Exploring Belonging and Displacement: Karen Mahan’s Art Exhibit in Leesburg

In a cultural highlight for Loudoun County, the Art Advisory Committee is set to present “The Other Side of the Rainbow,” a solo exhibition by local artist Karen Mahan. From January 8 to February 2, 2024, Gallery One at the Loudoun County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street SE in Leesburg, will be transformed into a space where art and personal narratives intertwine.

Mahan’s work, deeply rooted in personal experiences and memories, explores the complex themes of displacement and the quest for belonging. Her unique perspective, influenced by Celtic spirituality and animism, invites viewers into worlds that are both unfamiliar and evocative. The exhibition features a collection of her recent paintings that delve into these themes, accompanied by miniature sculptures crafted from objects depicted in her artworks.

This exhibition is not just a display of artistic talent, but also a reflection of Loudoun County’s growing recognition of diverse artistic expressions. It represents the county’s ongoing commitment to support local artists and to enrich the cultural fabric of our community. The Loudoun County Art Advisory Committee, appointed by the Board of Supervisors, continues its mission to showcase local talent and maintain the county’s esteemed art collection.

Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to experience this unique exhibition during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. “The Other Side of the Rainbow” promises to be a journey through art that speaks to the universal human experiences of searching for a place to belong and finding beauty in new landscapes.