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Central Library Holds Pickup Service Closing at 4pm Sunday and Closed Monday; Will reopen on Tuesday, January 26

Central Library’s Holds Pickup Service will close at 4 p.m. on Sunday, January 24 and will remain closed on Monday, January 25 after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19. This staff member did not have recent contact with the general public and there is no concern for exposure to library patrons.

As a precaution, Central Library will undergo a deep cleaning and sanitizing. Any items currently on the hold shelf and due to be picked up will be extended an extra day. Customer Service help via phone and online chat will remain available during all regularly scheduled hours. Central Library Holds Pickup Service will resume Tuesday, January 26.

Arlington Public Library works closely with the Arlington County Department of Public Health and will follow recommended procedures to protect the health of staff and patrons.

Library Calendar

Take and Make Craft Pickup at Central Library - Canceled

Holds

Holds due to be picked up Sunday, Jan. 24 and Monday, Jan 25 will be available on Tuesday, Jan. 26.

John Robinson: Taking a Stand

Join us for a new series of stories from the Center for Local History highlighting members of our community who made a difference in ways that helped shape our history and created positive change.

Their voices were not always loud, but what they said or did had a significant impact on our community.

John Robinson

John Robinson (1934-2010) was a dedicated community activist who chose to stay and work in the Green Valley neighborhood where he was born and grew up. He attended Howard University, served in the U.S. Army, and worked briefly with Martin Luther King. Inspired by King and his work, he founded and was director of the Dr. Marth Luther King Jr. Community Center in Green Valley for over 40 years.

A strong believer in equal rights for all, Robinson provided help to those in need whatever their race or age, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. The Center organized clothing and food drives, provided counseling on drug abuse and assistance for low-income people living in Green Valley, as well as other educational programs.

He was there for the community whether it involved drug-related issues, gang violence, or neighborhood conflicts, and his door was always open, sometimes even providing shelter for the homeless in the Center, especially during the winter.

For four decades, Robinson published the Green Valley News, often distributing it door-to-door himself, to help keep residents informed of events in this predominately African-American neighborhood.

John Robinson

Over the years Robinson was recognized for his many achievements from organizations such as the Northern Virginia Branch of the Washington Urban League, Arlington Branch of the NAACP, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and was a recipient of the William L. Winston Award, the highest honor bestowed by the Arlington County Bar Foundation. He was also instrumental in the planning of the Arlington County Action Program in the 1960s.

Robinson died in 2010 at age 75. In. 2020, the Arlington County Board officially named the town square in Green Valley the John Robinson, Jr. Town Square in his honor.

Rendered image of the John Robinson, Jr. Town Square

Do you have a question about this story, or a personal experience to share?

Use this form to send a message to the Center for Local History.

Edible Books: Cookie Bookie Contest Winners

Sugar, Spice and Oh That Book Looks Nice!

We loved seeing all the delicious creations - it was hard to choose the winners, as we adored so many!

Thanks to everyone who submitted, and who attended the virtual decorating programs with the folks at the library.

Best Creation: Kids Up to Grade 5

"The Very Hungry Catepillar" by Brahm

We had fun foraging through the fridge and pantry for this, but at the end, realized we were missing the pie. The McDonalds drive through came through with the apple pie “slice” assist!

Brahm, "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" - We had fun foraging through the fridge and pantry for this, but at the end, realized we were missing the pie. The McDonalds drive through came through with the apple pie “slice” assist!

Best Creation: Grade 6-12

"Jurassic Park" by Hunter

Jurassic Park was one of the first long books I read. I wanted to try to recreate a similar picture of what is on the cover of the copy that I own.

Hunter, "Jurassic Park" - Jurassic Park was one of the first long books I read. I wanted to try to recreate a similar picture of what is on the cover of the copy that I own.

Best Creation: Adult

"My Favorite Books!" by Adriana

My son is only 13 but he is an avid reader. When I told him about the edible book contest he was very excited. He couldn't choose just one book so we settled on FOUR of HIS favorite books and their iconic covers. In the end he didn't help much with making the actual cookies but he gave me a lot of support and encouragement while I was making these and he will definitely help me eat them!

Adriana, "My Favorite Books!" - My son is only 13 but he is an avid reader. When I told him about the edible book contest he was very excited. He couldn't choose just one book so we settled on FOUR of HIS favorite books and their iconic covers. In the end he didn't help much with making the actual cookies but he gave me a lot of support and encouragement while I was making these and he will definitely help me eat them!

Honorable Mention

"(Return of the) King Cake" by Maria

This is a Galette des Rois decorated with marzipan. The design is based on Houghton Mifflin 1999 edition cover of "The Ring Sets Out," the first part of the Fellowship of the Ring by JRR Tolkien. My title is a pun on the English name of the cake--King Cake--and the title of the final volume of the Lord of the Rings, Return of the King.

Maria, "(Return of the) King Cake" - This is a Galette des Rois decorated with marzipan. The design is based on Houghton Mifflin 1999 edition cover of "The Ring Sets Out," the first part of the Fellowship of the Ring by JRR Tolkien. My title is a pun on the English name of the cake--King Cake--and the title of the final volume of the Lord of the Rings, "Return of the King".

Check out these other scrumptious, bookish creations we loved!

I used this book to teach the alphabet (both in english and spanish), and the difference between majuscules and minuscules to my sons when they were toddlers. We always sang the text instead of simply reading it out loud. I also teach "Typography" as a GMU adjunct faculty, so I'm always surrounded by letters. I dream of having a home-based baking business (IG: @love_at_350).

Jessica, "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" - I used this book to teach the alphabet (both in english and spanish), and the difference between majuscules and minuscules to my sons when they were toddlers. We always sang the text instead of simply reading it out loud. I also teach "Typography" as a GMU adjunct faculty, so I'm always surrounded by letters. I dream of having a home-based baking business (IG: @love_at_350).

This edible book is based on the book The Big Field by Mike Lupica and I will tell you some things about how I made it. The grass I made by putting green gel icing on cardboard and sprinkling green sugar sprinkles on top. Then for the baselines I put white cookie icing along the baselines and pitchers mound and then sprinkled very crushed up graham cracker shards and let it dry. Then for the bases, pitchers mound and home plate, I cut marshmallows and shaped them to look like first, second, third base, home plate and the pitchers mound. Then, for the foul lines, I put white cookie icing on top of the grass to make it 3-D. For the foul poles, I used fettuccine pasta noodles and I cut it and put it in a marshmallow, and then I iced the marshmallow to the ground. Then for the fence I cut up a tortilla into strips and microwaved them for about 30 seconds. After that, I shaped them and iced them to the grass. Finally for the dugouts I broke gram crackers into squares and rectangles and iced them to the grass. Then I took a Hershey square and melted a half Hershey square to it using a warm plate to melt the chocolate and I did that on each side to make one bench. Then because it was too wide, I melted it so it was half the width. Then I put some more liquid chocolate on the cardboard and stuck the benches to it. I did the same process for the second one. For the fence behind home plate I used some leftover microwaved tortilla to make it and iced it to the cardboard. Finally for the baseball I rolled a mini marshmallow and put icing on it rolled it in red sprinkles. It is detached and it can roll around. This is how I made the field. Now I will tell you why I made a baseball field. So I chose the book the big field by Mike Lupica but it could really have been any of the Mike Lupica baseball books because he wrote a lot of them and I have read The Big Field and another one but the big Field is about a boy named Hutch who plays shortstop on his travel baseball team and his dad also played and he was about to be in the minors but they said he wasn’t good enough and that kind of broke his heart so he basically never played baseball with Houchin very much but part of its about really him trying to get his dad to play with him but it’s mostly about him playing baseball and the main setting is a baseball field so that’s why I thought that I should make a baseball field. Some of the baseball books that I know Mike Lupica has written are Heat, The Big Field, The Bat Boy, Strike Zone, and Team Players. I hope you enjoyed this and happy judging!

Loren, "Baseball Field" - This edible book is based on the book "The Big Field" by Mike Lupica and I will tell you some things about how I made it. The grass I made by putting green gel icing on cardboard and sprinkling green sugar sprinkles on top. Then for the baselines I put white cookie icing along the baselines and pitchers mound and then sprinkled very crushed up graham cracker shards and let it dry. Then for the bases, pitchers mound and home plate, I cut marshmallows and shaped them to look like first, second, third base, home plate and the pitchers mound. Then, for the foul lines, I put white cookie icing on top of the grass to make it 3-D. For the foul poles, I used fettuccine pasta noodles and I cut it and put it in a marshmallow, and then I iced the marshmallow to the ground. Then for the fence I cut up a tortilla into strips and microwaved them for about 30 seconds. After that, I shaped them and iced them to the grass. Finally for the dugouts I broke gram crackers into squares and rectangles and iced them to the grass. Then I took a Hershey square and melted a half Hershey square to it using a warm plate to melt the chocolate and I did that on each side to make one bench. Then because it was too wide, I melted it so it was half the width. Then I put some more liquid chocolate on the cardboard and stuck the benches to it. I did the same process for the second one. For the fence behind home plate I used some leftover microwaved tortilla to make it and iced it to the cardboard. Finally for the baseball I rolled a mini marshmallow and put icing on it rolled it in red sprinkles. It is detached and it can roll around. This is how I made the field. Now I will tell you why I made a baseball field. So I chose the book the big field by Mike Lupica but it could really have been any of the Mike Lupica baseball books because he wrote a lot of them and I have read The Big Field and another one but the big Field is about a boy named Hutch who plays shortstop on his travel baseball team and his dad also played and he was about to be in the minors but they said he wasn’t good enough and that kind of broke his heart so he basically never played baseball with Houchin very much but part of its about really him trying to get his dad to play with him but it’s mostly about him playing baseball and the main setting is a baseball field so that’s why I thought that I should make a baseball field. Some of the baseball books that I know Mike Lupica has written are Heat, The Big Field, The Bat Boy, Strike Zone, and Team Players. I hope you enjoyed this and happy judging!

I love TWINS because they are twin sisters who, at first, are really close, then one runs for school president (like I want to one day!). The other runs against her. They become really angry and mad at each other. At the end, they talked and became inseparable again. My older sister and I fight a lot, but I always love her.

Mila, "Twins: A Graphic Novel" - I love TWINS because they are twin sisters who, at first, are really close, then one runs for school president (like I want to one day!). The other runs against her. They become really angry and mad at each other. At the end, they talked and became inseparable again. My older sister and I fight a lot, but I always love her.

I’ve always loved David Wiesner’s wonderfully illustrated picture books and my daughter loves every story about the three little pigs. I thought it would be fun to do an edible spoof on Wiesner’s version, The Three Pigs, in which the pigs change into a different style of illustration when they step out of their story.

Kelley, "3 Little Pigs" - I’ve always loved David Wiesner’s wonderfully illustrated picture books and my daughter loves every story about the three little pigs. I thought it would be fun to do an edible spoof on Wiesner’s version, The Three Pigs, in which the pigs change into a different style of illustration when they step out of their story.

Nicholas & Maria, "The Very Hungary Caterpillar" - This little donut caterpillar just make us so hungry!

This gingerbread is a tribute to the book Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi. In Gingerbread, Harriet makes gingerbread. She is from the country of Druhástrana. Reading the book made me want to eat gingerbread, so I'm glad that could come to fruition!

Nikki, "Druhástrana" - This gingerbread is a tribute to the book Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi. In Gingerbread, Harriet makes gingerbread. She is from the country of Druhástrana. Reading the book made me want to eat gingerbread, so I'm glad that could come to fruition!

Writers & Lovers, by Lily King, was my favorite book I read this year. Like many of us, I struggled with reading throughout the spring, but hit a better stride over the summer, when I read this book. Geese play a role in the book (which I will not spoil), and this is my tribute to them. May we all take flight in 2021!

Amanda, "The Geese (aka minor characters in Writers & Lovers)" - Writers & Lovers, by Lily King, was my favorite book I read this year. Like many of us, I struggled with reading throughout the spring, but hit a better stride over the summer, when I read this book. Geese play a role in the book (which I will not spoil), and this is my tribute to them. May we all take flight in 2021!

Reginald Von Hoobie-Doobie knows dinosaurs are extinct - and tries desperately to convince everyone in town. Despite his railing against the darling Edwina for page after page, she bakes him cookies and listens patiently to his excellent arguments. SHE LISTENS. Suddenly, those arguments seem meaningless. Edwina is free to continue living her best dinosaur life and an unshackled Reginald can tilt at new windmills. An important reminder at the power and gift of just being heard.

Rachael, "Edwina, the Dinosaur Who Didn't Know She Was Extinct" - Reginald Von Hoobie-Doobie knows dinosaurs are extinct - and tries desperately to convince everyone in town. Despite his railing against the darling Edwina for page after page, she bakes him cookies and listens patiently to his excellent arguments. SHE LISTENS. Suddenly, those arguments seem meaningless. Edwina is free to continue living her best dinosaur life and an unshackled Reginald can tilt at new windmills. An important reminder at the power and gift of just being heard.

Bronson, "Walden" - Thank you for the opportunity to combine a seasonal treat with one of my most loved books.

Keira, "Arnie the Doughnut"

My entry for the Arlington Library’s 2020 edible books contest is inspired by “The Last Leaf”, a short story by O. Henry. The story is set against the backdrop of a pneumonia epidemic in Greenwich Village in the early 1900s. Briefly, it is the story of a failed old painter who sacrifices his own life, in order to gift his young female neighbor dying from pneumonia, the urge to continue living. This simple but elegant tale published more than a century ago, offers in these tough times, a powerful and fitting reminder of the redemptive powers of altruistic kindness, hope, and renewed resolve in the face of adversity.

Sucharitha, "The Last Leaf by O. Henry" - My entry for the Arlington Library’s 2020 edible books contest is inspired by “The Last Leaf”, a short story by O. Henry. The story is set against the backdrop of a pneumonia epidemic in Greenwich Village in the early 1900s. Briefly, it is the story of a failed old painter who sacrifices his own life, in order to gift his young female neighbor dying from pneumonia, the urge to continue living. This simple but elegant tale published more than a century ago, offers in these tough times, a powerful and fitting reminder of the redemptive powers of altruistic kindness, hope, and renewed resolve in the face of adversity.

Gabriel, "Harry Potter"

Anne, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" - Inspired by my 3-year-old's newfound love of the Grinch!

See upcoming programs for all ages on the library's event page.

Video: Multiracial Coalitions in the Civil Rights Era

The Poor People’s Campaign, held in Washington, D.C., during the spring of 1968, has long been overshadowed by the assassination of its architect, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and the political turmoil of that year.

But while the campaign did not achieve its lofty goals — including a rededication to the War on Poverty and an end to rampant police brutality — it did prove to be an illustrative moment of a “long” civil rights movement that highlighted the essential yet oft-forgotten objective of economic justice and everything that entailed. This multiracial campaign also shed lights on the interdependent relationship between racial identity and political coalition among African Americans and Mexican Americans. While the fight against poverty held great potential for Black-Latino cooperation, such efforts also exposed the complex dynamics between the nation’s two largest minority groups.

Presenter Gordon K. Mantler is Executive Director of the University Writing Program and Associate Professor of Writing and of History at the George Washington University. Mantler has taught writing and history since 2006 at GW, Duke University, and Guilford College in North Carolina. Since 1999, Mantler has specialized in the history and rhetoric of 20th century social justice movements and the African American and Latino experience in the United States, as well as public, oral, and film history. He has received numerous awards and grants, including financial support from the Mellon Foundation, the American Council of Learned Societies, the Black Metropolis Research Consortium, and the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library.

Notes on the Arlington Symphony

Between 1945 and 2005, Arlington County was home to the renowned Arlington Symphony, organized and maintained as a volunteer effort by members of the community.

Over its 60-year run, the symphony performed a wide variety of music across the County and was one of Arlington's first, and longest-running, arts organizations.

Excerpt from the Washington Post’s 40th-anniversary feature on the Arlington Symphony. Image courtesy of the Washington Post.

First Movement

The Arlington Symphony was organized in the years following World War II, providing a source of respite from the turmoil of the wartime years.

Van Lier Lanning – an Arlington resident – was the leader of these initial organizing efforts. Lanning had also organized and directed the War Production Board orchestra during WWII. Lanning’s vision was to establish a suburban orchestra. This dream materialized in late 1945 as local citizens began to sign on to establish what was called a “civic orchestra.”

A volunteer group of Arlingtonians formed a Steering Committee and recruited players, who also chipped in $10 apiece for the purchase of sheet music. Ellis Chasens, former concertmaster of the War Production Board Orchestra, signed on as the Arlington Symphony’s first concertmaster.

Opening Night

Program excerpts from the Arlington Symphony’s first concert on April 3, 1946.

The premiere concert took place on Friday, April 3, 1946, at Washington-Lee High School (now Washington-Liberty). This opening night featured baritone soloist Paul Hume, who went on to serve as the Washington Post’s music critic. The evening was a resounding success, and a second performance followed the next evening. Another performance in June followed, and by fall 1946, plans for a full program were underway.

A program of eight concerts was approved for the following year: four of them would be evening, adults-only, concerts and four would be Sunday afternoon children’s concerts, followed by performances of a youth orchestra. This set the pattern for the orchestra’s early schedules.

Tickets in this first program year were 75 cents for the adult concerts and 30 cents for the children’s concerts. From 1951-1968, programming was free, but tickets were reinstated in later years to accommodate for budgeting gaps.

Numerous conductors served in these early years, but by the 1954-1955 season, the position went unoccupied due to insufficient funds for the part-time work. Later that year, John Wigent signed on to the job. Wigent, a trained clarinetist and double bassist, had previously served as Harry Truman’s pianist and as an organ player at the Arlington Temple in Rosslyn. Karl Rucht signed on as the next director, where he served for more than 15 years. Rucht was known for his drama, flare, and “spectaculars” – including full concert versions of operas, special soloists, and concerts with more than 300 performers on stage.

Karl Rucht, the Arlington Symphony’s Music Director from 1960-1985.

Style and Substance

One of the Symphony’s signature elements was solo performers, who were featured in the hundreds over the course of the symphony’s seasons. The soloist program was not only a chance to highlight talent, but it also broadened the scope of the Symphony, as they included performers from across the nation and abroad. One of the Symphony’s most popular soloists was Evelyn Swartout, who performed four consecutive years in a row.

The soloist program was also a way to incorporate younger members of the Arlington community, who were sometimes selected from the Association’s scholarship program. In the 1940s, public education in music was limited, and the Symphony filled this gap with its musical programming, even as the move toward public music courses increased in later decades.

Organization and Funding

The Symphony Association, County government, and other civic and social groups often worked together to help support the group’s artistic efforts. Spaces for rehearsals and concerts were provided by the School Board for no or reduced fees, and in 1966, members of the Association met with County Manager Bert Johnson, who provided $3,600 in funding from the County budget. This arrangement lasted for much of the symphony’s lifetime, increasing over the years due to inflation. Other fees were supplemented by Association fundraising and external grants.

The Association’s Board of Directors was incorporated in 1966 and consisted of 26 to 30 members. The group was augmented and supported by a Women’s Committee for the Symphony, as well, which consisted of 114 members by 1980.

Music preference poll sent out by the Arlington Civic Symphony Association in April 1961.

In 1980, March was designated as “Arlington Symphony Month” by the Arlington County Board.

In 1985, the Arlington Symphony celebrated its 40th anniversary – among its members that season was a 40-year veteran of the symphony, Caurine Easterling. A write-up on the event in the Washington Post notes the symphony’s range of ages – from teenagers to octogenarians – and also notes that this was the final season Karl Rucht served as musical director.

Photo of the Arlington Symphony, from “The Story of the Arlington Symphony Association: Trials and Triumphs of a Volunteer Effort,” published in 1980.

Final Act

The Arlington Symphony came to a close in 2005 after declaring bankruptcy. Its final music director was Ruben Vartanyan, who served with the symphony for 13 years. In 2006, a group of former Symphony members joined together as the Arlington Philharmonic, and Vartanyan directed the new group’s inaugural concert, leading a performance of Tchaikovsky's Serenade for Strings, Op. 48.

Arlington is still home to the Arlington Philharmonic, as well as the Arlington Concert Band and many other classically-focused musical groups and other musical organizations.

Program for a 1983 Youth Scholarship Concert held by the Arlington Symphony.

Advertisement for the Arlington Symphony’s 1999 “Swing into Summer” benefit concert.

Want to learn more? Arlington’s Center for Local History holds records of the Arlington Symphony in RG 54, and documents related to the Arlington Symphony are also available in RG 57, the personal papers of Hugh Johnson, who served as one of the Symphony’s presidents.

CLH also has an oral history interview in its collections with Theodore and Jean Taylor, where the couple describes the early days of the symphony and their involvement in the group, including Jean Taylor’s role as president of the Women’s Committee.

To learn more about Arlington's history, visit the Center for Local History on the first floor of the Central Library.

Do you have a question about this story, or a personal experience to share?

Use this form to send a message to the Center for Local History.

Great Books You Might Have Missed in 2020

Have You Read These Books?

Sadly, this year left little time or opportunity for browsing the shelves... So we've created a new kind of year end book list!

These are our recommendations for 2020's well-reviewed books - the ones that might have flown under your radar.
For a complete list of the most checked out books in 2020, read our Top Books of 2020 blog post.

The Top Books of 2020

The Books That Made Us Think and Feel This Year

Books helped Arlington readers feel a little more normal this year.

In the words of skilled writers we sought safe spaces in a year of unpredictability. We embraced calm in a year of upheaval and reached for learning in a year of strife. And we found company in a year of solitude.

These are the books Arlington readers turned to the most in 2020. Unsurprisingly, many top fiction titles were part of a series, and many top nonfiction titles reflect a yearning for social justice and a desire for human connection.
Looking for something new? We also put together lists of well-reviewed books that might have flown under your radar in 2020.

2020 Year End Reflection

Season's Greetings from All of Us!

So much in 2020 has changed...

From the way we operate, to how we check out print books, to moving all our events to a virtual environment.

What hasn’t changed...

Is our shared passion for reading, learning, and curiosity.

Our belief in free and open access to knowledge and opportunity for all.

Our tireless dedication to:

Bringing you the books you love, in every format
Filming fun storytimes for our new YouTube For Kids channel
Planning exciting new author events
Connecting with you by text and chat, or during online book club meetings and workshops

The staff at Arlington Public Library misses you and will see you all in 2021. We wish you a joyful holiday season and a wonderful New Year.

Watch the Video on YouTube

Interested in reading one of the books included in the video? Check out our "End of Year Video" booklist to get a copy.

Leonard “Doc” Muse: Taking a Stand

Join us for a new series of stories from the Center for Local History highlighting members of our community who made a difference in ways that helped shape our history and created positive change.

Their voices were not always loud, but what they said or did had a significant impact on our community.

Leonard “Doc” Muse

Leonard “Doc” Muse (1923-2017), was an African-American pharmacist and social activist, and the owner of Green Valley Pharmacy, a neighborhood institution whose importance extended far beyond that of a typical pharmacy.

Memorial program for Dr. Leonard Muse, 8/26/2017

Muse was born in Florida, served in World War II, and then used his GI benefits to attend the Howard University School of Pharmacy. In 1952, along with partner Waverly Jones, he purchased the property which was formerly Hyman’s Grocery, and opened the Green Valley Pharmacy. In addition to being a drug store and filling prescriptions for the neighborhood, it functioned as a gathering place featuring a lunch counter which provided free meals every Wednesday afternoon and on occasion providing free prescriptions for those unable to afford them.

With this role in the community came the challenge of dealing with myriad interests and pressures, but Muse negotiated these rough waters with determination and skill.

Green Valley Pharmacy

In an oral history conducted by the Center for Local History, when asked about his motivation to become a pharmacist, Muse said:

“Oh, it’s a long story. I was a kid, and the lady next door…asked me to go and get a prescription filled for her…I got there, I was tired, and I went to sit down, and that guy told me, “You can’t sit here.” So I went out and sat on the sidewalk until they filled the prescription. And I had the idea, I said, well, we need a pharmacy where we can sit wherever we want to –“.

Green Valley Pharmacy was named as a Historic Landmark by the Arlington County Board in 2013, and Muse received a Community Appreciation Award from the Arlington NAACP, and continuing to work and be a constant presence until his death in 2017.

Green Valley Pharmacy 2008

Do you have a question about this story, or a personal experience to share?

Use this form to send a message to the Center for Local History.

The Best of Quaranzine

Hats Off to Our Quaranzine Community

We began Quaranzine toward the beginning of Covid-19, which marked the most dynamic shift in our collective lives within recent memory.

The call was simple: Show us how you're responding to the world right now.

The responses came pouring in, and we built a collection of works that displayed the warmth, creativity, diversity, and innovation that we've come to expect and cherish about our community.

Here we celebrate Quaranzine by revisiting some of our favorite entries, with deep thanks to everyone who took part in this experiment. We've all changed so much this year, and the joy in sharing what we can with each other is immeasurable.

We hope this finds you all warm, safe, and finding creativity in new ways.

Photo of street diorama with rubber rats holding signs in Old Town Alexandria.

Alex Zealand, "Rats for Social Distancing" - Street diorama with rubber rats holding signs. Photographed in Old Town Alexandria.

I like to research and find out more when I'm anxious and feel I don't have control. Questions like, have we gone through something like this in the past? The answer is always yes, in a way. Plague Doctors look scary, but I encourage you to look closer; they were doctors. They were there on the front lines to diagnose and help. The beak of the mask was filled with flowers and herbs often thought to chase away the bad smells of disease. The stick or cane was used for social distancing and for examining. The round hat was the symbol of a doctor at this time. Of course, this was before germ theory. I wanted to draw and play with ink to get my mind off of our current situation, but still remember that we have survived.

Brit Austin, "The Doctor" - I like to research and find out more when I'm anxious and feel I don't have control. Questions like, have we gone through something like this in the past? The answer is always yes, in a way. Plague Doctors look scary, but I encourage you to look closer; they were doctors. They were there on the front lines to diagnose and help. The beak of the mask was filled with flowers and herbs often thought to chase away the bad smells of disease. The stick or cane was used for social distancing and for examining. The round hat was the symbol of a doctor at this time. Of course, this was before germ theory. I wanted to draw and play with ink to get my mind off of our current situation, but still remember that we have survived.

Carved face yawning, or screaming, with ivy growing around it.

Maria Lauron, "Ivy Face" (editor's note: #mood)

I've decided to start making daily sketches of things in & around my home. This was my first sketch (3/29/2020) and I hope to continue this practice until this pandemic passes.

Janelle Ortiz, "Pothos Sketch" - I've decided to start making daily sketches of things in & around my home. This was my first sketch (3/29/2020) and I hope to continue this practice until this pandemic passes.

Patricia Loverich, "Happy Birthday James" -A neighborhood birthday party in the time of coronavirus.

Amari Eaglin, "Wake Me Up When Corona Ends" -Portrait of a young woman in physical isolation watching tv and waiting for Corona to end.

Barry Dunn, "Cabin Fever" - Looking through the bars of the prison.

A sweet neighbor made chalk photo stations, a maze and an obstacle course for children to enjoy on their daily walk outside.

Beckie DiPasquale, "Sidewalk Angel" - A sweet neighbor made chalk photo stations, a maze and an obstacle course for children to enjoy on their daily walk outside.

Bekah Richards, "The Poets Are Stranded" - Blackout poetry/collage: "A map of miracles, prayers as dark as ink, the poets are stranded."

As I'm generally a home-body, I've been opting for using all this down time to make things that bring me joy! Chocolate muffins *oven bings*, crochet projects, drawing, these doodles, etc. I've found myself saying... I was made for this! But then I realized the gender stereotype that "a woman's place is in the home" (which is sexist). While recognizing the gender stereotypes that lead me to my hobbies, I'm reclaiming my space in the home as a person who likes to be there--I mean look at the picture, I'm really am taking up the whole living room. Have a nice walk husband, I'll try that some day!

Brooke Lacock-Nisly, "Many Ways of Coping" - As I'm generally a home-body, I've been opting for using all this down time to make things that bring me joy! Chocolate muffins *oven bings*, crochet projects, drawing, these doodles, etc. I've found myself saying... I was made for this! But then I realized the gender stereotype that "a woman's place is in the home" (which is sexist). While recognizing the gender stereotypes that lead me to my hobbies, I'm reclaiming my space in the home as a person who likes to be there--I mean look at the picture, I'm really am taking up the whole living room. Have a nice walk husband, I'll try that some day!

I keep a daily sketchbook of things I encounter when I'm out and about each day. With outside trips severely limited these days, I have been looking inside for inspiration. This practice has helped me reconfigure what "doing something" looks like and what the markers of a "productive day" might be.

Brooke Stoneman, "Inside Home" - I keep a daily sketchbook of things I encounter when I'm out and about each day. With outside trips severely limited these days, I have been looking inside for inspiration. This practice has helped me reconfigure what "doing something" looks like and what the markers of a "productive day" might be.

Don Rubin, "Around Here" - Acrylic on paper, 24x24

This 11x14” acrylic painting is based on a sunset photo taken by a friend on his sailboat while sailing on the Potomac before the Stay-at-home order. It reminds me to treasure the freedom we still have to explore in nature.

Alanna Rivera, "Potomac River Sunset" - This 11x14” acrylic painting is based on a sunset photo taken by a friend on his sailboat while sailing on the Potomac before the Stay-at-home order. It reminds me to treasure the freedom we still have to explore in nature.

I am a seasonal allergy sufferer. As spring arrived early this year in the DC area, there have been a number of mornings that I've woken up with symptoms that could either be allergies or the Coronavirus. The attached comic was inspired by this conundrum.

Erika Johnson, "Coronavirus and Allergies" - I am a seasonal allergy sufferer. As spring arrived early this year in the DC area, there have been a number of mornings that I've woken up with symptoms that could either be allergies or the Coronavirus. The attached comic was inspired by this conundrum.

I wrote a poem to express what's keeping me going. It's you, it's me, it's us. What gets me though is knowing that we're in this together, to help us get through. Thank you for putting this project together. It's quite heartwarming.

Devin Boyle, "Keeping On" - I wrote a poem to express what's keeping me going. It's you, it's me, it's us. What gets me though is knowing that we're in this together, to help us get through. Thank you for putting this project together. It's quite heartwarming.

We are all hyper-aware of hand washing, face touching and physical distancing these days. Doing something that would have been relaxing pre-COVID-19, like a massage, now feels threatening. Made with collaged elements including a withdrawn sticker from an old library book, updated with a new stamp date; found images; painted paper; and fingerprints from a stamp pad, pressed three times to represent the decrease in virulence on surfaces over the course of days.

Molly McCracken, "Try to Relax" - We are all hyper-aware of hand washing, face touching and physical distancing these days. Doing something that would have been relaxing pre-COVID-19, like a massage, now feels threatening. Made with collaged elements including a withdrawn sticker from an old library book, updated with a new stamp date; found images; painted paper; and fingerprints from a stamp pad, pressed three times to represent the decrease in virulence on surfaces over the course of days.

Mixed media on wood: acrylic paint, metallic paint, tarot cards, sharpie pen, stamps 12"" X 24" The turning point of a disease when an important change takes place, indicating either recovery or death; physically, economically, leadership, organizational misdeeds . Now, in this age of Covid 19, is a crisis point of history. Soon we will be at the zero hour point of no return. I fear for our humanity, for our future.

Jennifer Beinhacker, "What Does the Future Hold in Times of Crisis? - "Mixed media on wood: acrylic paint, metallic paint, tarot cards, sharpie pen, stamps 12"" X 24" The turning point of a disease when an important change takes place, indicating either recovery or death; physically, economically, leadership, organizational misdeeds . Now, in this age of Covid 19, is a crisis point of history. Soon we will be at the zero hour point of no return. I fear for our humanity, for our future.

When I'm feeling stressed I like to listen to Ira Glass's soothing voice on "This American Life". It's usually a place of escape for me, but now they're focusing so much on the pandemic and crisis around that in this podcast too. Is my place of comfort being destroyed, or should I be reassured that my fears are normal? I just want Ira Glass to reassure me with that nice, smooth voice of his.

Nico Felsenheld, "Emotional Support NPR Host" - When I'm feeling stressed I like to listen to Ira Glass's soothing voice on "This American Life". It's usually a place of escape for me, but now they're focusing so much on the pandemic and crisis around that in this podcast too. Is my place of comfort being destroyed, or should I be reassured that my fears are normal? I just want Ira Glass to reassure me with that nice, smooth voice of his.

Sierra Barnes, "Quarantiger" - Week four of quarantine has us all feeling like trapped tigers, I think.

This picture is of bright pink flowers which I think really highlights positivity and happiness which can make people smile during this time knowing that they should keep their chin up and stay happy.

Hannah Portner, "Springing Positivity During Quarantine" - This picture is of bright pink flowers which I think really highlights positivity and happiness which can make people smile during this time knowing that they should keep their chin up and stay happy.

In the midst of these strange and challenging times, our pets give us unconditional love and support. They encourage socialization—however distant—and give us love and affection. Oreo is cuddly and sweet; this drawing shows his calm demeanor and pleasant personality.

Melanie Roberts, "Oreo" - In the midst of these strange and challenging times, our pets give us unconditional love and support. They encourage socialization—however distant—and give us love and affection. Oreo is cuddly and sweet; this drawing shows his calm demeanor and pleasant personality.

David Stanley, "Stuck Inside" -This image represents the angel in everyone that feels they are in a dark place looking outside their abode.

Eva Boal, 8, finishes her yoga workout at home on her first day of "spring break", while quarantined during the COVID-19 pandemic on Monday, April 6, 2020. Schools were closed for the year several weeks ago, and since then, her school has been scheduling daily video calls with her teacher and classmates. Monday was the first day of Spring Break where there were no video calls and classwork, so she decided to try a yoga session in the living room.

John Boal, "Quarantine Yoga" - Eva Boal, 8, finishes her yoga workout at home on her first day of "spring break", while quarantined during the COVID-19 pandemic on Monday, April 6, 2020. Schools were closed for the year several weeks ago, and since then, her school has been scheduling daily video calls with her teacher and classmates. Monday was the first day of Spring Break where there were no video calls and classwork, so she decided to try a yoga session in the living room.

Using this extra time to make some punny cross-stitch art for my friends. (Cross-stitch pattern by Etsy artist CraftTimeinArkham)

Julian Plamann, "Seize the Day" - Using this extra time to make some punny cross-stitch art for my friends. (Cross-stitch pattern by Etsy artist CraftTimeinArkham)

Last week I came up with a way to document what’s happening around us. I started contacting friends to send me a picture of themselves in the spot they are spending the most time in during this quarantine. Along with the picture I asked them to write a short paragraph about what this quarantine means to them. Or if they didn’t want to write a short paragraph, I asked them to give me 10 words that describes what they are feeling right now. I then added my own twist to the photos and words to create one-of-a-kind images. (www.socialpolaroids.com)

Miguel Martinez, "Social Polaroids" - Last week I came up with a way to document what’s happening around us. I started contacting friends to send me a picture of themselves in the spot they are spending the most time in during this quarantine. Along with the picture I asked them to write a short paragraph about what this quarantine means to them. Or if they didn’t want to write a short paragraph, I asked them to give me 10 words that describes what they are feeling right now. I then added my own twist to the photos and words to create one-of-a-kind images. (www.socialpolaroids.com)

Been doing a lot of walking, of course, these days. Took a bunch of pictures of blossoming trees and buttercup-filled patches of grass, but this sight, of the barren trees reflected on the water of Four Mile Run, was more like my mood of late. Quiet, soft, thinking, waiting.

Theresa Flynn, "Spring Reflections" - Been doing a lot of walking, of course, these days. Took a bunch of pictures of blossoming trees and buttercup-filled patches of grass, but this sight, of the barren trees reflected on the water of Four Mile Run, was more like my mood of late. Quiet, soft, thinking, waiting.

A ballpoint portrait of Actor Clark Gregg in the play The Christopher Boy's Communion, drawn while in isolation. I spent approximately 40 hours over 3 weeks drawing it. Shading all those details kept me (somewhat) sane!

Paulina Valanty, "Theater Portrait" - Actor Clark Gregg in the play The Christopher Boy's Communion, drawn while in isolation. I spent approximately 40 hours over 3 weeks drawing it. Shading all those details kept me (somewhat) sane!

Lucas Hand, "Sunrise" - This is a poem about the countryside in the spring. (Written by Lucas Hand, age 7, 2nd Grade, Glebe Elementary School)"

My name is Nadia Lach, I am eleven years old. I hope this mini anthology will help some people struggling and I hope you enjoy it! These are all my works, I am excited to submit.

Nadia Lachhab, "Coronavirus" - My name is Nadia Lach, I am eleven years old. I hope this mini anthology will help some people struggling and I hope you enjoy it! These are all my works, I am excited to submit.

"We can support each other from afar with words and images of kindness, hope, compassion and hugs. Getting out exercising and working on a project such as this with family and friends - showing an act of kindness and support for one another is a good thing. This is Lake Accotink Park and Ravensworth Farm in Springfield, VA. The kids did all the artwork and posted them around Lake Trail, the marina, and the neighborhood. A big thank you to the VanBrunt family (dedicated Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) and community volunteers) for their amazing artwork of kindness, hope, support, hugs and compassion - wonderful job by Arika and the kids. For many, getting out for a walk, following protocols, is the only time they can get out for exercise and a much needed break. Seeing these signs lets them know they are not alone - we are all in this together.

Mary Keeser, "Signs, Words and Images of Kindness, Hope, Compassion and Hugs" - We can support each other from afar with words and images of kindness, hope, compassion and hugs. Getting out exercising and working on a project such as this with family and friends - showing an act of kindness and support for one another is a good thing. This is Lake Accotink Park and Ravensworth Farm in Springfield, VA. The kids did all the artwork and posted them around Lake Trail, the marina, and the neighborhood. A big thank you to the VanBrunt family (dedicated Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) and community volunteers) for their amazing artwork of kindness, hope, support, hugs and compassion - wonderful job by Arika and the kids. For many, getting out for a walk, following protocols, is the only time they can get out for exercise and a much needed break. Seeing these signs lets them know they are not alone - we are all in this together.

Maya Gibel, "Mother and Calf" - A drawing of a mother whale and her calf.

This picture is about everything that is going on right now. I know it's hard for some people but I hope this will bring people joy at this awful time. (Eliana Villwock, Grade 2)

Eliana Villwock, "The Helpers" - This picture is about everything that is going on right now. I know it's hard for some people but I hope this will bring people joy at this awful time. (Eliana Villwock, Grade 2)

I created this work 2 weeks into Quarantine when I still had hope and excitement for the break from school. Now I have run out of creative energy and I am just left with the fruits of my labor.

Wes Riggs, "Troubled Water" - I created this work 2 weeks into Quarantine when I still had hope and excitement for the break from school. Now I have run out of creative energy and I am just left with the fruits of my labor.

My dad introduced me to Star Trek and I really liked the way the characters and other things looked, so I made a whole page of drawings dedicated to Star Trek. And it turned out more awesome than I thought, so I decided to submit it.

Kai Heilen, "Star Trek Forever" - My dad introduced me to Star Trek and I really liked the way the characters and other things looked, so I made a whole page of drawings dedicated to Star Trek. And it turned out more awesome than I thought, so I decided to submit it.

Each day my twin brother Sully and I do a chalk drawing about something we miss or are longing for during quarantine and incorporate ourselves into it. We were supposed to go snorkeling in Hawaii over Spring Break, so we created a fun underwater image of us snorkeling with fish and other sea creatures. We've also created images of our summer swim and dive teams, fishing and crabbing, watching the sunset on the beach, soccer games and dance recitals and even playing on the playground with our friends!

Audrey Portner, "Longing for Snorkeling in Hawaii" - Each day my twin brother Sully and I do a chalk drawing about something we miss or are longing for during quarantine and incorporate ourselves into it. We were supposed to go snorkeling in Hawaii over Spring Break, so we created a fun underwater image of us snorkeling with fish and other sea creatures. We've also created images of our summer swim and dive teams, fishing and crabbing, watching the sunset on the beach, soccer games and dance recitals and even playing on the playground with our friends!

"Caoimhe (sounds like 'kiva', rhymes with 'diva' for good reason) is four years old and loves nothing more than drawing and the library, so she was particularly excited about submitting to the Quaranzine. She's by far our family's most talented artist!

Caoimhe O'Connor, "Lion Artastic" - "Caoimhe (sounds like 'kiva', rhymes with 'diva' for good reason) is four years old and loves nothing more than drawing and the library, so she was particularly excited about submitting to the Quaranzine. She's by far our family's most talented artist! Interview with the author: Q - What were you thinking about when drawing? "I was thinking of drawing an oval with a heart, and a tail like he was lying down." Q - Why did you draw a lion? "Because I love lions. They're my favorite animal, and they're yellow, and they're soft." Q - Why did you choose to use markers? "Because they're my special thing and I love them and they're my favorite thing in my art kit."

Hello I am Enkule. I drew the “Great Wave of Kanagawa” which was created by Hokusai. I moved to Arlington county in January and I started school on February 1st. I went to school for 2 months, and now we are stuck at home because of the quarantine. I draw a lot of pictures, we enjoy cooking, playing games, and I do my school assignments online at home. I can’t go out much, and I can’t see my friends for a while, so I’m a little bored. When we go out to get groceries we wear masks and gloves to protect us. We are being very careful because I have an 8 month old baby brother. We are extra careful about going out. Hope this is better soon!

Enkule Federer, "The Great Wave of Kanagawa" - Hello I am Enkule. I drew the “Great Wave of Kanagawa” which was created by Hokusai. I moved to Arlington county in January and I started school on February 1st. I went to school for 2 months, and now we are stuck at home because of the quarantine. I draw a lot of pictures, we enjoy cooking, playing games, and I do my school assignments online at home. I can’t go out much, and I can’t see my friends for a while, so I’m a little bored. When we go out to get groceries we wear masks and gloves to protect us. We are being very careful because I have an 8 month old baby brother. We are extra careful about going out. Hope this is better soon!

I am an Arlington resident sheltering in place with my 8 year old granddaughter. This is a poem she wrote about how she feels about staying in quarantine.

Alma Dominique-Kabasela, "In Quarantine" - I am an Arlington resident sheltering in place with my 8 year old granddaughter. This is a poem she wrote about how she feels about staying in quarantine.

Melanie Kehoss, "Delivery Heroes" - This papercut hangs on my door to thank all those working for USPS, parcel services, and delivery services. The figure is inspired by the eagle logo for USPS, in the style of the Egyptian god Horace (an eagle-headed human).

Sometimes home can be a refuge. In these times, home feels a bit confining. Tara Barr is a lifelong art lover and a working mom in the DC area. She recently decided to make painting a high priority in her life after setting it aside for over a decade to focus on her family and her career in technology. Tara is inspired by great design, interesting details, and nostalgic memories. You can show your support following @tarabarr.art on Instagram.

Tara Barr, "Woman House" - Sometimes home can be a refuge. In these times, home feels a bit confining. Tara Barr is a lifelong art lover and a working mom in the DC area. She recently decided to make painting a high priority in her life after setting it aside for over a decade to focus on her family and her career in technology. Tara is inspired by great design, interesting details, and nostalgic memories. You can show your support following @tarabarr.art on Instagram.

This picture represents my feelings about making it through hard times. Persistence and self-expression were qualities Frida Kahlo demonstrated throughout her life. When I was looking through recent paintings I was thinking about Frida Kahlo and what art means to me during this difficult time for all of us.

Cynthia Killough, "Frida 1932" - This picture represents my feelings about making it through hard times. Persistence and self-expression were qualities Frida Kahlo demonstrated throughout her life. When I was looking through recent paintings I was thinking about Frida Kahlo and what art means to me during this difficult time for all of us.

I am a freelance illustrator from Washington D.C. and serve as a political cartoonist for environmental news platform Our Daily Planet, as well as an illustrator for Georgetown University Office of Communications. In order to help me keep artistic and mental discipline during quarantine, I started an online art challenge called #CatadayApril, in which participants were encouraged to draw one cat every day in April. I created a prompt list as well as official graphics for the challenge.

Alexandra Bowman, "Cat Video Lawyer" - I am a freelance illustrator from Washington D.C. and serve as a political cartoonist for environmental news platform Our Daily Planet, as well as an illustrator for Georgetown University Office of Communications. In order to help me keep artistic and mental discipline during quarantine, I started an online art challenge called #CatadayApril, in which participants were encouraged to draw one cat every day in April. I created a prompt list as well as official graphics for the challenge.

Meehea Davis, "Social Distancing" - A comic about how our family is social distancing outside.

Andrew Henderson, "King Street Quarantine Views" - Route 7 (King Street) and Walter Reed Drive was completely devoid of cars one evening as I was on my way to the new Five Guys to pick up burgers for my wife and I. The brand new West End development, located where the old Five Guys used to be, is hoping to be a bustling city center. It looked so nice in the evening sun, but I felt a touch of sadness in the contrast between hope for future success of the new center and the empty street.

"Apollo." Duct tape, cardboard. 8.25"" x 11"" My partner and I decided to live together during the stay at home orders, resulting in me spending time with his dog 24/7 while he is out working long hours, 5-6 days a week. Apollo has become my world, in so many ways.

El Simmons, "Apollo" - Duct tape, cardboard. 8.25"" x 11"". My partner and I decided to live together during the stay at home orders, resulting in me spending time with his dog 24/7 while he is out working long hours, 5-6 days a week. Apollo has become my world, in so many ways.

Hillary Williams, "Sunset Bridge" - Image from a walk across the 395 pedestrian bridge in Shirlington at sunset.

Joanna Edwards, "Poppies" - Poppies in graphite. See more of my work on JoannaKEdwards.com or Instagram @thejosho

I celebrated my 90th birthday this month. I was born in Baltimore in 1930. One of my favorite life memories is from when I was 13 years old, and my 15-year-old sister and I hitchhiked to Maine. I stayed at an artist colony for two weeks. In my youth I was a dancer and played piano, mandolin, cassinette, and bass. When I graduated from high school I had to choose: dance professionally or study medicine. I became a doctor (Endocrinologist) and in the 1960s managed some of the first gender affirming (sex reassignment) surgeries for people who are trans. I live in a colorful house in Lyon Village with my husband Bob. We’ve raised children and are now grandparents. I am proud to be in my 90s. Photo credit: Marley Pulido

Joey Gibson, "My 90th Birthday" - I celebrated my 90th birthday this month. I was born in Baltimore in 1930. One of my favorite life memories is from when I was 13 years old, and my 15-year-old sister and I hitchhiked to Maine. I stayed at an artist colony for two weeks. In my youth I was a dancer and played piano, mandolin, cassinette, and bass. When I graduated from high school I had to choose: dance professionally or study medicine. I became a doctor (Endocrinologist) and in the 1960s managed some of the first gender affirming (sex reassignment) surgeries for people who are trans. I live in a colorful house in Lyon Village with my husband Bob. We’ve raised children and are now grandparents. I am proud to be in my 90s. Photo credit: Marley Pulido

I often find myself referring back to Carrie Fisher's writing and acting, especially when I'm feeling lost or vulnerable, or when the world seems to have stopped making sense. Her insistence on being loud and unapologetic about who she was has always been a source of strength for me, so painting her seemed appropriate in these times.

Katelyn Attanasio, "Space Mom" - I often find myself referring back to Carrie Fisher's writing and acting, especially when I'm feeling lost or vulnerable, or when the world seems to have stopped making sense. Her insistence on being loud and unapologetic about who she was has always been a source of strength for me, so painting her seemed appropriate in these times.

I am a diplomat who is serving in China. Every time I come to Arlington for training, I get to enjoy the wonderful services you provide to the community. I want to share a bit of what I see and feel here. I did a series called "Beating COVID-19"

Paloma Kottonger, "Beating Covid 19" - I am a diplomat who is serving in China. Every time I come to Arlington for training, I get to enjoy the wonderful services you provide to the community. I want to share a bit of what I see and feel here. I did a series called "Beating COVID-19"

Mark Charette, "Fountain: Halquist Hospice" - Take a break. Stare into the fountain. It helps.

Like may people, my husband and I have been keeping connected with family and friends during this time by participating in virtual visits, happy hours and trivia games. To make our Zoom get-togethers feel special, we have been experimenting with different cocktails. The actor, Stanley Tucci, posted a tutorial on his Instagram account making a Negroni for his wife. We tried it and found our new favorite! My painting includes all the ingredients for a perfect Negroni. I had fun composing the still life. I loved the colors and shapes of the bottles contrasting with the oranges, the brick wall and the lace table covering. This quieter life has gifted me adequate moments to notice and celebrate the simple beauty of everyday objects.

Rita Wiggins, "COVID-19, Still Life #1, An Homage to Stanley Tucci" - Like may people, my husband and I have been keeping connected with family and friends during this time by participating in virtual visits, happy hours and trivia games. To make our Zoom get-togethers feel special, we have been experimenting with different cocktails. The actor, Stanley Tucci, posted a tutorial on his Instagram account making a Negroni for his wife. We tried it and found our new favorite! My painting includes all the ingredients for a perfect Negroni. I had fun composing the still life. I loved the colors and shapes of the bottles contrasting with the oranges, the brick wall and the lace table covering. This quieter life has gifted me adequate moments to notice and celebrate the simple beauty of everyday objects.

This was the first piece I worked on since social distancing began. I started playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons shortly after things began to close and it was a great feeling to be able to escape to a tropical island where I could visit my friends in the safety of the virtual world. I wanted to make a piece that captured the idea of the island that I escape to and the reality of me at home in my blanket cocoon and 24/7 pajamas. Fantasy meets reality.

Rob Solka, "Escapism" - This was the first piece I worked on since social distancing began. I started playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons shortly after things began to close and it was a great feeling to be able to escape to a tropical island where I could visit my friends in the safety of the virtual world. I wanted to make a piece that captured the idea of the island that I escape to and the reality of me at home in my blanket cocoon and 24/7 pajamas. Fantasy meets reality.

I am curious about interior landscapes, so I started photographing everyday landscapes in my house. I post a daily image to my Facebook account as part of a meditation on the emotional processing of the effects of social distancing.

Stephanie Dempsey, "Separated" - I am curious about interior landscapes, so I started photographing everyday landscapes in my house. I post a daily image to my Facebook account as part of a meditation on the emotional processing of the effects of social distancing.

Stephen Hugh, "Covid 19 Haiku" - A Photo-Haiku of hope for these unusual times.

When things get so bleak we don’t know which way is up, we have to remind ourselves that there is light at the end of the tunnel, even if you have to create it yourself.

William Dickson, "Be The Light" - When things get so bleak we don’t know which way is up, we have to remind ourselves that there is light at the end of the tunnel, even if you have to create it yourself.

Due to required telework, I have not been able to water my desk plants. I prefer a desk-jungle if I have to be indoors all day. I was terribly worried as week two started that they may not make it. Fortunately, I was able to teach the building's minimal staffing team and they agreed to take pity on the plants. They asked for instructions, and I sketched and painted this quick instructional picture for them. Thankfully, the plants are surviving coronavirus.

Kayla Hinrichs Sorenson, "Please Water the Plants" - Due to required telework, I have not been able to water my desk plants. I prefer a desk-jungle if I have to be indoors all day. I was terribly worried as week two started that they may not make it. Fortunately, I was able to teach the building's minimal staffing team and they agreed to take pity on the plants. They asked for instructions, and I sketched and painted this quick instructional picture for them. Thankfully, the plants are surviving coronavirus.

Poster art: Acrylic painting on Poster. “Seeing colors of creativity in 2020” Seeing and giving feeling to emotions using art to express The inner thoughts on social and emotional response to the current epidemic happening the world today.

Jennie Lovelace, "2020 Spectrum" - Poster art: Acrylic painting on Poster. “Seeing colors of creativity in 2020” Seeing and giving feeling to emotions using art to express The inner thoughts on social and emotional response to the current epidemic happening the world today.

John Conroy, "COVID Postcards"

This is a group of elephants walking in the middle of the night with their trunks holding on to the tail of the elephant in front of them. They are under a starry night and a full moon. I painted it because I thought it would be fun and it would keep me busy, so that I am not bored.

Mina Dowler, "We are Together" - This is a group of elephants walking in the middle of the night with their trunks holding on to the tail of the elephant in front of them. They are under a starry night and a full moon. I painted it because I thought it would be fun and it would keep me busy, so that I am not bored.

Liz Laribee, Rhythm and Blues

Eric Mercado, "Demand Justice" - Protest Poster Design

Grace O'Malley, "Flower of Life" - Hand carved woodcut printed on archival paper.

I'm a freelance illustrator and comic book artist who believes strongly that black lives matter! I created this piece as a fundraiser for the BLM and for George Floyd.

Jenny Tato, "No Justice No Peace" - I'm a freelance illustrator and comic book artist who believes strongly that black lives matter! I created this piece as a fundraiser for the BLM and for George Floyd.

With spending a lot of time at home, it has allowed for many days of cooking and experimenting with baking. (I have a record for not being a good baker, but I've been succeeding lately!) I FINALLY started a blog after years of thinking about it. It's called faithful foodee! My cooking focuses on making simple meals with items found in the home and food scraps! This recipe can also be found on there at https://faithfulfoodee.wixsite.com/faithfulfoodee. It's an easy way to incorporate more veggies into a low-carb meal.

Melissa Grant, "Zucchini Roll-ups Recipe" - With spending a lot of time at home, it has allowed for many days of cooking and experimenting with baking. (I have a record for not being a good baker, but I've been succeeding lately!) I FINALLY started a blog after years of thinking about it. It's called faithful foodee! My cooking focuses on making simple meals with items found in the home and food scraps! This recipe can also be found on there at https://faithfulfoodee.wixsite.com/faithfulfoodee. It's an easy way to incorporate more veggies into a low-carb meal.

Liz Laribee, "I Miss What Summer Used to Feel Like" - Sharpie and watercolor on a paper napkin, unfolded.

Megan Biggins, "My Quarantine in Short" - A Six Word Memoir

This spring I wanted to be sure to pay extra attention to all of the blooms around my neighborhood through a series of drawings. This pen and ink drawing is taken from this set of sketches.

Angelina Jones, "Azalea" - This spring I wanted to be sure to pay extra attention to all of the blooms around my neighborhood through a series of drawings. This pen and ink drawing is taken from this set of sketches.

20 x 30” Acrylic on Canvas. This is my first painting, and the first comment I received about it was, “next time, try to do something more positive.” While I completely understood the viewer’s point, my frustration quietly compounded as I felt the understanding wasn’t reciprocated. What I hoped would be a connection, was instead a separation. Suspicions of being devalued were confirmed. This was not a matter of feelings, but a matter of fact.

Angela Maray, "Time" - 20 x 30” Acrylic on Canvas. This is my first painting, and the first comment I received about it was, “next time, try to do something more positive.” While I completely understood the viewer’s point, my frustration quietly compounded as I felt the understanding wasn’t reciprocated. What I hoped would be a connection, was instead a separation. Suspicions of being devalued were confirmed. This was not a matter of feelings, but a matter of fact.

Mark Charette, "Bumble bee: Halquist Hospice" - Hosta flowers have begun to open. As soon as sprinklers shut off, the bees start collecting pollen.

I created some mini paintings on a canvas pad using acrylic while on a zoom chat with some friends. They were fun and I found it easy to hop around while the paint dried and not worry so much about little details.

Allison Coyle, "Summer Essence" - I created some mini paintings on a canvas pad using acrylic while on a zoom chat with some friends. They were fun and I found it easy to hop around while the paint dried and not worry so much about little details.

Violet Radzin, "Dr. Anthony Fauci" - A portrait of Dr. Fauci by Violet, age (almost) 3

Edgar Evans, "Winter" - A meditation on the meaning we impart to nature.

Diane Kresh, "Things I miss #4792" - Modified photo

To take part in another creative project through Arlington Public Library, check out the Edible Book Contest! Submissions are due by December 29.

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John Robinson

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Sugar, Spice and Oh That Book Looks Nice!

Best Creation: Kids Up to Grade 5

"The Very Hungry Catepillar" by Brahm

Best Creation: Grade 6-12

"Jurassic Park" by Hunter

Best Creation: Adult

"My Favorite Books!" by Adriana

Honorable Mention

"(Return of the) King Cake" by Maria

Check out these other scrumptious, bookish creations we loved!

First Movement

Opening Night

Style and Substance

Organization and Funding

Final Act

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Have You Read These Books?

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The Books That Made Us Think and Feel This Year

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Season's Greetings from All of Us!

Leonard “Doc” Muse

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Hats Off to Our Quaranzine Community

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