If PDA and public nudity are not on your agenda for Valentine’s Day, maybe they should be. Whether you’re flying solo this year or still chugging along with last year’s Valentine, art provides the perfect outlet to mingle with prospective partners or show your loved one that you can think outside the dinner and a dozen roses box. Romance is all about being creative, and for those who aren’t, these artful events have taken care of the hard part for you.
Museums may not be as conducive to public sexual encounters as the Lauinger stacks, but they are full of naked people. Watson Adventures, a tour company, takes advantage of Western art’s fascination with the human form this weekend with its “Naked at the Art Museum Scavenger Hunt.” Participants will be asked questions involving nudity, and will then head off in search of seductive Eves, bathing beauties, and shirtless horsemen. The tour commences at either the Smithsonian American Art Museum or the National Gallery, and extends to the National Portrait Gallery, where the scandalous secrets of presidents and other famous Americans will be revealed. No knowledge of art or nudity is required, though appreciation for both is a good prerequisite. Tickets are $22.50 and must be purchased in advance at watsonadventures.com.
For those still hopeful for a last minute date, gallery openings are a great way to mingle with local art lovers, creative dressers, and those who know that free wine tastes better. If you’ve given up on the Georgetown dating scene, head over to the University of the District of Columbia on Friday for their exhibit opening, “Public Display of Affection.” Twenty-two local, national, and international artists have been invited to display work on the theme of love, which promises a variety of interpretations in a number of mediums, from painting to bookmaking to glasswork. The opening reception will take place from 6-9 p.m. on Feb. 13 at UDC’s Gallery 42.
If neither of the above suits your fancy, try channeling the spontaneous romantic in you with Artomatic and The Pink Line Project’s “Luck of the Draw.” This weekend, residential buildings, courtyards, and parking lots on the Capitol Riverfront will be transformed into exhibition spaces with photo, sculpture, graffiti, live music, and DJs. Ideal for both music and art lovers, singles looking to branch out, or couples seeking an unconventional way to spend Valentine’s Day weekend won’t want to miss this one. The event will be held from 6-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 2-6 p.m. on Sunday. Artomatic takes place between L and K Streets, S.E., near the Navy Yard Metro. For more information, mosey on over to artomatic.org.
Get fascinated with Madeline’s human form at mreidy@staff.georgetownvoice.edu.
