Material Matters

Material Matters is an exhibition celebrating the fifty-year legacy of MoCA Arlington's Artist Studio Program, showcasing works by residency alumni whose studios at the museum date back as early as the 1980s. The show highlights the diverse artistic practices that have emerged from the program, which has been a center for experimentation since 1976. Alumni have gone on to exhibit nationally and internationally, and many now serve as educators and mentors. The exhibition focuses on materiality across installation, sculpture, painting, and mixed media, reflecting the experimental spirit of the residency. The works on view respond to defining historical, economic, and social events over the past five decades, including feminist issues, political events, displacement, and environmental concerns, encouraging close looking and discovery. The exhibition is organized by Amanda Jirón-Murphy, Curator and Residency Program Manager.

When: June 27 through September 13, 2026, during regular gallery hours.

Showtimes: The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM, and by appointment. A related opening event, Art After Hours, takes place Saturday, June 27 from 5 PM to 8 PM.

Tickets: Admission pricing is not specified; contact the museum for details.

Lineup: The exhibition includes work by Negar Ahkami, Shahla Arbabi, Roxana Geffen, Sarah Hardesty, Marissa Long, Danielle Mysliwiec, Ryan McCoy, Foon Sham, and Rachel Schmidt.

Venue: MoCA Arlington, 3550 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201. Accessible via the Orange and Silver Lines at Virginia Square Station, and by Metrobus line 24P or ART line 41.

Support: Generously supported by an Anonymous Donor, the 15th Street Foundation, Pamela Doty, the Georges Family Foundation, Penne and Brian Nelson, and Marsha Semmel, with additional support from Stefanie Fedor, Martha and David Foster, Marlene and Michael Harrison, and Holly Koons.

Note: This exhibition is presented during a milestone moment for the organization, celebrating both the history of the residency program and its ongoing role in supporting artists and strengthening the region’s creative community.