The Definitive It List For Art & Culture In DC

Peep our four favorites for taking in world-renowned stars.

Linling Lu’s mezmerizing art will usher in the opening of the new Hemphill Fine Arts on K Street.

Hemphill
(434 K St. NW)

George Hemphill is making a move. After 15 years on 14th Street, his space moves to K—and, yes, it’ll have a street entrance for collectors to see and buy art from some of the finest contemporary artists in the world. The gallery now represents 25 artists and four artists’ estates; Hemphill’s team also provides private art consulting services to collectors and corporations.

Insider’s Tip When the gallery reopens in its new location this winter, Linling Lu will be front and center. The Baltimore-based artist has become a superstar.

The Reach at the Kennedy Center
(2700 F St. NW)

This new collaborative and performance space is a critical boon to the arts. We love the Moonshot Studio maker space and the Justice Forum, which buzzes weekly with big, heady discussions about the arts.

Insider’s Tip Jazzmeia Horn performs at The Reach Jan. 18. She became a household name after singing “Moanin’” during the 2018 Grammy Awards; she also won the Thelonious Monk International Vocal Jazz Competition.

Artist’s Proof Gallery
(1533 Wisconsin Ave. NW)

Owner Peggy Sparks has one of the best eyes for talent in DC. She shows contemporary artists like John Stango, Claire McArdle, Jean-Francois Debongnie and Kelly Towles.

Insider’s Tip Sparks curates for private residences and corporations; clients have
included TTR Sotheby’s and Columbia Square.

W Hotel Living Room
(515 15th St. NW)

This is where DC’s chic come to play amid gorgeous local art. The redesigned Living Room recently showcased DC muralists like Decoy and Gaia; the swanky hotel’s brain trust plans to host more locals throughout the winter and spring.

Insider’s Tip Grab a signature cocktail ($17) from the lobby-level 60-seat restaurant Cherry; we love the Hum of Bees (Charm City sweet blossom mead, element honeydew jalapeno shrub, Wild June gin, unfiltered raw wildflower honey). If you’re feeling intrepid this winter, try your hand at the winter-only curling court. Seriously.