Support Us Button Widget

“Dawoud Bey: Elegy” opens at VMFA Nov. 18

The VMFA commissioned works by the renowned artist for immersive show, on view through Feb. 25

RICtoday_DawoudBey_VMFA_Exterior

“Dawoud Bey: Elegy” will be on view until Feb. 25.

Photo by RICtoday

A new exhibit opens at the VMFA on Saturday, Nov. 18. “Dawoud Bey: Elegy” features works of film and photography by the renowned contemporary artist.

An exploration of the early experiences of enslaved people America, the exhibition features three photo series and two film installations. Two of the works were created in Richmond.

A black-and-white image of a wooded path

Untitled (Trail and Trees) from the series Stony the Road, 2022, Dawoud Bey (American, born 1953), gelatin silver print. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

Named for a line from “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the photo series “Stony the Road” centers around the Richmond Slave Trail, which traces the path of enslaved people brought through Richmond. The film “350,000" was produced in collaboration with local production companies, choreographers, musicians, and dancers.

At the media preview for the exhibit, Bey spoke about his work as his subjective take on history, visualized. Bey views his work as a means of conflating past and present, rather than a documentation of historical events.

RICtoday_DawoudBey_VMFA_ArtistTalk

Dawoud Bey spoke at the media preview of the exhibition.

Photo by RICtoday

Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for ages 65+, $8 for youth and college students, and free for members.

More from RICtoday
Commonwealth Fusion Systems is investing billions to build the power plant at the James River Industrial Center.
Whether you’re interested in local news, music, sports, or wellness, there’s a River City podcast for you.
Let us know what we should cover in the River City in 2025.
These gifts are way better than a Jelly of the Month Club membership.
Here are our recommendations for memorable presents in the form of experiences.
The River City has seen its fair share of winter storms throughout its history.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Richmond?
2024’s Google Year in Search is out — check out what Richmonders were searching most this year (it might surprise you).
The upgrades will include new recliner seats, large format auditoriums, and a family-friendly arcade space.
Read our list and check it twice to see how to get the most out of holiday illuminations in the River City.