Old Town Alexandria . . . Where my journey began
In 2009, my husband and I left California and embarked on a road trip across America to find a new place to settle. When we were near Washington D.C., we took a wrong turn and found ourselves in an enchanting historic district called Old Town Alexandria. It was love at first sight and we both agreed immediately that it would be our new home. The third floor of the 1789 Federal style building (left) is where we lived and I had my studio. My passion was always historic architecture and Old Town proved to be the perfect spot to re-launch my art career.
We lived in Old Town Alexandria for some years and I will always have a special attachment to this area. I loved being involved in the community and was honored to serve on the Alexandria Commission of the Arts. However my calling to create paintings of homes and historic buildings in all 50 states, led me away to further adventure. I have now documented this pen and watercolor journey across America with a recently released COFFEE TABLE BOOK and Old Town is well featured of course!
To capture the history and magic of Old Town, I have created a series of paintings depicting some of the most iconic homes and street scenes in this area. I wanted to share these with you and also give you the opportunity to buy prints of these paintings which are now available on my OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA ART STORE. I am also offering a 10% discount on this series for a limited time – simply use the code OTALCA10 at checkout.
See the paintings below. click on any of the images to take you TO the art store if you wish to purchase
Alexandria City Hall
Soon after the city of Alexandria was founded in 1749, construction on the Alexandria City Hall (below) began on a site that was also designated for a marketplace. When living in Old Town, I loved going to the Saturday Farmers’ Market, held year-round in the Town Hall Market Square plaza.
I created the painting below to commemorate “Spring for Alexandria,” an annual four-day celebration of giving and service in the city. If you look closely, you can see me presenting the painting to the Mayor of Alexandria in front of the brightly colored “Spring for Alexandria” backdrop I created, with the help of a team of enthusiastic young people.
Homes on the Potomac
This stretch of Federal style homes are located right on the Potomac River.
King Street Mile
One of my favorite stretches in Old Town Alexandria is the King Street Mile. I love the brick-lined sidewalks and fun boutique stores.
Smallest Home in Old Town
Not to be outdone by King Street, Queen Street is equally beloved. Often called Spite House, the tiny blue home in my painting below is just 7 feet wide and is said to be one of the narrowest homes in the USA! The space used to be an alley but was filled in to stop rowdy neighbors from using the thoroughfare.
St. Mary’s Church
The cornerstone of the Basilica of St. Mary (below) was laid in 1826, and it is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Commonwealth of Virginia. St. Mary’s is a well-known landmark in Old Town Alexandria, and one I was honored to paint!
Go to my art store to learn more about any of these paintings. You will also be given the option to purchase matted and framed versions of the prints. These images are also available as art gifts such as mugs, tote bags and even jigsaw puzzles! CLICK HERE TO VISIT MY OLD TOWN STORE!
As always, I love getting your feedback and don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions.
Cheers and happy summer!
Leisa
