Arts Subcommittee

American Legion Post 139 is committed to using the arts as a vehicle for healing, storytelling, community engagement, and veteran connection. Through exhibitions, workshops, public art initiatives, and partnerships, the Post has begun establishing itself as a creative hub for veterans, military families, artists, and the broader Arlington community.

Our arts programming includes:

Exhibitions and Artist Showcases

Post 139 hosts recurring exhibitions that showcase the work of veteran artists and military family members. These exhibitions provide opportunities for artists to share their stories, engage with the public, and explore themes of service, identity, resilience, and community through creative expression. Signature events such as our Memorial Day Exhibition and our 105th Anniversary “Echoes of Service” are intended to become annual celebrations of veteran creativity and artistic achievement.

Arts-Based Healing and Creative Workshops

The Post supports hands-on arts programming designed to foster wellness, connection, and personal expression. Current and planned workshops include:

• Papermaking workshops
• Printmaking and mixed-media sessions
• Community art projects
• Creative writing and storytelling initiatives
• Artist talks and panel discussions
• Veteran-focused arts and wellness activities

These programs serve veterans of all artistic skill levels, from first-time participants to professional artists.

Community Partnerships

Post 139 actively collaborates with veteran and community organizations to expand access to creative opportunities. Existing and anticipated partnerships include:

• VA Community Living Centers (CLC)
• Department of Veterans Affairs programs
• Veteran service organizations
• Local schools and universities
• Community arts organizations
• Arlington County cultural partners

These collaborations bring arts programming directly to veterans and create meaningful opportunities for intergenerational and community engagement.

Public Art and Mural Projects

The Post has participated in and supported public art initiatives that strengthen community connections and honor veteran experiences. These efforts include:

• The Post 139 Mural, represents continued service and show our post as the gateway to the Nation’s Capitol
• The Mary’s Mile Memorial Mural Project, developed in partnership with Navy Federal Credit Union and community stakeholders
• Future public art installations celebrating service, remembrance, healing, and civic pride

Public art projects provide visible reminders of veteran contributions while enriching our local community’s cultural landscape.

Building an Arts Subcommittee

Looking ahead, American Legion Post 139 intends to establish an Arts Subcommittee dedicated to expanding and sustaining arts programming at the Post.

The Arts Subcommittee will work to:

• Develop annual exhibitions and cultural events
• Sponsor Post-specific art workshops and classes
• Support veteran artists and creative entrepreneurs
• Coordinate mural and public art projects
• Foster partnerships with regional arts and military organizations
• Secure funding, sponsorships, and grants for arts initiatives
• Promote arts-based healing and community engagement opportunities

Potential partners include:

• George Mason University Mason
• Arlington Arts organizations and cultural institutions
• Military installation art offices and galleries
• Regional museums and exhibition venues
• Veteran-focused arts nonprofits and advocacy groups
• Local businesses and corporate sponsors

Through these efforts, American Legion Post 139 seeks to become a regional leader in veteran arts programming, creating a welcoming environment where creativity, service, healing, and community come together.

Vision Statement

American Legion Post 139 believes that the arts can build community, foster healing, preserve stories of service, and create meaningful opportunities for veterans and military families. Through exhibitions, workshops, public art, and strategic partnerships, we aim to establish Post 139 as a vibrant center for veteran arts and cultural engagement in Northern Virginia.