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Creating A Vibrant Community Asset

An historic prison complex is transforming into a place of inspiration and promise for Fairfax County residents and the region as Lorton Arts Foundation moves forward in developing The Workhouse Arts Center At Lorton.

Through adaptive re-use and revitalization of a portion of the former D.C. Correctional Complex on Rt. 123 in Lorton, Virginia, The Workhouse will be reinvented as a 55-acre cultural arts campus that promises to be one of the most important creative communities in the country.

 

Restoring A 90-Year-Old Landmark

The Workhouse has significant value as a cultural and architectural landmark due to the historic operations of the former prison and its remarkable, period-representative buildings constructed by the prison inmates.

The natural splendor of this pastoral site along with the original buildings is being restored to preserve the area's heritage. Soon the bars and wire will be gone from the beautiful old brick cloistered archways, and the space will take on new life, emerging as a vibrant art, education and cultural center where self-expression and creative excellence are cherished and nurtured; a supportive environment where inspiration flows and important work can be produced.

Working From the Grass Roots Up

The Lorton Arts Foundation, Inc. (LAF), a Fairfax-based, 501(c)(3) corporation is anticipating delivery of a 99-year lease with renewal rights from Fairfax County to develop this unique community asset into an important arts destination. Plans for the campus include artist studios and galleries, events centers, a heritage museum, indoor and outdoor performances spaces, and garden habitats, as well as recreation, restaurant and entertainment facilities.

Help us realize this vision and breath new life into The Workhouse. Join the friends of the Workhouse by becoming one of our valued inmates, our core group of volunteers and supporters.

To make a donation of time or money, please contact LAF today.

Click here for a PDF copy of The Workhouse brochure.



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