In the electric and perpetually sincere terrain of Richmond’s theatre culture, there are institutions that do more than merely reside, they lead. They serve as a measure of our city's potential beyond its natural aspirations. I've witnessed Firehouse Theatre inhabit...
The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention 2024 took over the Doubletree Midlothian this past weekend, offering an unapologetic look into the heart of tattoo culture. Hosted by local legend Jesse Smith and Ink Master’s Ryan Ashley, the three-day event drew a mix of veteran ink enthusiasts and curious first-timers, all hungry to experience one of...
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) has unveiled two major photography exhibitions, showcasing its dedication to this ever-evolving art form. The first exhibition, The Long Arc: Photography and the American South since 1845, marks the first major Southern photography show in over 25 years, while the second, American Born, Hungary:...
As Richmond’s mayoral election approaches, one thing has become clear: the conversation about our city’s future is missing a key element—the Richmond Arts District on Broad Street. Despite its immense creative potential, this vibrant part of downtown has been struggling, especially since the pandemic. Between 2010 and 2016, the Arts District was...
Jesse Smith, the local legend and founder of Loose Screw Tattoo in Carytown, has been repping this ol’ Fist City since the '90s with his twisted animation style and has been celebrated all over the world for his craft. His works span a wide range of genres, but like the best artists out there, you know a Jesse Smith piece when you see one. I...
While the first thing you may notice about Ryan Ashley is that she is painfully beautiful to look at, don’t let that stop you from recognizing the absolute unit of an artist that she is. She’s a Pennsylvania native, an erstwhile New Yorker, and a current resident of Grand Junction, CO and Elysium Studios. She made her education at FIT in New York...
Richmond, get ready—this weekend, GalaxyCon’s Nightmare Weekend is bringing a mashup of pop culture chaos, horror flick royalty, and hometown heroes to the Greater Richmond Convention Center from October 11th to 13th. It’s more than just another con; this one’s crawling with the legends who’ve made you scream and the stars you’ve stayed up late...
This past weekend, the 36th Annual 2nd Street Festival once again took over Jackson Ward, and if you weren’t there, you missed one of Richmond’s most enduring cultural throwdowns. October 5-6 saw thousands descend on this historic neighborhood, basking in flawless weather and celebrating the legacy of what was once called “the Harlem of the...
Once more, bridge the gap, dear Richmonders, or close up the gap with our Monroe Park rats… But when the blasts of indie rock blow in our ears, then imitate the beaver and fill the river stage. - Griffin Shakespeare Smalley. Got a show coming up? New single? Simply want someone to talk music? I am your guy at griffin@rvamag.com....
Art is the lifeblood of any city, and if you’re in Richmond, you know we’re swimming in a sea of talent. From the quirky to the avant-garde, our city is a playground for incredible artists, organizations, and institutions that cater to every vibe and taste. As October rolls around, it’s time to crank up the excitement for artoberVA, the annual...
