My Growing Old Town Historic House Portrait Series

We're now settled into Old Town Alexandria and my series of historic homes is continuing to grow.  There are currently eight paintings in the series, as displayed here in my new studio in North Alfred Street Old Town.

Here is one of the latest in my project: The Faces and Homes of Historic Old Town Alexandria -- Connecting the Past with the Present.

This charming home at 217 South Columbus Street, Old Town Alexandria, was built in the early 1800's.

It's current owner is Amanda Washburn who purchased it in 1986. Amanda has lived in Alexandria for 30 years. A passionate supporter of Old Town preservation, Amanda is responsible for the vibrant colors of the house and for keeping it's historic fabric in tact.  Here's Amanda's statement as to why she loves Old Town: "Old Town exudes history.  It's also a true community. The houses are so authentic, they're priceless. And most of all I love my cobblestone drive!"

More to come....

Leisa

Moving into Old Town -- Day One

I'm so excited to be right in Old Town! Last night, after loading the last of our stuff in our wagon and arriving at our new home/studio to unload, my husband Bruce and I were looking for a reason NOT to have to start the ascent of two flights of narrow and somewhat slanting 200 year old stairs with endless loads of heavy boxes and art bags.  In Old Town we are quickly discovering there are wonderful diversions! Even though it was 9.30pm, we WALKED just 200 yards from the studio out on King Street and experienced the "nuevo Latino cuisine" of the Cafe Salsa.  Wonderful meal!  At that stage there was no further excuse and the last of our "work-out sessions" began.  

At midnight we collasped into our air bed (how do you get a real bed through the door?) Today I am putting order into the chaos! Right now it looks more like a train wreck. These are my BEFORE photos...

And so you can see that my whining about the stairs is justified, check this out. Now that is one narrow entrance!

          

In the morning we watched the sun rise (from bed) over an Old Town skyline. Awesome! At 7.30am I went into my studio and stood at my easel -- this is the view I saw! Now THAT is inspirational!  I'm dying to get at that empty canvas on my easel.... but I have my battle plan for the day and there will be no more deviations!

For now, it's back to work.

Leisa

My New Studio - Right in the Heart of Old Town Alexandria

Here it is, my new studio and our new home!  It's at 105 North Alfred Street, just half a block from King Street, Old Town's main drag.  The building is the now the home to St George Gallery, which specializes in beautiful hand made Ethiopian furniture and decor accessories.  The building is over 200 years old and has been granted a plaque by the Historic Alexandria Foundation for it's historic excellence. 

We have the top floor. Lots of light, high ceilings... perfect. I'm itching to start painting!
Leisa