The Torpedo Factory Art Center is one of the largest visual arts centers in the US, consisting of three floors with 82 working studios, 7 galleries, 2 workshops, the Art League School and the Alexandria Museum of Archeology. Built during World War I as a munitions factory, the Torpedo Factory is today the centerpiece of Old Town Alexandria, located along the docks of the Potomac River on the lively boardwalk that also includes a marina, shops , public parks, restaurants and residences. In 1974, a group of local artists and the city of Alexandria, Virginia, converted the building to serve as an art center displaying a wide variety of media, including painting, ceramics, photography, jewelry, stained glass, fiber, printmaking, and sculpture.
Artists invite visitors to see them at work and ask questions about their creative processes. This popular attraction is a great place to find unique gifts and decorative items for your home.
The Art League School is a multifaceted visual arts organization that offers a wide variety of art classes for children and adults. The Alexandria Museum of Archeology is located on the third floor and serves as a public laboratory with hands-on discovery kits focused on the archaeological history of Alexandria.
The Torpedo Factory Art Center welcomes emerging artists to participate in its Graduate Residency Program. His studio is located on the first floor of Studio 12. This program is run in partnership with accredited MFA programs and selected artists can create and sell work, interact with the public, and network with other artists.
Direction
105 North Union Street. Alexandria, VA (703) 746-4570 See a map
Schedule
Open every day from 10 am to 6 pm and Thursdays from 6 to 9 pm for Art Night. Individual work study hours vary.
The center sometimes closes at 5 pm for private events.
All Torpedo Factory Art Center artists are also independent small business owners. Not only do they help shape Old Town Alexandria’s distinctive creative personality, but on average, dollars spent at local businesses return three times more money to the local economy compared to a chain store.
Official Website: www.torpedofactory.org
