Workhouse Arts Center Celebrates Grand Opening of Nation’s Only Artist-Designed 18-Hole Masterpiece Mini-Golf Course with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on June 13th
LORTON, VA (May 30, 2025) – The Workhouse Arts Center will celebrate the grand opening of the nation’s only artist-designed, art history-themed 18-hole Masterpiece Mini-Golf course with a public ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 4:00pm on the Workhouse campus.
(photo credits: Dean McIntyre)
This imaginative, artist-designed course merges art history, creative fun, and interactive education in a completely new way. From Claude Monet to Picasso, and from Guerrilla Art to Pop Art, each hole pays tribute to a legendary artist or movement and includes interpretive signage that teaches players about the artist’s life and legacy—making every swing an opportunity for discovery.
Originally launched with nine holes in early May, the full course now includes 18 unique, hand-crafted holes designed by artists and builders from the Workhouse community. The project is believed to be the only art history-themed golf course in the country entirely designed by working artists.
Workhouse Resident Artist Tim Grant, who led the project, is known for his public mural work across Fairfax County RECenters. His dual background in studio arts and art history helped shape the educational and creative foundation of this one-of-a-kind attraction.
“I’ve always believed art should be both immersive and accessible,” said Grant. “This project gave us the chance to honor some of the greatest artists in history, while creating something that invites families, students, and the community to learn and play together. It’s education by way of joyful experience.”
The mini-golf course was built by a dedicated team of artists, designers, writers, and craftsmen who worked over several months to bring each hole to life using wood, paint, sculpture, and storytelling.
“This is hands-down one of the most innovative projects we’ve ever launched at the Workhouse,” said Keith Gordon, President & CEO of the Workhouse Arts Center. “Masterpiece Mini-Golf is a perfect reflection of what the Workhouse is all about—creative exploration, community engagement, and accessible arts education for all ages. It’s smart, it’s fun, and it’s totally unique.”
Elected officials, county leaders, and community partners are expected to join the Workhouse staff, artists, and supporters at the June 13 ceremony. The full course will open for public play immediately following the ribbon-cutting and will remain open throughout the summer and fall during Second Saturdays and select seasonal weekends.
Operating Hours:
The Masterpiece Mini-Golf course is currently open with 9 holes and will expand to a full 18-hole course immediately following the ribbon-cutting on June 13th. The course is open Wednesday to Saturday, 11am - 6pm, and Sunday, 11am - 5pm. It operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, so be sure to arrive early! The course will remain open throughout the summer and fall, during Second Saturdays and select seasonal weekends.For specific hours, pricing, and booking information, visit www.workhousearts.org/masterpiece-mini-golf
Bring the whole family and be among the first to experience the full 18-hole course! Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a fun outing, the Masterpiece Mini-Golf course offers something for everyone.
Follow us on Instagram @workhousearts and use #MasterpieceMiniGolf to share your visit!
Photo/Video Opportunities:
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will offer ample opportunities for photos and video coverage, including shots with community leaders, artist-designed holes in action, and families playing the course.
About the Masterpiece Mini-Golf Project
Masterpiece Mini-Golf Team Members
Tim Grant – Design, Art, Carpentry, Essay Content
Phil Charlwood – Technical Design, Carpentry
Mia Klavon – Artist, Carpenter, Tribute to Wyland
Gary Spellman – Artist, Carpenter, Tribute to Louise Nevelson
Tom Deevy – Carpenter
Bob Hackla – Carpenter
Ellen Silva – Essay Content
Contributing Artists & Tribute Holes
Jon Cane – Tribute to Salvador Dalí
Mary Kane – Tribute to Joan Mitchell
Lura Bovee – Tribute to Frida Kahlo
Wendy Anderson – Tribute to Paul Klee
Grant Baudoin – Tribute to Käthe Kollwitz
Jane Johnson – Tribute to Picasso
Artists Represented in the First Nine Holes
Claude Monet – French Impressionism
Banksy – Guerrilla Art
Roy Lichtenstein – Pop Art
Keith Haring – Pop Art
Michelangelo – Italian Renaissance
Piet Mondrian – De Stijl Art Movement
Louise Nevelson – Recycled Art
Wyland – Marine Art
Bridget Riley – Op Art
Frida Kahlo – Magical Realism
Joan Mitchell – Abstract Expressionism
Salvador Dalí – Surrealism
Picasso – Cubism / Mixed Media Art
Käthe Kollwitz – German Expressionism
About the Workhouse Arts Center
Located on the site of a former prison complex, the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the arts. Once a historic prison, the Workhouse is now a vibrant cultural hub offering gallery exhibitions, live performances, educational programs, and special events that inspire creativity and foster community engagement. The 55-acre campus features resident artist studios, gallery exhibitions, arts education programming, live performances, and experiential events that connect and inspire visitors of all ages. The Workhouse empowers artists, enriches lives, and drives positive social change while serving as a dynamic platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue.
Media Contact:
Nancy Hessler-Spruill
Director of Marketing
Workhouse Arts Center
Phone: (703) 785-0804
Email: nancyh@workhousearts.org
For press kit requests or media inquiries, please contact Nancy Hessler-Spruill directly.