2021 Explore Loudoun Visitors Guide - 2021 Explore Loudoun Visitors Guide
Public Art & Murals of the Moment
2021-12-20 09:36:04
On a Leesburg summer morning, artist Kaeley Boyle was hard at work at the South King Street Bridge near the Washington & Old Dominion Trail, adding steely greys and bright reds to a mural on each side of the bridge’s exterior.
The work depicts a modern Leesburg streetscape split by a vintage locomotive.
Boyle, who also owns The Fine Gallery in town and co-founded the annual Loudoun Arts Film Festival, is a central figure in a dynamic visual arts movement that’s changing the face of Loudoun.
“Public art humanizes structures and spaces that are otherwise forgotten, developing a stronger sense of community and belonging,” Boyle says.
Other murals that have become favorite backgrounds for selfies include the Welcome to Purcellville mural in downtown Purcellville, the iconic, interactive balloon mural at One Loudoun in Ashburn and the turquoise-colored Discover the Charm mural on Leesburg’s quiet Liberty Street depicting landmarks such as Tally Ho Theater and Carlheim Manor. In fact, Loudoun’s only Arts & Cultural District can be found in Leesburg.
Murals aren’t the only public art around Loudoun. As part of Virginia’s LOVEworks program, Lovettsville, Purcellville and Leesburg have LOVE sign sculptures including Mike Clay’s seven-foot-tall steel and used bicycle parts installation, which is across the street from ArtsPARK, a sculpture garden and trail in Leesburg’s scenic Raflo Park.
ART EVENTS
THE BYRNE GALLERY EXHIBITIONS: In the heart of Middleburg’s downtown district, this flagship fine art gallery has monthly exhibitions.
WESTERN LOUDOUN ART & STUDIO TOUR: This self-guided weekend tour in June directs you to the galleries and studios of leading local painters, potters, jewelers and artisans.
MIDDLEBURG FILM FESTIVAL: Taking place each fall, this intimate festival features Hollywood stars and Oscar buzz-worthy movies.
LOUDOUN ARTS FILM FESTIVAL: This 10-day art, music and drive-in indie film festival takes place across the county each September.
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