From the VMFA
Thu, Jun 6 | 6:30–7:30 pm
Join VMFA curator Valerie Cassel Oliver on June 6 at 6:30 pm as she discusses the works on view in Cosmologies from the Tree of Life: Art from the African American South. The exhibition reframes art rooted in African aesthetic legacies, familial tradition, and communal training to recognize their significant contributions to the canon of American Modernism.
Free Family Day
Sat, Jun 8, 2019 | 11 am–3 pm
On Saturday, June 8, 11 am–3 pm, celebrate African and African American Art. This year’s event showcases the music, artistic traditions, and culture of Mali. Enjoy storytelling, dancing, performances by musician Cheick Hamala Diabate, and hands-on art making projects. No tickets or reservations required.
Early Childhood Classes
Tots of Art | Jun 13 or 20 | 4–5 pm
Wee-Enrich | Jun 25-27 | 10:30–11:45 am
For toddlers, Tots of Art (hour-long weekday classes) and Wee-Enrich (multiple day camps) provide enriching and play-oriented experiences. They engage a child’s developing senses, guide them to make connections to the world around them, and foster communication and social abilities.
Art Adventures for Children with Autism
Grades K-2 | Mon-Fri, Jun 24–28 | 9 am–noon
Grades 3-5 | Mon-Fri, Jun 24–28 | 1–4 pm
In an exciting new program designed specifically for children with autism spectrum disorder, budding artists explore the museum’s collections, experiment with art materials, learn through specialized teaching methods, and interact with peers.
Teen Summer Classes
Ages 13-17 | 5-day classes
Mon-Fri, Jul 8–Aug 30
9 am–noon or 1–4 pm
Registration is still open! From drawing, painting, and sculpting to film or fashion, teens will learn new skills and enhance their talents as they develop personal vision and strengthen portfolios for college. Taught by professional artists and instructors, the classes offer individual instruction to accommodate students of all levels of experience.
Karen Terry Trunk Show
Sat, June 8, 11 am–5 pm
Sun, June 9, 11 am–5 pm
Mixed-media Virginia artist Karen Terry creates wall art, jewelry, and ceramics. Her art is rooted in her personal history and experience, suggesting cultural and aesthetic kinship through diverse materials and techniques. On June 8 & 9, the VMFA Shop will host her trunk show in celebration of the opening of the exhibition Cosmologies from the Tree of Life.
Music & Dancing
Fill your summer nights with music and dancing. Thursday nights, listen to live jazz at Dominion Energy Jazz Café. Friday nights, enjoy live music in the museum for First Friday on June 7 and Dance after Work with Afrobeat on June 21. On June 28, bring a blanket or lawn chair and your dancing shoes for the outdoor Summer Breeze.
