ArtsEnvironmental

Alexandria Artist’s Water-Themed Exhibition on Display at Torpedo Factory

The work of artist sTo Len aims to educate the public about local waterways, including the Potomac River. (Zebra file photo)

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Alexandria Renew Enterprises (AlexRenew) welcomed its first Artist-in-Residence in September of 2019. Now the New York-based sTo Len, who grew up in Alexandria, is showcasing a new exhibition at the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

The purpose of “RENEWAL,” on display through Dec. 27, is to educate the public about the water recovery process with the idea that audiences will develop with a “personal connection to the [well-being] and sustainability of local water systems,” according to the press release. It provides a behind-the scenes look at what happens at AlexRenew through the eyes of an artist.

For inspiration, Len spent time with various AlexRenew scientists, engineers, and conservationists at local waterfront locations, including Hooffs Run and Oronoco Bay.

“RENEWAL documents the ways in which I have witnessed and been inspired by the water recovery process,” said Len. “This body of work showcases the imprints that I have collected along the way.”

Using a range of techniques, the artist captures imprints and impressions from pollution, bacteria, and other waste found in wastewater and local waterways.

The exhibition will expand soon with a water-themed radio show and a socially-distanced scavenger hunt called “SEEWATER.” The scavenger hunt is meant to raise awareness about the city’s sewer system, waterfront habits, and more.

The full photo scavenger hunt list is available at torpedofactory.org/renewal and contains 40 items for people to photograph and email to Len at [email protected] to be included in the exhibition.

“RENEWAL” can be found in Studio 13 at the Torpedo Factory Art Center at 105 N. Union Street.

People can visit Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m to 6 p.m. Capacity is limited to two people at a time inside Studio 13.

The Art Center asks that visitors comply with current Virginia Safer at Home guidelines, This includes mask-wearing, washing hands, and maintaining a distance of six feet from people outside of your household.

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Kevin Dauray

Kevin is Publisher's Assistant and Senior Editor with The Zebra Press. He has been working for Alexandria's "Good News" newspaper since 2019. A graduate of George Mason University, he earned a bachelor's in English with a concentration in Creative Writing. He also studied at the Columbia School of Broadcasting and holds a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University. He is an alumnus of T.C. Williams High School. Go Titans!

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