When Richmond-area students filtered into the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts yesterday, nobody had told them there would be surprise special guests.
Local high school and college students held up handmade posters, shook pom-poms, and rolled with a live drumline — all to rally excitement for “Giants,” an exhibition of art from musicians Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz. Little did the students know, the celebrity power couple was behind the scenes, waiting to step onto the stage, express gratitude, and answer questions from the audience.
Here are a few sentiments from Keys when asked about life and career obstacles:
“People — they love to change you. They can’t wait to change you. They can’t wait to make you feel doubt about what you know about yourself. They can’t wait to make you feel uncomfortable for being different, for being unique, and that was hard because I was only 16 or 17, but I just knew it. I knew who I was.”
“It remains a difficult part to continuously remember who you are and not let people change who that is... It’s a really hard thing to hold onto,” she adds.
“I realize that fighting to be yourself is a superpower, and it’s gonna always put you in a beautiful position.”
The pep rally closed out with a group selfie and some heartfelt handshakes from the two stars. Buzzing with excitement, students dispersed to eat lunch and explore the exhibit. Again, not to their knowledge, Keys and Swizz Beatz had plans to stick around. They joined students to pose for photos and discuss the collection among the gallery halls.
Through the rushes of star-studded thrill, it took a moment for the impact to settle in. What we saw from the celebrity duo felt more than a good look or photo opportunity, but a sincere message of solidarity, interest, and inspiration for Richmond’s younger generations.
Participating schools included:
Cristo Rey High School, Henrico Center for the Arts, Highland Springs High School, Richmond Public Schools, Thomas Dale High School, Varina High School, George Mason University through Hip Hop Foundation, Hampton University, Howard University, Norfolk State University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, University of Richmond, University of Virginia, and William + Mary
“Giants” will premiere to the general public on Saturday, Nov. 22, and run until March 2026. Reserve your tickets.
