Summer Lovin' 2026: Join us on August 8 for our 1st birthday party celebration at Elaine's Literary Salon in Old Town, Alexandria — Children's Book Authors, Student Art Exhibit, Student musicians, Craft projects, and more! • Until then: Check out our daily features, Meet our new columnists and sponsors, and Submit your work for publication
Meet student artist Leanna Grimes, a winner in the 2026 “Student Art Anthology” at Nepenthe Gallery
Meet the Artist: Leanna Grimes is currently a Senior at Culpeper County High School and is an award winning graphic artist both in her school and in her community. She has not only been recognized with multiple awards from the Culpeper County Wide Art Show but has also had work included in juried art shows in galleries such as Nepenthe in Alexandria, Virginia.
While she is most comfortable with graphite and acrylic, she is also well versed in pastels, charcoal, and three dimensional rendering. She loves creating unique and detailed works of all mediums and subject matters, which include portraits, animals, and architecture. She is also currently pursuing a career in cosmetology at Culpeper Technical Education Center, where she continues expanding her artistic repertoire.
About the Art: These works are part of a new art series featuring legendary musicians who changed the course of pop and rock history. The first piece in the series, “The Purple One,” is a portrait honoring Prince, whose creativity and artistry redefined modern music. The second, “The King of Pop,” pays tribute to Michael Jackson, embracing his iconic, unparalleled impact on music and pop culture.
Artist Leanna Grimes
Where we meet Leanna: “One of only 15 student artists selected to be part of the Nepenthe Gallery exhibit, Leanna’s work stands out,” says gallery owner Carrie Garland. “We are so happy that she will be featured at the Inkandescent Kids Children’s Book Fair and 1st Birthday Party on August 8, 2026.”
About the Student Art Anthology at Nepenthe Gallery and Renée C. Gage Photography: We are proud to present the annual showcase of selected works of art by local high school and college students.
More than 100 works were submitted, and only 15 student artists’ works were chosen, which makes this exhibit the most selective ever! Five high schools, one home school, and two universities are represented in this exhibit. Nepenthe is inspired by these students’ creativity and energy and grateful they have the courage to share their talent and creations.
Learn more about Nepenthe: 7918 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria VA 22308 • 571-347-7961 • nepenthegallery.com
Congratulations to the students have been chosen to have their original artwork exhibited in this year’s “Student Art Anthology,” including:
Artwork by Leanna Grimes
Eloise Andreozzi, Inner Child • West Potomac High School
Malcolm Beane, Evening Drive • St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School
Travius Best, JOY • George Mason University
Eleanor Bogue, Sunny Morning • Catholic University
Jay Betsill Damont, Fall’s Beauty • St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School
Tanya Erostegui, Smoke Break • George Mason University
Rozalia Finkelstein, Twin Portraits • Alexandria City High School
Margaret Gangi, Sisters • St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School
Leanna Grimes, Sirenix Bloom • Culpeper High School
Willa Johnson, Nesting • St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School
Jovanny Felix Luna, Hijo • West Potomac High School (pictured top)
Kate McGrew, Flower and Vines Keepsake Box • St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School
Jacob Perdue, An Underclass Working Hidden in the Light • George Mason University
Margo Semancik, Jimmy • Home School
Caroline Tso, Porcelain Girl • Woodson High School
