Fresh Paint: Murals Inspired by the Story of Virginia
See this unique exhibition in progress!
–Live mural painting from September 10 through October 1
–View the completed murals before objects installation from October 13 to October 26
–Full exhibition opens October 27 (on display through April 21)
With over 100 murals, Richmond’s vibrant street art scene is a visual reminder of the city’s history, modernity, and diversity of cultures. This unprecedented exhibition explores the power of murals to encourage reflection on Virginia’s past by inviting artists to produce works inspired by one or more historical items from the museum’s collection, and in so doing examine our present and inspire us to think about ways we can shape the future.
Artist commissions and exhibit support generously provided by Pam and Bill Royall.
About the Mural Project
This project has been more than a year in the making. It started with an idea for a new book that is being released this October. The Story of Virginia: Highlights from the Virginia Museum of History and Culture — co-authored by Jamie O. Bosket, VMHC President and CEO, and Dr. William M. S. Rasmussen, VMHC Senior Curator of Exhibitions and Lora M. Robins Curator of Art — illustrates 400+ objects from our collection that help tell the rich history of the Commonwealth.
Our staff was inspired by how Richmond’s street art community is telling the story of the city and state today. They wondered how these artists might interpret collection pieces and themes highlighted in the book. Thus the Fresh Paint exhibition was born! Each artist has been asked to develop a mural based on object(s) or theme(s) from the new book that they found particularly impactful. Learn more about the book.
Come see the murals as they’re being created and come back to see them displayed side by side with the objects that inspired them!
PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE:
Live Painting in the Gallery for public view from September 10 through October 12, 2018 (Free for members or included with the museum’s suggested admission.)
Come and watch the creation of each mural beginning in mid-September and continuing into October when it will coincide with artoberVA, an annual celebration of arts and culture in Richmond and Tri-Cities area of Virginia. Live painting will happen every weekend from September 15 through October 12, with some artists also working during the week.
Make Your Mark Paint Night, where you can sip wine and decorate tables for the exhibition interactive art space – Tuesday, October 2, 2018. Limited to 12 tickets. Purchase yours.
Cocktails With The Artists: Fresh Paint Exhibit Opening, with book launch, drinks, and hors d’oeuvres – Friday, October 26, 2018. (Tickets on sale soon.)
Public Exhibition Opening, with art-themed, family-friendly activities throughout the day – Saturday, October 27, 2018 (Free for members or included with the museum’s suggested admission.)
