The love of art is celebrated widely in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The most obvious display of this sentiment is Virginia’s LOVEworks artwork, seen all across Virginia and totaling more than 370 “LOVE” signs in recognition of the iconic “Virginia is for Lovers” slogan. Colorful, playful themed sculptures and murals decorate all parts of Virginia in its downtowns, beaches, restaurants, wineries, parks and more. (Visit Virginia.org/LOVEworks to search LOVEworks locations.) Even so, the fun, unique signage only brushes the surface of Virginia’s vibrant art scene.
It could be said that Richmond’s Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) (Photo above courtesy of Travis Fullerton, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts ©2014) is viewed as a masterpiece of Virginia’s first-class art scene. With a vast collection of world-wide art spanning more than 6,000 years, the VMFA is one of our nation’s largest art museums and a must-see for art enthusiasts. The VMFA opened its doors in 1936, and today it is the only U.S. art museum open every day of the year with free general admission. While certainly a gem, Downtown Richmond is full of countless art opportunities beyond VMFA, including additional museums, numerous art galleries, interesting murals, as well as historical landmarks. At the Virginia Capitol Square, be sure to look for the Virginia Women’s Monument: Voices from the Garden, featuring seven bronze statues in recognition of key women in Virginia’s history.
In Alexandria, also known as a top art destination in the Commonwealth, discover a strong creative community supporting local artists, as seen with its large number of art galleries and studios. Drawing around 500,000 visitors each year, the Torpedo Factory Art Center houses 71 artists’ studios, the largest gathering of its kind under one roof in the U.S.
With an awareness campaign named “Norfolk – The City of Arts,” it is no surprise that Norfolk offers some of the region’s most incredible arts & cultural opportunities, including those experienced in its arts district called the NEON District. Along with amazing art museums, the City has a remarkable performing arts scene, thanks in part to dedicated organizations such as Virginia Arts Festival, who presents top-notch, award-winning performers from around the world while simultaneously supporting local artists. Throughout the year, Virginia’s event calendars stay packed with high-quality performances, such as the Virginia Arts Festival’s annual production of Virginia International Tattoo.
Virginia Beach’s ViBe Creative District showcases an array of colorful murals covering all sorts of subjects and designs.
Charlottesville also has a thriving art culture, offering a variety of musical performances and art exhibits. Keep an eye on the city’s robust events calendar, including downtown markets for one-of-a-kind crafts made by local artisans. Virginia’s Blue Ridge is another excellent spot to soak in the arts. Check out Roanoke’s interesting public art displays throughout its city, and set aside time to explore the Taubman Museum of Art.
A visit to Virginia’s southwestern corner to spend time at The Birthplace of Country Music in Bristol is something music lovers will definitely want on their itinerary. An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the museum offers visitors unique, immersive experiences, with a special focus on the important “Bristol Sessions” of 1927, honoring legendary music artists and recognizing the region’s musical heritage.
No matter what part of Virginia you are visiting, get ready to explore an assortment of fascinating art in all kinds of places whether on main street, a college campus or a historic hotel. From international to local, Virginia celebrates and supports the arts!
Author: VisitVirginia
