SFDC and Nepenthe Gallery Celebrate Public Art and Placemaking at Faces of 1 Artist Meet & Greet

Alexandria, VA – Over 75 art lovers, community leaders, and local residents gathered at Nepenthe Gallery on Thursday for a special wine and cheese event showcasing artist Michael Alfano, the sculptor behind the Faces of 1 public art project along Richmond Highway. The event, hosted in collaboration with the Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation (SFDC), highlighted the power of public art in placemaking and how initiatives like Faces of 1 are enhancing the look, feel, and identity of the corridor.

Attendees enjoyed an evening of art, conversation, and networking in the elegant setting of Nepenthe Gallery, a beloved local art space known for its weekly free wine and cheese gatherings on Thursdays at 6 PM. Special guests included Fairfax County Supervisor Rodney Lusk, who spoke about the importance of beautification and thoughtful development along Richmond Highway, noting his efforts to ensure early projects, such as the Beacon of Groveton, prioritized pedestrian-friendly design over vast parking lots.

SFDC Executive Director Evan Kaufman introduced artist Michael Alfano, whose powerful sculptures along the corridor tell stories of identity, history, and transformation. Kaufman underscored SFDC’s mission to revitalize Richmond Highway through strategic placemaking, business development, and public art, emphasizing how Faces of 1 aligns with these goals by fostering a stronger sense of place and community pride.

Alfano shared insights into his life’s work, his artistic process, and the inspiration behind each sculpture. Attendees had the unique opportunity to purchase miniature replicas of his sculptures and explore the gallery’s diverse collection of artwork. The evening was filled with engaging conversations, artistic appreciation, and a shared vision for a vibrant and welcoming Richmond Highway.

For those interested in experiencing the Faces of 1 sculptures firsthand, a map of all sculptures and murals along Richmond Highway is available at SFDC.org/Facesof1.

About SFDC

The Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation (SFDC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the economic revitalization and enhancement of the Richmond Highway Corridor. Through placemaking, business support, and strategic partnerships, SFDC works to transform the corridor into a thriving, attractive, and community-centered destination. Public art initiatives like Faces of 1 are just one of the many ways SFDC is helping to reshape the identity of Richmond Highway and foster a sense of pride, culture, and connectivity.

For more information about SFDC’s placemaking initiatives and upcoming events, visit SFDC.org.

About Nepenthe Gallery

Located in Hollin Hall, Alexandria, Nepenthe Gallery is a vibrant art space dedicated to showcasing a diverse range of artwork from local, regional, and national artists. The gallery hosts free wine and cheese nights every Thursday at 6 PM, creating a welcoming space for art enthusiasts to gather, connect, and explore. Learn more at NepentheGallery.com.