Framebridge

As home to some of the finest museums in the world, it’s no secret that Washington, DC is an art lover’s city – but beyond the hallowed halls of DC’s Smithsonians there’s a vibrant community of artists and art sellers. Read about a few of our favorite places and events in Washington, DC to discover new artists and buy art begging to be framed and hung in your home!

1. Eastern Market

In the heart of Capitol Hill, Eastern Market is an ideal weekend destination for DC locals and visitors alike. Eastern Market promises an eclectic mix of local artists selling original art, collectors selling vintage maps and postcards, and vendors selling antique paintings.

Where: 225 Seventh Street, SE, Washington, DC  20003, website.

2. Crafty Bastards Arts & Crafts Fair

Celebrating it's 12th anniversary this year, Crafty Bastards Arts & Crafts Fair hosted by the Washington City Paper is an annual event featuring over 175+ vendors selling the best the indie craft community has to offer. Expect an awesome assortment of original art and charming prints at affordable prices you’ll be eager to frame.

When: Saturday, September 26th & Sunday, September 27th, 2015

Where: Union Market, 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, website.

3. Brookland Arts Walk

One of the newest destinations for artistically-inclined Washingtonians, the Monroe Street Market Arts Walk in Brookland has over twenty studio spaces where artists both create and sell their work from beautiful open-air studio spaces. Purchase a piece from one of the local artists (we love Matt Butler's prints) or pop in to paint your own canvas at ArtJamz. 

Where: 716 Monroe St NE, Washington, DC 20017, website.

4. First Friday Dupont

The first Friday of every month, Dupont Circle area galleries open their doors inviting Washingtonians to discover talented new and emerging artists and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. A few of our favorite participating galleries are Hillyer Art Space, Foundry Gallery, and Studio Gallery.

When: First Friday of every month from 6-8 pm. 

Where: Dupont Circle

5. National Gallery of Art Gallery Shops

The National Gallery of Art is home to one of the finest (and most vast!) collections of art in the world with a collection of paintings spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. After taking in the museum's breathtaking originals, head to the gift shop and take home a print of one of your favorites. Just think – a Monet masterpiece in your home for a lot less "monet".

Location: The National Gallery of Art is located on the National Mall between 3rd and 9th Streets NW along Constitution Avenue NW, website.

Elisabeth Hancock lives in Alexandria, VA and works at an education solutions company. She loves dogs and wine.

What did you frame and why is it special?

I framed an antique print of a pine cone. My dad's a forester, so I think of him each time I look at it.  

Why did you choose your specific frame style?

I picked Designer's Choice because I had such a hard time picking between two frames. I ended up going with the Providence because it's simple and elegant. I think the gold detail also really complements the colors in the print.  

Where is your final framed piece hanging?

I ended up hanging it on my gallery wall in my living room. It's the perfect addition!

What are you excited to frame next?

Carrie Holbo lives in Washington, DC; is a wedding and family/lifestyle photographer; loves coffee, wine, good, food and traveling – and any combination of the above.

What did you frame and why is it special?

I found this "C is for Camera" letterpress print by artist Susanna Davy (via Scoutmob) and had to have it. As a photographer, I love taking, displaying, and gifting photographs to my family and friends – so this print is a little nod to that.

Why did you choose your specific frame style?

I chose the Bali bamboo frame in black – I picked to coordinate with other frames I have planned for a gallery wall, and I love the subtlety of the bamboo texture and the slight hints of color under the black. I especially love the way it was mounted to show off the texture and edging of the paper.   Where is your final farmed piece hanging? 

Well, it will eventually be hung in my office, but I still have to paint the walls! I can't wait to hang it, though.  What are you excited to frame next?