Leithauser

For almost four decades, Mark Leithauser has had one of the most visible jobs in Washington but one that is often overlooked.

Art explained: Mark Leithauser, chief of design, National Gallery of Art 2011

In a dark suit, and wearing the rubber-soled shoes that are required for the miles of travel among the museum's 232 rooms, Leithauser discussed the process.

Art explained: Mark Leithauser, chief of design, National Gallery of Art 2011

Leithauser is the chief of design and senior curator at the National Gallery of Art, where, among other duties, he chooses the colors for the walls, selecting the perfect backgrounds for some of the world's most famous art.

Art explained: Mark Leithauser, chief of design, National Gallery of Art 2011

Performing in a tweed jacket, trousers and a button-down, frontman Leithauser looks more like an adjunct professor than a rock star, but he's got a voice that shrinks big spaces, and the elusive quality of presence.

In concert: The Walkmen at 9:30 Club Chris Klimek 2010

Leithauser thinks he has some idea of what happened at that Metro station.

The Fiddler in the Subway Gene Weingarten 2010

Leithauser thinks he has some idea of what happened at that Metro station.

The Fiddler in the Subway Gene Weingarten 2010

"Angela Surf City" finds Leithauser entering red-in-the-face wailing territory while Barrick's casual gallop becomes a full sprint.

Album reviews: The Walkmen, "Lisbon" and Interpol, "Interpol" 2010

Leithauser thinks he has some idea of what happened at that Metro station.

The Fiddler in the Subway Gene Weingarten 2010

"The country air is good for me," Leithauser croons on opener "Juveniles" as reverb-flecked guitar mingles with Barrick's rumbling rhythms.

Album reviews: The Walkmen, "Lisbon" and Interpol, "Interpol" 2010

Leithauser thinks he has some idea of what happened at that Metro station.

The Fiddler in the Subway Gene Weingarten 2010