Events & Exhibitions at Workhouse
Current and Upcoming Events, Exhibitions, and More
“The Fun Room: Creatures and Fantasies” by Pamela Eisenmann I Whimsical Art Exhibit
Enter a world of whimsy and wonder in The Fun Room: Creatures and Fantasies by Pamela Eisenmann. This playful exhibit invites visitors into imagined realms filled with delightful creatures, bold colors, and joyful surprises.
My Favorite Things” by M. Jane Johnson I Retrospective Exhibit
In My Favorite Things, artist M. Jane Johnson offers an intimate retrospective of her most meaningful works—spanning three distinct styles and periods. On view at Workhouse Arts Center’s Building W-10 from May 7 to June 8, 2025, the exhibition reflects on creativity, resilience, and the enduring joy of painting.
Jesus Christ Superstar
Don’t miss Jesus Christ Superstar, the legendary rock opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, live on stage at Workhouse Arts Center. This powerful musical reimagines the final days of Jesus through a bold, high-energy performance. Shows run Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM through June 15, 2025.
MaNiiTo II'NiNiiWak- (Creative Power People) Creative Sovereignty: The Power of Indigenous Artists Exhibit
Join us for Maniito Iininiiwak: Creative Power, People, Creative Sovereignty, an exhibition highlighting the work of Indigenous artists at Workhouse Arts Center. This impactful showcase explores the creative sovereignty of Indigenous communities and celebrates the power of art in reclaiming cultural narratives.
“Light Transfixed” by David Barnes.
In Light Transfixed, artist David Barnes explores the interplay of light and glass in a stunning collection of kiln-formed fused and cast works. Spanning four decades of innovation and technique, this radiant exhibition will be on view at Workhouse Arts Center’s W-7 Gallery from June 1–30, 2025.
“Mixed State” by Claire R. Lynch I Abstract Sculptural Exhibit
Mixed State offers a compelling visual journey into the emotional fluctuations of bipolar disorder through abstract sculpture. This evocative exhibition invites viewers to reflect on mental health and emotional equilibrium, on view at Workhouse Arts Center’s W-6 Gallery from June 4–27, 2025.
“Routes” by Fernando Osorio I Abstract Art Exhibition
Explore Fernando Osorio’s "Routes," a striking collection of abstract paintings that blend line, shape, and spirit to reveal a personal visual language.
“Drawn to Travel” by Marni Maree I Sketchbook Art Exhibition
Join us for “Drawn to Travel,” an inspiring exhibition by Marni Maree showcasing sketchbook pages filled with colorful scenes from global adventures and local life.
“Myth to Reality” Art Exhibit by Kate Brogdon
Experience “Blurring the Line Between Memory and Myth,” a captivating series that transforms everyday portraits into mythic stories, inviting you to question how we see and remember.
InThrive Film Festival: Night 3
We'll watch several films that elevate the voices and talents of incarceration survivors. We'll wrap the evening with a discussion about the films or highlighting local folks impacted by the justice system.
Historic Campus Walking Tour
Explore the fascinating history and artistic transformation of the former Lorton prison during a Campus Walking Tour at Workhouse Arts Center. This guided tour offers a closer look at the site's historic architecture, its evolution into a thriving arts hub, and the artists who call it home.
Raku Firing on the Quad!
Get fired up to participate in the Raku firing process with ceramicist David Newquist! Normally, it takes days if not weeks to have a finished piece of pottery, but our Raku workshop will have you with a finished piece in one night!
SOUQ Social Markets
Join us on Friday, June 6, from 6–11 PM for SOUQ at the Workhouse Arts Center — a vibrant evening market celebrating Muslim culture, halal food, and local artistry. Discover unique vendors, connect with community, and explore inspiring works by Workhouse artists.
'Balance' Sound Bath with Iris McCray
Discover the hidden beauty that surrounds us in every moment with Seeking & Seeing Beauty, a sound bath experience at Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, VA. Through soothing frequencies from Crystal Singing Bowls, Harp, and Shofar, this session will guide you toward deep relaxation and spiritual harmony, allowing you to reconnect with the unseen beauty in your life.
Historic Campus Walking Tour
Walking tour of the historic former prison site that is the Workhouse Art Center campus.
Learning at Lunch: Pride in Prison
In the 91 years of operation, the experience of LGBTQ+ inmates would change dramatically through the years. Museum Coordinator Jay Loy discusses the complicated history of incarceration for LGBTQ+ people inside of the Lorton Prison to close out Pride Month at the Workhouse.
Fireworks & Summer Bash
Celebrate summer at the Workhouse Fireworks & Summer Bash on Saturday, June 28, 2025! This free community event features live bands, DJs, art-inspired mini-golf, games, food trucks, and a stunning fireworks finale. Secure your parking and VIP experience today!
SOUQ Social Markets
Celebrate community at SOUQ on Friday, July 11, from 6–11 PM at the Workhouse Arts Center. Enjoy a dynamic evening of halal food, shopping, and culture—plus kick things off with a scenic community run at 6:30 PM with @yallarunclubdmv. Discover local artists, support Muslim-owned businesses, and connect in a space full of energy and flavor.
Learning at Lunch: Troublemakers of the NWP
Join Susan Philpott from the National Park Service for an engaging discussion of the confrontational campaigns developed by Alice Paul, Lucy Burns, and the National Woman's Party in the fight for women's right to vote.
SOUQ Social Markets
Join us on Friday, August 1, from 6–11 PM for SOUQ at the Workhouse Arts Center — a lively evening market featuring halal cuisine, curated vendors, and rich cultural experiences. Explore the vibrant Muslim market, support Workhouse artists, and connect with community in one dynamic gathering space.
Learning at Lunch: The Smithsonian and Lorton
The Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum (ACM) has a long history of engagement with the Lorton Correctional Complex. Archivist Jennifer Morris shares information and examples from ACM’s collection.
SOUQ Social Markets
Join us on Friday, September 5, from 6–11 PM at the Workhouse Arts Center for SOUQ — the DMV’s vibrant Muslim market filled with halal food, local art, and dynamic cultural experiences. Shop unique vendors, discover the work of talented Workhouse artists, and celebrate community in an unforgettable evening of connection and culture.
SOUQ Social Markets
Join us on Friday, October 3, from 6–11 PM at the Workhouse Arts Center for SOUQ — an evening market where community, culture, and commerce come alive. Savor halal food, shop a curated selection of vendors, and support Workhouse artists as we celebrate the richness of the Muslim business community this fall.
Sip & Script at the Museum
In an age of keyboards and touchscreens, the beauty of traditional penmanship offers a unique connection to the past. Take this beginner’s class offered by Sip & Script to learn a modern take on calligraphy and lettering!
Historic Campus Walking Tour
Walking tour of the historic former prison site that is the Workhouse Art Center campus.
Workhouse Performing Arts Homecoming Concert
Don’t miss the Workhouse Performing Arts Homecoming Concert in Lorton, VA on June 1! Enjoy a night of music, dancing, and the 25/26 season reveal. General admission is pay-what-you-will or upgrade with a Theater Lover Table!
South County Pyramid Show Exhibit
Workhouse Arts Center is proud to present the South County Pyramid Show, featuring the work of over 100 kindergarten through 12th-grade students from six different schools in Fairfax, Virginia. The exhibit features student artwork created with a myriad of techniques and mediums. The Pyramid Art Show grants students the opportunity to share their artwork and artist accomplishments with their peers and the community, as well as to be inspired and inspire others.
Learning at Lunch: Pilot Substance Abuse Program
Take a break and expand your knowledge at the Learning at Lunch series at Workhouse Arts Center. Join us for insightful talks, workshops, and presentations that combine learning with a casual lunch experience. The Pilot Substance Abuse Program (PSAP) was a special drug rehabilitation program started by Dr. Jasper Ormond at the Lorton Correctional Complex in 1989. Photographer Lloyd Wolf documented the program intensively for over a year, recording images of the participating inmates.
Workhouse Classic: Fundraiser Golf Tournament
Support the arts and enjoy a round of golf at the Workhouse Arts Center Golf Tournament. Whether you're an experienced golfer or a beginner, this event is a fun way to connect with the community and contribute to the arts in Lorton, VA.
Historic Campus Walking Tour
Uncover the stories behind the walls of Workhouse Arts Center with a guided Campus Walking Tour]. Explore the site’s history as a former correctional facility, its unique architecture, and its transformation into a vibrant community for the arts in Lorton, Virginia.
2nd Saturday Open House & Art Walk
Join us on Saturday, May 10, from 6–9 PM at the Workhouse Arts Center for the 2nd Saturday Open House & Art Walk! Enjoy live music by Nick and the Razors, interactive art demos, a thrilling Treasure Hunt, Create & Sip workshops, and a lively Belly Dance Hafla celebrating World Belly Dance Day. With artist studio tours, delicious eats from Two Smooth Dudes, and drinks at the Workhouse Bar, it’s an unforgettable evening of creativity, culture, and community fun. Admission is free—don’t miss it!
Historic Campus Walking Tour
Explore the fascinating history and artistic transformation of the former Lorton prison during a Campus Walking Tour at Workhouse Arts Center. This guided tour offers a closer look at the site's historic architecture, its evolution into a thriving arts hub, and the artists who call it home.
West Springfield Pyramid Show Exhibit
The West Springfield Pyramid Art Show at Workhouse Arts Center features artwork by over 300 students from kindergarten to 6th grade across six elementary schools. This vibrant annual exhibit celebrates the imagination and creativity of young artists in the West Springfield school community.
Annual Congressional Art Competition
Workhouse Arts Center proudly hosts the 2025 Annual Congressional Art Competition, showcasing exceptional artwork from high school students in Virginia’s 11th District. This exhibition, presented in collaboration with Congressman Gerry Connolly’s office, highlights emerging youth talent and celebrates creativity in our community.
“Menagerie” Animal-Inspired Art Exhibit
Menagerie invites you into a vibrant exploration of the animal world through diverse artistic voices and mediums. This group exhibition, on view in Building W-5 at Workhouse Arts Center from May 7 through June 8, 2025, celebrates our connection to creatures great and small.
“Wanderjahr” by Joan Hutten I Woven Wall Exhibit
Wanderjahr is a tribute to the artist’s journey—the wandering path of exploration, quiet revelations, and the transformative beauty of getting lost in the process. On view at the Workhouse Arts Center in Building W-6 from May 7 through June 8, 2025.
SOUQ Social Markets
Join us on Friday, May 2, from 6–11 PM at the Workhouse Arts Center for an unforgettable evening at SOUQ, the DMV’s premier Muslim market. Dedicated to gathering and growing the vibrant Muslim business community, SOUQ offers an exciting mix of shopping, delicious halal cuisine, and rich cultural experiences — all in one dynamic space.
Start the evening with a special community run at 6:30 PM, hosted in partnership with @yallarunclubdmv, departing from the Workhouse and following the scenic nearby trails.
As you explore the marketplace, be sure to discover and support local Workhouse artists showcasing their work alongside a curated lineup of diverse vendors.
Whether you're here for the flavors, the finds, or the community connections, SOUQ is where it all comes together.
“May Flowers” by Sandi Martina I Glass Art Exhibit
Step into a glass garden in bloom at the Workhouse Arts Center. “May Flowers” by Sandi Martina showcases vibrant floral-inspired glassworks—both functional and sculptural—capturing the essence of spring and coastal memories. Don’t miss the opening reception on May 10 or your chance to visit Sandi’s studio in W-7!
Historic Campus Walking Tour
Walking tour of the historic former prison site that is the Workhouse Art Center campus.
Holi Techno Color Festival
Join us for the Holi Techno Color Festival on April 26 at Workhouse Arts Center! From 11 AM to 7 PM, enjoy vibrant colors, live music, dancing, tasty food, and activities for all ages. Tickets $5–$10.
World Thai Chi & Qigong Day
Experience the healing power of Tai Chi and Qigong with free demos and mini-classes at the Workhouse Arts Center. On Saturday, April 26 from 10 AM to 12 PM, explore movement, mindfulness, and relaxation in a beautiful setting—no experience needed!
'Seeking & Seeing Beauty' Sound Bath with Iris McCray
Discover the hidden beauty that surrounds us in every moment with Seeking & Seeing Beauty, a sound bath experience at Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, VA. Through soothing frequencies from Crystal Singing Bowls, Harp, and Shofar, this session will guide you toward deep relaxation and spiritual harmony, allowing you to reconnect with the unseen beauty in your life.
Learning at Lunch: Workhouse to ARC
The Lorton Prison Museum featuring the Lucy Burns Gallery at the Workhouse Arts Center is proud to present the third season of Learning at Lunch, a series illuminating aspects of the former prison’s 91-year history. Each month, we invite an expert to tackle a topic related to our complicated past.
Historic Campus Walking Tour
Walking tour of the historic former prison site that is the Workhouse Art Center campus.
“Art in Bloom” Open House & Art Walk
Join us for the Art in Bloom Open House & Art Walk at Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, VA! Experience live music, artist studio tours, interactive exhibits, and delicious food. This family-friendly event celebrates creativity and spring, with free admission for all!
Book Launch: “One Step Forward”
Book Launch for “One Step Forward” - a conversation between author Marcie Flinchum Atkins and playwright Alli Hartley-Kong.
Investigating Identity Exhibition
Workhouse Arts Center presents Investigating Identity, an exhibition featuring student artists from NOVA & GMU, exploring self-portraiture and identity through diverse materials. On view March 29 – May 3, 2025, with a public reception on April 12, 6–8 PM.
Appearance Exhibition
Workhouse Arts Center presents Appearance, an exhibition that challenges perceptions of identity, self-presentation, and representation. Visit in Lorton, VA, and explore this thought-provoking collection.
Learning at Lunch: Gamifying Women’s History
In honor of Women’s History month, board game designer Tory Brown joins us for a special iteration of Learning at Lunch. Brown designed the award-winning board game Votes for Women for Fort Circle Games that has been lauded by Smithsonian Magazine, NPR, and Vulture.
Annual Workhouse Ball
An exciting evening celebrating the arts and the vibrant community that makes the Workhouse Arts Center a cultural gem
Required Reading Exhibit
Required Reading provides a space for reflection and insight on text through explorations of the fragility of communication. The traditional writing tools including letterpress, typewriters, bookbinding, and embroidery merge with digital era symbols and laser-cut machinery to create powerful narratives that elevate text to new heights. On view now—don’t miss it!
'Choice of Choosing' Sound Bath with Iris McCray
Are your choices intentional or guided by habit? Choice of Choosing is a sound bath experience at Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, VA, designed to help you tap into subconscious patterns, release what no longer serves you, and embrace clarity in decision-making. Join us this March for an immersive journey.
Special Tour: Prison Reimagined
Special exhibition tour of Prison Reimagined with Janie Ritter from the Justice Arts Coalition.