THURSDAY:
>> Flashpoint puts a little twist on the gallery show with Anonymous III by WPAC. The show will feature 100 works by established and emerging artists from the D.C. area, but every piece will remain anonymous until it’s purchased by an art lover who will have to appreciate quality over a name brand. The gallery will hold a reception this evening to scope out the goods, but you won’t be able to purchase anything until tomorrow. Pick your favorites tonight between 6 and 8 p.m.

>> The Phillips Collection has their usual Thursday night Artful Evening, with a discussion on Splash, Stain and Spray that examines techniques from the leaders of the ColorField movement, such as Sam Gilliam. And if you see Director Jay Gates hanging around, wish him a happy retirement. The lectures, at 6 and 7 p.m., are free with admission.

FRIDAY:
>> Did you buy your first photograph at DCist Exposed and now have an unquenchable thirst for more? Learn The Art of Collecting Photographs with a lady who knows what she’s talking about, Kathleen Ewing of the eponymous gallery in Dupont. Catch the talk at 5:30 p.m. at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

>> The Arlington Arts Center gets the student shows started a bit early with New Art Examined III: Works by 2007 MFA Graduates. See what the art world holds for us as these kids step out into the big time, with this survey of new talent from D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area schools. Opening reception 6 to 9 p.m. If you feel inspired, sign up for one of the Center’s many summer arts classes.

Photo of one of the anonymous works at Flashpoint courtesy of WPAC.