venues such as Jammin Java and The State Theater provide more intimate performances.
Art galleries such as Gallery Underground in Arlington and The Loft Gallery in Occoquan work to promote emerging local artists. The NVLAA provides artists and arts organizations throughout Northern Virginia with a series of free professional development workshops and networking opportunities. Additionally, Washington Area Lawyers for the Arts (WALA) is a nonprofit organization comprised of volunteer attorneys who provide education, promotion, and legal services to artists and cultural organizations in D. Northern Virginia is also home to a plethora of jobs in industries ranging from aerospace to finance to technology and life sciences.
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and abundant job opportunities, Northern Virginia is an ideal place for those looking to pursue their passions or find their next career move.
