The City of Alexandria’s Office of the Arts has engaged Cultural Planning Group (CPG) to develop a comprehensive, citywide cultural arts plan that shall define the role of the Office of the Arts in supporting, producing, defining, and sustaining arts and culture initiatives throughout the City to accomplish the City’s broader goals.

Public Art in Alexandria seeks to provide for future artistic endeavors and the promotion of Alexandria's cultural heritage, strengthen community pride, and foster tourism.  

Arts and culture not only enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors in a community - the creative economy is a vital element in building and sustaining unique and diverse communities.

From free workshops and lectures to art exhibits in public buildings, the Office of the Arts offers a wide variety of programs, workshops, and artist opportunities throughout the city.

Meet Alexandria's Mobile Art Lab - activating public space.

The role of the City's Poet Laureate is to promote appreciation of poetry as an art form; to encourage creative writing and reading of all forms of literature; and to promote literacy through poetry.  The Poet Laureate serves a three-year term.

DASHing Words in Motion! Poetry on DASH buses and Trolleys.  You are encouraged to ride the Alexandria Transit Company’s DASH buses and Trolleys in April and May to enjoy the poetry by local poets.  What a pleasant way to commute through Alexandria!

The role of the Arts Commission is to provide leadership in the development of a vibrant and sustainable arts community that engages audiences, and to encourage support and appreciation for the arts as a cornerstone of Alexandria's identity and cultural, social, and economic vitality. 

The Dr. Oswald Durant Memorial Center is the Department’s multicultural center for the performing and visual arts. It offers programs in music, dance, theatre, and visual arts for people of all ages and cultural backgrounds. The Durant Center is located in the Upper King Street neighborhood of Old Town and provides spaces for rehearsals, performances, special events, meetings, and arts focused classes.