Protest Signs

Signs of Protest: Photographs from the Civil Rights Era

Signs and protests were inseparable in the 1960s, with words painted or printed large scale to produce maximum impact when photographed or filmed by the media. Like a visual bullhorn, they both amplified and unified the voices fighting injustice. Ninety percent of the works featured in Signs of Protest: Photographs from the Civil Rights Era were acquired by VMFA in the past three years and emphasize the museum’s commitment to diversifying its photography collection.

Ken Ramsay, Susan Taylor, as Model, c. 1970s

Race, Place & Identity: Richmond Organizations Highlight Civil Rights and Social Justice

Starting in January 2014, eight Richmond-based arts and cultural organizations will partner to facilitate community-wide conversations inspired by their respective exhibitions and programs. Participating institutions include Candela Books + Gallery, Anderson Gallery VCUarts, Black Iris, 1708 Gallery, Elegba Folklore Society, Reynolds Gallery, the Valentine Richmond History Center, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

Leighton Painting

Special Exhibitions & Gallery Installations

With an exciting lineup of special exhibitions, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts brings the world to Virginia in the form of great art representing the span of world cultures. VMFA is internationally recognized for its ambitious special exhibitions drawn from the world’s finest public and private art collections as well as the museum’s permanent collection. Exhibitions are subject to change. For the latest information please visit vmfa.museum/exhibitions. General admission is always free. Some special exhibitions require an admission fee.