RVA Community Makers 2023, an annual community-activated art project, is back with its fifth edition, and this year’s honorees are Janine Bell, Gary Flowers, and Jackson Ward Collective. The project, presented annually by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and led by artist Hamilton Glass, is a public art project that celebrates African American leaders from various fields.
The theme of this year’s project is video storytelling, inspired by VMFA’s exhibition “Isaac Julien: Lessons of the Hour—Frederick Douglass”. Myles Brown, a Richmond videographer and artist, has teamed up with VMFA to create a video interview showcase highlighting the impact made by our 2023 honorees. The video installation will be on display in Cochrane Atrium, where visitors can experience the stories of the honorees and how they use their talents and passions to make a difference in their communities.
Photo of Janine Bell courtesy of VMFA
Photo of Gary Flowers courtesy of VMFA
Photo of Rasheeda Creighton, Kelli Lemon, and Melody Joy Short of the Jackson Ward Collective courtesy of VMFA
Janine Bell is an artist, folklorist, cultural historian, producer, and arts administrator, and the founder and president of the nonprofit Elegba Folklore Society. Gary Flowers is a talk show host and a tour guide, leading insightful tours of the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood. The Jackson Ward Collective is a group of entrepreneurs and community leaders who work together to support Black-owned businesses and help them grow. They include Rasheeda Creighton, Kelli Lemon, and Melody Joy Short, who all play an important role in the foundation’s programming and initiatives.
The project was created and led by artist Hamilton Glass, whose passion for public art stems from his background in architecture and design. The event is presented annually by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, coinciding with Black History Month. The goal is to honor individuals who have made a significant impact in their community and inspire others to use their talents and voices to make a difference.
Photo of Myles Brown courtesy of VMFA
RVA Community Makers 2023 is an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the rich culture and history of African American art in Richmond. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the honorees’ stories and how they have positively impacted the community through their work. The project is a reminder that, in Richmond, African American art and artists are celebrated all year long, and their impact on the community is undeniable.
Find more information HERE
Main photo is of Hamilton Glass courtesy of VMFA
