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If you’re living in DC, you know that this city is home to some of the most talented and inspiring creatives out there.
From performance artists to musicians, painters, and fashion designers, Washington D.C. has a thriving arts scene that shouldn’t be overlooked. Whether you’re a local or just visiting for the weekend, here are five must-see DC artists that you need to check out!
Is There an Art Scene in DC?
Washington DC’s vibrant art scene is a testament to its diversity and culture:
- From the galleries in Dupont Circle to the street art in U Street, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
- The city boasts an incredibly diverse selection of artwork; from traditional landscape paintings to intricate abstract sculptures, DC has it all.
- There are also plenty of local galleries that exhibit work by emerging artists, providing an exciting glimpse into the future of Art in Washington.
- With a thriving performance art community, multiple museums, and countless creative institutions, it’s easy to see why the nation’s capital can proudly call itself a major hub for creativity.
Whether you’re looking for a unique after-hours experience or just want to take in some beautiful pieces from today’s great masters, DC surely has something that will pique your interest.
Are you ready to become the next famous artist in DC artists alley? If so, sign up for art lessons ASAP. You’ll learn how to join the profound artist showcase DC is proud of, plus helpful tips like the ones you see in the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXz6aLWWpvc
The Best DC Local Artists To Check Out
Learning about other artists is an important aspect of improving your own art know-how, whether it’s just a hobby or a prospective career path. This includes learning about artists of the past who have influenced the art world, as well as emerging artists and the current trends in the local art scene.
DC has been home to many influential artists, and continues to produce artists in many different media. Here are five important DC artists of the past and present who have helped put that nation’s capital on the art map.
1. William Leavitt
William Leavitt is a DC native who, in many ways, encapsulates where American art is at in the 21st century. A multidisciplinary artist of paintings, photographs, installations, and other forms, he is now based in LA and uses his work to ask questions about how we relate to pop culture and the entertainment industry. Leavitt’s diverse work is both a celebration and critique of Americana, and demonstrates how artists can engage with ideas when they refuse to be constrained by structure. While mainly associated with conceptual art in LA, Leavitt’s success in California has been an inspiration to younger DC artists with postmodern sensibilities. When it comes to influences on conceptual art in DC today, Leavitt is truly one of the most important figures.
2. Christian Platt
Christian Platt is one of the youngest artists on this list, born in DC in 1986. His work explores ideas found in complexity theory. Using white dots on black paper, he builds works of enormous scale that seek to overwhelm the observer. A graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, he has emerged as a key new voice in the art world, tackling the older artistic concerns of balance and order while also addressing our modern fears of technology. Platt is an important figure for emerging artists in DC, demonstrating that there is still much to be said, even when dealing with classic themes. Moreover, his fast success has been an inspiration for aspiring painters in the nation’s capital; his continued improvement and growing popularity have arrived via a mix of talent, hard work, and ongoing study, and is a great example for young artists to follow.
3. Jessica Van Brakle
Jessica Van Brakle has a family background in the construction business, and this is reflected in her work. Famous for the crane and construction metaphors throughout her pieces, Van Brakle uses fine black lines and organic forms, along with bright colors, to explore the possibilities of human perception. The minimalist approach of her work marries classical themes with concerns of urbanization and illustrates how modern landscape painting is not restricted to purely pastoral scenes. A local Washington artist, her use of cranes as the main motif within her landscapes is truly unique; this exciting symbol depicts and speaks to the progress of modern DC.
4. William Adair
William Adair is renowned among DC artists for his concept of creating door-like spaces using frames, portals, mirrors, and metallic leaf. He has changed the DC arts scene with his innovative approach to his exhibits. One of his most recent exhibits, “The Golden Doors to Infinity”, is a traveling show that journeys through different cities around the world, before ending in the California desert where it will be left to decay. His contributions to gilding and frame history in DC and the greater art world have been tremendous. His emphasis on conservation has also helped push preservation of old art works to the forefront of the industry.
5. Pat Goslee
Pat Goslee has worked with abstract patterns in painting for many years. She uses complex forms and materials to create dense compositions that produce an illusion of deep space. Her work encourages thinking and wondering in an entirely fresh way, and urges the viewer to get lost in the art. As one of the most influential DC artists today, her paintings have made a huge impact on the art world in DC, particularly with her most recent showing, a pairing with Jessica Van Brakle at the Adah Rose Gallery in Kensington. Goslee’s abstract works are both aesthetically pleasing and deeply contemplative, and have added a jolt of energy to the DC art scene.
A Few More of the Best Washington DC Artists
Washington D.C. has a plethora of talented and creative individuals who have made an impact on the city’s art scene. From makeup artists to painters to comic book illustrators, there is no shortage of skilled creators in the District. Here are a few more famous DC artists to know about!
DC Makeup Artists
For those looking for a talented makeup artist, look no further than Yolanda Jones Makeup Artistry. Yolanda has been featured on major networks like NBC4 and Fox 5 DC and her work can be seen on many red carpets around town. Her portfolio ranges from bridal makeup to fashion editorial looks and she is sure to make any client look their absolute best!
DC Comics Artists
DC Comics is home to some of the world’s most iconic characters, so it’s only fitting that they have some of the best comic book illustrators in town as well!
Some names you should know include Francis Manapul, who worked on Convergence; Ivan Reis, who illustrated Green Lantern; and Amanda Conner, who did artwork for Harley Quinn comics. All three are highly talented individuals whose work will truly blow your mind away!
Famous DC Painters
When it comes to painting talent in Washington D.C., there are plenty of names you should be aware of like Kelly Towles, Kerry James Marshall, Barbara Kruger, and Kehinde Wiley just to name a few!
These four artists have made significant contributions to the art world with their bold works that often feature political or social themes. Whether it’s graffiti murals or oil paintings, these four heavyweights are sure to inspire any aspiring artist!
Finding Artist Jobs DC
If you are an artist looking for work in the D.C. area, you’ve come to the right place! The nation’s capital is full of opportunities for creative types and with the right moves, you can find the job of your dreams.
Get Creative With Your Job Search
Your first step should be to get creative with your job search. Instead of just sending out resumes, take the time to think outside the box and look for opportunities beyond traditional job postings.
Think about who you know in the DC area—friends, former colleagues, and professionals in your field—and reach out to them for advice or introductions. Networking is key when it comes to finding a job; don’t underestimate its power.
Network
Networking is one of the most important aspects of finding any job, not just those in the arts. You never know when you might meet someone who knows someone who needs your services or when having a friend in high places could open doors for you.
Reach out to fellow artists and ask them what resources they use and how they network—you may be surprised at how many helpful contacts you get! Connect with local art organizations as well; these groups will often host events or workshops that can help expand your network and knowledge base.
Attend an Artist Showcase DC
Artist showcases are great resources for exposure and networking opportunities, especially if they are hosted by reputable organizations like DC Arts Studios or DC Artists Alley (more on this below).
These events allow artists to showcase their work and demonstrate their skills while also providing invaluable networking opportunities with other creatives in the field. Additionally, attending showcases can give you valuable insight into the industry trends in D.C., so be sure to make it out to as many events as possible!
DC Artists Alley
DC Artists Alley is an online platform designed specifically for showcasing local talent from all over Washington D.C.. The website has profiles where artists can showcase their work and connect with potential clients or employers; it is also a great resource for networking since there are so many different creatives from various disciplines represented here.
Furthermore, DC Artists Alley holds regular panel discussions about topics relevant to today’s creative professionals—it’s definitely worth checking out if you haven’t yet!
Want to Become a DC Artist? Start By Learning From the Very Best!
These artists are important people to keep an eye on in the DC arts scene. As a new artist, it’s a good idea to stay connected to the local arts community and to meet and study as many artists as possible. Likewise, knowing about artists who have come before us can help you improve your own art.
DC is full of amazing artists from all genres who are creating incredible work every day—so make sure you get out there and check them out!
Whether it’s attending an exhibit or live performance or simply taking a stroll through one of our amazing neighborhoods, there’s something new waiting around every corner for those willing to seek it out! So what are you waiting for? Go explore our city’s incredible art scene today – and ask your art teacher for tips on where to look for other inspiring work.
Photo by www.GlynLowe.com
Megan L.