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
Have you committed one of these strangely specific crimes? Take a look at some weird Virginia laws you might not have known were on the books.
The VMFA hosted 15 Richmond-area schools (and two very special guests) for the premiere of the new “Giants” collection.
Here’s your guide to stocking up on seasonal goods from local artisans and traveling markets.
Share your feedback on the the East End Solar Meadow Project at three upcoming community meetings.
From trails and safety tips to bike shops and accessories — RVA locals tell you what’s good.
The Old Dominion Postcard Club is hosting its 47th annual show at Keystone Truck + Tractor Museum, Nov 14-15.
Over the next 10 days, we’re launching a reader-driven campaign to sustain what we do best.
Two local pizza businesses announced big plans this week.
Find out how to help stock a community fridge this holiday season.
See where to stock up on seasonal produce around the city, from year-round shopping to in-season markets.