Moonshot Studio
Moonshot Studio at the REACH is an open-ended, hands-on art-making space where visitors can explore creative projects at their own pace. The current activation, “My Art & My Ideals,” draws on President John F. Kennedy’s legacy, speeches, love of sailing, and ideals through projects involving portraiture, poetry, boat building, and flag design.
Visitors can reinterpret portraits of President Kennedy, Jackie Kennedy, or the moon landing with inspiration from Andy Warhol; turn words from Kennedy’s speeches into original poetry; construct and decorate a miniature boat; or design a pennant flag expressing a message to the world. Staff members introduce the projects and provide help as needed, while volunteers have supported the studio’s creative activities since 2019.
When: November 7–December 30, 2026, on the specific dates listed below. The page also describes the studio as generally open on Saturdays and Sundays, except for scheduled closures.
Showtimes: The studio is open from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on each listed date: Saturday, November 7; Sunday, November 8; Saturday, November 14; Sunday, November 15; Saturday, November 21; Sunday, November 22; Saturday, December 5; Sunday, December 6; Saturday, December 12; Sunday, December 13; Saturday, December 19; Sunday, December 20; Sunday, December 27; Monday, December 28; Tuesday, December 29; and Wednesday, December 30, 2026.
Activities: Make a presidential portrait, write poetry inspired by Kennedy’s speeches, build and decorate a mini-boat, or create a pennant flag based on Kennedy’s words and ideals. The portrait activity includes options featuring President Kennedy, Jackie Kennedy, or the moon landing and encourages visitors to experiment with Warhol-inspired approaches.
Run time: Projects are self-guided and self-paced. Many take approximately 60–90 minutes, allowing visitors to spend more time with the art-making process if they wish.
Ages: Recommended for visitors ages 5 and older.
Boat-building note: Because the mini-boat project requires additional time, visitors must begin building their boats before 3:45 p.m.
Venue: The REACH at the Kennedy Center.
Tickets: Price not available.
Accessibility: Visitors who need assistance or an accommodation can contact the Kennedy Center Office of Accessibility in advance at 202-416-8727 or access@kennedy-center.org.
Group visits: Field trips are available by request on Wednesdays through Fridays for groups of 25 or fewer.
Related at-home activities: The Moonshot@Home digital series extends the studio’s creative approach beyond the Kennedy Center with activities involving Kennedy-inspired pennants, portrait photography, and artistic collaboration. Its projects use commonly available materials and are designed for people of all ages.