A rotating exhibit of art pieces from the Arlington Artists Alliance is coming to an American restaurant in Clarendon through a new partnership.
Westville will be hosting a reception for the new project from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, May 29 at 2800 Clarendon Blvd. The exhibit, which is expected to change on a quarterly basis, will feature works available for purchase that are aligned with the restaurant’s earthy aesthetic and veggie-forward menu.
“[It’s] going to be both abstract and a little bit whimsical, with bright colors and happy scenes to reflect the restaurant’s attitude toward making people happy when they walk in the door,” volunteer and community venue organizer Celia Slater told ARLnow.
The exhibit will highlight about three or four artists at a time, with the first rotation displaying works by Miguel Espinoza, Anya Getter, Bryan Jernigan and Julie Wallace.
Westville, a New York City-based chain, opened for business last summer near the Alliance’s permanent gallery space at 2700 Clarendon Blvd. This opened shortly after it was announced the Crystal City Underground would close, leading to the eventual shuttering of the nonprofit’s former Gallery Underground.
“Our preference is to work with local artists,” Westville owner Jay Strauss said in a release. “At our roots, we are a neighborhood restaurant and embrace any opportunity to support local organizations, educational facilities, theater and arts groups and athletic clubs.”
The partnership is part of the Arlington Artists Alliance’s community venue program, which hosts exhibits at venues throughout the county, including spots like the Arlington Free Clinic, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church and Capital Rehab.
Slater said the nonprofit is “always on the lookout” for new businesses, government offices and nonprofits to partner with.
“We love building connections with the community through our venues,” President Cindy Donohoe said in a release. “These partnerships not only enhance Arlington’s quality of life with visual arts and culture, but also give local artists opportunities to share their art.”
The Arlington Artists Alliance supports roughly 220 members through exhibits, programs and more. Upcoming events include an opening reception from 5-7 p.m. today (Thursday) for the Arlington Career Center’s new student show, “PHASES.” The exhibit will be on display in Clarendon through June 28.
