Department of Parks and Recreation
ARTISPHERE
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Arlington's Arts Space for Everyone: Once in a Generation Opportunity
The proposed concept for the ARTISPHERE in Rosslyn combines the former Newseum space and the Rosslyn Spectrum as one jointly programmed, managed and marketed arts facility that will serve as a draw to Rosslyn, enliven the street life and complement the next generation of Rosslyn redevelopment while at the same time create a critical mass of space that offers Arlington an exciting and diverse mix of cultural programming. A 62,000 square foot cultural campus that also includes the existing Spectrum Theatre, ARTISPHERE will offer dozens of weekly events, ranging from community-specific and Heritage Arts events, to regular live bands in the 3,000 square foot ballroom. In addition to providing a showcase for national and international contemporary performing and visual artists, ARTISPHERE will house several well-known Arlington-based arts groups. The center also will house the visual arts exhibition program previously located at the Ellipse building in Ballston. It is scheduled to open on 10-10-10. ARTISPHERE is expected to have an estimated $10 million in annual economic impact, enhance street life in Rosslyn and attract an estimated 250,000 visitors annually. The Arlington County Board approved plans to transform the former Newseum site in Rosslyn into a cultural center on July 14, 2009. |  An Ode to Arlington's ARTISPHERE by Remy Munasifi - video |
Proposed TimelinePublic Hearing and County Board Vote: July 11, 2009 |  Watch ARTISPHERE (formally Cultural Center) meeting video |
Building out the Newseum into a Cultural Town Hall
These are ARTISPHERE proposed floor plans. Click on the floor plan image to view it larger in a PDF format.
 street level |  middle level |  top level |
County Objectives
Arlington County’s objectives for the ARTISPHERE project are to fulfill the original purpose of the Newseum space by providing a destination attraction in Rosslyn and to create a dynamic and diverse center to showcase the arts in Arlington. These objectives will be met in a highly cost–effective manner with up to a 20-year lease that includes 17+ years rent-free in a visible and accessible space in Rosslyn and through a business partnership with the Rosslyn Business Improvement Corporation.
Center Management
ARTISPHERE will initially be managed by Arlington County with support from a variety of non-profits, including the Rosslyn Business Improvement Corporation. The goal, however, is to create a nonprofit organization within three years and to transition the management of ARTISPHERE under appropriate terms and conditions to the nonprofit. By having a nonprofit ultimately manage ARTISPHERE, greater private sector support can be obtained to sustain and develop ARTISPHERE. What’s more, an independently run arts center will have the freedom and flexibility essential for effective operation and programming of a contemporary arts center.
Please contact us with additional questions or comments.
