This column is sponsored by Arlington Arts/Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Genealogy has become a national pastime — fueled by online tools like Ancestry.com and shows like “Finding Your Roots.” Now, Arlingtonians can dive into their own family history in a creative, hands-on way.
The Arlington Art Truck returns this spring with its first activation: HAND LETTERING A FAMILY TREE, led by Arlington-based calligrapher Felicia Brice McFail. This interactive experience blends art, history, and storytelling — inviting you to explore your roots while learning the basics of calligraphy.
Choose from beautifully illustrated family tree templates by Arlington artists Melanie Kehoss and Christiann MacAuley. Add in your family name(s) using your handwriting or our beginner-friendly calligraphy guide. As the final touch, Felicia will hand-letter your family name at the top, transforming your piece into a personalized work of art.
Arlington Public Library is the community partner for this activation. Library staff will be onsite to introduce you to the Charlie Clark Center for Local History and demonstrate how to access free genealogical tools at the library. Need a library card? You can sign up on-site.
Upcoming Art Truck Activations:
*Update — the Green Valley Farmers Market is cancelled for Friday, April 11 due to inclement weather*
- Friday, April 11 | 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Green Valley Farmers Market
John Robinson Town Square, 2406 Shirlington Road
- Sunday, April 13 | 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Columbia Pike Farmers Market
2820 Columbia Pike
- Saturday, April 19 | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Arlington Farmers Market
N. Uhle and 14th Street N., Courthouse Metro
The Arlington Art Truck will be popping up across the county through May 17, helping neighbors connect with their personal histories — and each other — through art and storytelling.
For updates and the full schedule, visit the Arlington Art Truck page on our website and follow along on Instagram.
