My Art is Hanging in Alexandria Right Now

Big news — three of my pieces are up on the walls at Corcoran McEnearney's Alexandria office, as part of an initiative called "Art in Every Space." It still feels a little surreal to walk in and see them there.

Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins started the initiative. The idea was to bring local art into local businesses, not just galleries. Right now, 15 businesses across Alexandria are hosting artists, and I'm lucky enough to be one of them.

Standing next to one of my pieces at the launch.

The Launch Night

We had an opening reception at the office. Over 75 people came through — city officials, other artists, and neighbors who just wanted to see the work. Alexandria's Poet Laureate, Maria Cristina Donoso, read a poem for the occasion, and it gave me chills. My favorite part, though, was watching strangers stop in front of my work and actually take their time with it.

Meeting Mayor Alyia Gaskins at the reception.

What's on the Walls

I have three pieces in the show.

Morning Sunrise — a batik piece on Tussar silk, in warm oranges and gold.

"Morning Sunrise" — batik on Tussar silk.

Wandering Butterflies — one of my favorite pieces I've made.

"Wandering Butterflies," on display in the office hallway.

Standing next to it at the reception.

Forest Into the Wild — deep pinks and grays, inspired by walking through trees.

"Forest Into the Wild," with a guest taking a closer look.

Someone taking a closer look during the reception.

My work hangs alongside pieces by Robin Jordan, McKayla Dixon, Jodannah Pereira, and Trena Raines. We all have different styles, which makes the hallway fun to walk through.

The office hallway, now doubling as a gallery.

Come See It in Person

The show runs through September 30, at 109 S Pitt Street in Alexandria, during regular office hours. If you're in the area, come check it out. There's something fun about running into real art next to someone's office door.

With fellow artist Robin Jordan.

Thank you to everyone who came out, and to everyone who's been following Khadija Brand along the way. I hope there's a lot more of this to come.

See more of my work at khadijabrand.com, or find me on Instagram.