The City of Alexandria’s Office of the Arts is offering community organizations, businesses, and event organizers the chance to bring the Mobile Art Lab to your next event at no cost. This dynamic, art-filled vehicle delivers hands-on creative experiences straight to the community, transforming any gathering into a celebration of the arts.
The Mobile Art Lab engages your guests with free visual and performing arts activities, guided by talented artists, with both traditional and cutting-edge art supplies—all right at your event! Whether you're a community organization, business, or event organizer, this is your opportunity to infuse creativity, innovation, and color into your space.
Don’t miss out—apply now and make your event a masterpiece!
What Events Are Eligible?
The Mobile Art Lab is available for new and existing, indoor/outdoor, free-to-attend events and activities that are open to the public within the Alexandria city limits, including but not limited to:
✅ Public and community spaces (recreation centers, libraries, parks, and schools)
✅ Local businesses and neighborhood gatherings
✅ Special events and pop-ups
⚠️ Not eligible: Political rallies, fundraisers, commercial marketing, private parties, or events by special-interest groups. For questions about eligibility, email arts@alexandriava.gov.
What to Know Before Applying
- The Mobile Art Lab schedule is limited and may not be available for your event due to existing scheduling conflicts.
- Event organizers must comply with city permits (e.g., special event permits, parking, noise, or health permits) as required.
- The host site must accommodate the Mobile Art Lab vehicle (22' x 8' x 9'), including parking and space for the art activity.
How Requests Are Evaluated
Applications will be reviewed based on several goals including the following: date of event, anticipated audience, location, size, and logistics.
How to Apply
Complete the online application by Sunday, April 13 and provide:
- A description of the proposed engagement
- Event location and target audience details
- Estimated number of attendees and visibility potential
- Any potential partnerships, sponsorships, or host organization affiliations
Key Dates
Wednesday, March 12 - Application opens
Thursday, March 20 - Virtual information session (RSVP to the meeting here)
Sunday, April 13 - Application deadline
Monday, April 21 - Notifications sent to selected applicants
Questions? Email arts@alexandriava.gov or contact Jessica Sturgis, Event Coordinator, Events & Public Space Activations at Jessica.Sturgis@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.5407.
If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you. Please email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.
For reasonable disability accommodation, contact Daniel.Guzman@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.5419, Virginia Relay 711.