Artomatic 2007 an enormous success

With hundreds of events, thousands of works of art and more than 31,500 visitors, Artomatic 2007 was an enormous success this spring.

The free event, which was held April 13 to May 20, transformed 90,000 square feet of a former office building into a major art attraction, with activities that included film screenings, book signings, poetry readings, workshops and dance, fire and musical performances. About 700 artists participated in Artomatic, showing their art, performing and volunteering their time.

“This was a great opportunity for artists, who sold their work, made new contacts and strengthened their ties to the local arts community,” said Sondra Arkin, president of Artomatic’s Board of Directors. “Artomatic 2007 was also a huge draw for area residents, who came out in droves to support the arts and just to have a lot of fun.”

Held four times previously since 1999, this year’s Artomatic was the first time the event has been held outside of the District Of Columbia. The 2007 venue, located in Crystal City, Arlington, Va., helped broaden the event’s audience and engage new artists, according to George Koch, chair of Artomatic.

“The location was ideal, and the residents and businesses were very supportive,” Koch said. “We are thankful to all of our volunteers and supporters, and we are especially grateful to the Crystal City Business Improvement District, which joined us as a partner for this year’s Artomatic.”

For a full list of supporters for Artomatic 2007, which included washingtonpost.com, Vornado/Charles E. Smith and the Crystal City Business Improvement District, visit www.artomatic.org/about/credits.

Organizers are now working on plans for the next Artomatic event, with dates and location to be determined. Ideas for the location of the next Artomatic can be submitted to Koch, who is heading the site selection team. Previous Artomatic sites have included a former museum, government offices and a home improvement store.

“We’re already brainstorming for the next event,” Koch said. “Artomatic will be back, and we may be coming to your neighborhood.”

For more information on Artomatic or to sign up for the Artomatic e-newsletter, visit www.artomatic.org.