Draftsman
Where: Gallery Underground, 100 Crystal Drive, Suite 2120-A, Arlington
When: Sept. 2-22
Alexandria native and T.C. Williams alum Barry Barnett Keith presents large acrylic landscapes and portraits in this show, with the goal of his work appearing “indicative of the medium of painting”—not be a mere “photographic picture.” Free.
Mary J. Blige
Where: Filene Center at Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna
When: Sept. 3, 8 p.m.
Oscar-nominated actress and songwriter (and nine-time Grammy winner) Mary J. Blige returns to Wolf Trap with nearly three decades of soul and hip-hop hits under her belt. $45-$250.
Phoebe Robinson
Where: Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse, 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington
When: Sept. 5-7
Writer and comedian Phoebe Robinson—one-half of the duo behind podcast and HBO special 2 Dope Queens—has an illustrious career in comedy, including a role in What Men Want and writing credits on Portlandia. $30-$40.
Jennifer Hudson
Where: Filene Center at Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna
When: Sept. 5, 8 p.m.
She has competed on American Idol, performed on Broadway, won an Academy Award for her first film role and delivered powerful tributes to beloved artists. Catch vocalist Jennifer Hudson at Wolf Trap. $45-$85.
Ties That Bind
Where: Arlington Art Truck, Locations vary
When: Sept. 7-Oct. 31
Join multimedia artist Lorenzo Cardim and others for a button-sewing tutorial, where participants will add an array of buttons onto fabric maps of Arlington neighborhoods. Free.