Join Mary Holland, The Thomas C. Gordon, Jr. Director of the Studio School, for an exploration of works in the special exhibition, Steinlen: Cats.
Special Events
National African American Read-In 2018
Celebrate Black History Month! As a part of the 28th annual National African American Read-In, leaders from the community share African and African American literature related to works in the permanent collection.
The VMFA Library will also be open on this night for extended hours with works from the archives relating to the artist Chester Higgins and P.H. Polk, whose work is currently on view in the exhibition, Like a Study in Black History: P. H. Polk, Chester Higgins and The Black Photographers Annual, Volume 2.
New this year! Children, and their families, are invited to join us for an hour of artwork, gallery activities and children’s stories by African and African American artists and authors (intended audience 2 1/2–8 years of age).
Click on the time tabs below to view featured works, readings, and readers.
The following works will be highlighted from 4–5 pm for Family Hour:
The Guitarist, Charles White, ca. 1959
American Galleries, Mid-20th Century
Reading
“Max Found Two Sticks” by Brian Pinkney
Reader
Ami Dowden-Fant | Artistic Director/Owner, River City Dance & Performing Arts Theatre
Chasers, Purpled, Sam Gilliam, 1980
Mid to Late 20th Century Galleries
Mid to Late 20th Century Galleries
Reading
“Beautiful Blackbird” by Ashley Bryan
Reader
Anthony Bryant | Owner, Little Nomad Shop
ibala leSindebele (Ndebele Design), Esther Mahlangu 2014
Evans Court, African Galleries
Reading
“My Painted House, My Friendly Chicken” by Maya Angelou
Reader
Suzanne Mallory-Parker | Program Director, Turnaround Arts, Richmond Public Schools
The following works will be highlighted from 5–7 pm:
Untitled, Dumile Feni (1980s)
African Galleries, Level 2
Readings
Seaparankoe by Keorapetse Kgositsile and Somehow We Survive by Dennis Brutus
Readers
Hamilton Glass | Professional Artist
Taekia Glass | Program Director, ART 180
Yewande Austin | President, Global Institute for Diversity and Change
Red Figure Head Vase in the Shape of a Nubian, Artist Unknown (350-320 BC)
Ancient Galleries, Level 2
Readings
Ode to a Grecian Urn by John Keats and To John Keats, a Poet, at Springtime by Countee Cullen
Readers
Kelli Lemon | Social Influencer and Host, Coffee with Strangers Podcast
Dr. Brandi Thompson Summers | Assistant Professor, African American Studies, VCU
Double-handled Jug, 1840, David Drake (American, ca. 1800 – ca. 1870), stoneware with alkaline glaze. Floyd D. and Anne C. Gottwald Fund and partial gift of Dr. and Mrs. John E. Hoar, 2017.150
Double-Handed Jug, David Drake (1840)
American Galleries, Level 2
Reading
My Pen by Frank Addison Mowig Philom (Rochester, NY), published in Frederick Douglass’ Paper, February 5, 1852
Readers
Toria Edmonds Howell | Program Manager Mayor’s Youth Academy
Students from Mayor’s Youth Academy
Students from Armstrong Leadership Program
Chasers, Purpled, Sam Gilliam, 1980
Mid to Late 20th Century Galleries
Reading
I Believe by Elizabeth Alexander
Readers
Colonel Alfred Durham | Chief of Police, Richmond Police Department
Michael Herring | Commonwealth Attorney for the City of Richmond
Dr. Betty Crutcher | Presidential Spouse, University of Richmond & Cross-Cultural Mentoring Consultant
Overstood, Sanford Biggers (2017)
21st century Galleries, Level 2
Readings
To The Diaspora by Gwendolyn Brooks and Wise I by Amiri Baraka
Readers
Levar Stoney | Mayor, City of Richmond
Melody Barnes | Co-Founder & Principal, MB2 Solutions LLC & Distinguished Fellow, University of Virginia School of Law
Marland Buckner | Co-Founder & Principal, MB2 Solutions LLC, Entrepreneur, & Board of Directors, Communities in Schools, Richmond
Dr. Bertram Ashe | Professor of English, University of Richmond
What is African American Read-In?
During the month of February, schools, churches, libraries, bookstores, community and professional organizations are urged to make literacy a significant part of Black History Month by hosting an African American Read-In. Sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and NCTE, and endorsed by the International Literacy Association, the goal the Read-In is to document readers making a celebration of African American literacy.
Symposium: The Horse in Ancient Greek Art
Horses hooved and winged, chariots, centaurs, and satyrs – the ancient Greeks were mad for horses. This symposium features contributors to The Horse in Ancient Greek Art catalogue and explores equestrian art and culture in ancient Greece, from the social prestige of owning and racing horses and chariots to the fabulous stories and myths the Greeks told about these creatures.
Symposium Schedule
Click here to download the symposium program.
Lunch Break
noon–1 pm
Afternoon Session
1–3 pm
“Mythological Horses in Ancient Greek Art”
Dr. John Oakley, Chancellor Professor and Forrest D. Murden, Jr. Professor, College of William & Mary
“Riders and Victors: Competing on Horseback in Archaic and Classical Greek Art”
Dr. Seth Pevnick, Chief Curator and Richard E. Perry Curator of Greek and Roman Art, Tampa Museum of Art
“From Myth to Mystery: The Chariot in Ancient Greek Art”
Dr. Peter Schertz, Jack and Mary Ann Frable Curator of Ancient Art, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Optional Curator’s Tour of the Exhibition
3:30-4 pm
Archaeology Forum
This program will feature six leading scholars and archaeologists from China and the United States addressing recent excavations, new research, and innovative approaches in archaeology. Topics range from new discoveries at the First Emperor’s mausoleum and Qin’s capital of Yongcheng, to Qin law inscribed on bamboo strips, bronze casting in the ancient Mediterranean, and archaeology at historic Jamestown.
For a complete schedule of events, click here to view the Forum Program.
Featured Speakers & Topics:
“Qin Shihuang’s Mausoleum and Terracotta Army: Recent Discoveries and Research”
Tian Jing, Deputy Director, Emperor Qin Shihuang’s Terracotta Army Site Museum, with Ting
Wang translating
“What was The Terracotta Army for?”
Dr. Eugene Wang, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Professor of Asian Art, Harvard University
“Archaeology at Yongcheng: 2016 Discovery of Xuechi Ritual Site”
Tian Yaqi, Chief of Department of Qin and Han Studies, Shaanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology, with Ting Wang translating
“Jamestown Rediscovered: How Geo-Archaeology Found Captain John Smith’s ‘Lost’ Colony”
Dr. William Kelso, (Hon.) CBE, FSA, Director of Archaeology, Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation
“Inscribed Bamboo Strips from Yunmeng: Evolution of Qin Law”
Tan Qianxue, Chief of Scientific Research Department, Shaanxi History Museum, with
William Neer assisting
“Bronze Casting in the Ancient Mediterranean World: Technique and Style”
Dr. Carol Mattusch, Mathy Professor of Art History, George Mason University
The Archaeology Forum is presented in conjunction with the special exhibition, Terracotta Army: Legacy of the First Emperor of China and generously supported by The Community Foundation Serving Richmond & Central Virginia and the Jeanann Gray Dunlap Foundation.
Related event:
Presented by the Archaeological Institute of America at the University of Richmond,
“Terracotta Warriors after the First Emperor: Re-evaluating the Qin Legacy in the Han”
Dr. Allison Miller, Assistant Professor of Asian Art with the Department of Art and Art History, Southwestern University
Thu, Feb 1, 6 pm
Free; tickets required
For details and tickets please see the AIA website.
2018 ChinaFest: Year of the Earth Dog
Celebrate the Lunar New Year and ChinaFest: Year of the Earth Dog!
Create an Earth Dog lantern and make your own watercolor lotus card. Enjoy demonstrations and colorful performances, including the Lion Dance, to welcome the Chinese New Year!
Parking: Overflow parking is available in First Baptist Church’s parking lot, located at the corner of Robinson Street and Park Avenue. No parking passes or vouchers required; parking is released on a first come first serve basis.
All times and locations are subject to change
Performances and Presentations
Yu Dance Arts
Theater, Level L
11:05–11:25 am & 1:20–1:40 pm
Atrium, Level 1
3–3:10 pm
Yu Dance Arts is a Richmond-based, youth dance group that focuses on creating and producing intercultural dances that combine Chinese traditional dances with modern Western aesthetics. This year, their fusion dance style will present an innovative look at Chinese dances.
Ryse Lion Dance Troupe at VCU
Theater, Level L
10:45–11 am & 1–1:15 pm
The Ryse Lion Dance Troupe at VCU is a traditional Lion Dancing Organization established in spring 2014 that practices the Fut San style of Lion Dance which originated in ancient Southern China. The Ryse Lion Dance Troupe has performed for various events such as the Richmond Ballet, weddings, and festivals.
The Pride: Lion Dance at UVA
Atrium, Level 1
noon–12:10 pm & 2–2:10 pm
The Pride: Lion Dance at UVA incorporates both traditional southern Chinese and contemporary styles. Watch as UVA performers collaborate inside a lion costume to mimic the movements and characteristics of the animal to the sounds of vigorous drumming.
Moy Yat Ving Tsun Kung Fu
Atrium, Level 1
11:30 am–noon & 1:30–2 pm
Watch and practice graceful warrior moves with Moy Yat Ving Tsun Kung Fu. This art was made popular by Grand Master Yip Man in the 1950’s and is best known by his student, movie legend, Bruce Lee!
Photo: Jon-Phillip Sheridan © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Artist Demonstrations
Tai Chi and Kite Coloring with George Mason University Confucius Institute
Marble Hall, Level 2
Tai Chi Demonstrations and Interactives:
11–11:25 am, noon–12:25 pm, & 1–1:25 pm
Kite Coloring:
10 am–3:30 pm
Join instructors from George Mason University Confucius Institute as they facilitate Tai Chi demonstrations and short interactive lessons. Also, take a moment to create your own decorative paper kite!
Calligraphy with William and Mary Confucius Institute
Conference Room 1, Level L
noon–4:30 pm
Join the College of William and Mary Confucius Institute as they practice the beautiful art of writing Chinese characters. Chinese calligraphy, the most revered fine art in China, is closely connected to Chinese culture, aesthetics, philosophy, and history. Staff members of WMCI have been trained extensively to perform Chinese calligraphy to promote the appreciation and understanding of this exquisite art.
Photo: Jon-Phillip Sheridan © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Language Interactive: Singalong
Marble Hall, Level 2
2:30–2:50 pm & 3:30–3:50 pm
Learn Chinese words and participate in sing-along songs led by students from University of Richmond.
Photo: Bridget Ganske © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Art Activities | Ongoing
Make your own Watercolor Lotus Card
Art Education Center, Studio 2
Make a paper card featuring the symbolic lotus flower lying on a watercolor pond.
Golden Tiger Paper Ornament
Art Education Center, Studio 1
Draw and paint a golden tiger like the one found in our ancient Chinese art collection.
Fitting with Tiger Design, 4th-3rd century BC, Chinese, nephrite. Adolph d. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund, 59.21.7
Paper Warrior and Horse Project
Marble Hall, Level 2
Use a paper template to create a warrior on horseback, inspired by VMFA’s special exhibition, Terracotta Army: Legacy of the First Emperor of China. Create decorative and ornate armor to adorn your warrior and horse.
Photo: Aimee Koch Grindon © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Zodiac Tangram
Marble Hall, Level 2
Decorate and construct one of the 12 zodiac signs using tangram pieces. Take your tangram puzzle home to create other designs!
Photo: Jon-Phillip Sheridan © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Create an Earth Dog Lantern with SCRAP RVA
Marble Hall, Level 2
Work with local creative reuse center, SCRAP RVA, to create a paper lantern that incorporates a paper “Earth Dog” figure.
Community Activities | Ongoing
Year of the Earth Dog Puppet Community Project
Atrium, Level 1
Assist local Artist, Lily Lamberta, along with All the Saints Theater Company, in creating a large-scale Earth Dog puppet!
Play and Construct!
Marble Hall, Level 2
Use oversized tangram shapes to create patterns and designs or experiment with Chinese Instruments. Use blocks to construct Chinese architectural monuments.
Chinese Film Showing
Early Childhood Classroom
Art Education Center, Level 1
Enjoy family friendly Chinese films as you relax in our Early Childhood Classroom!
Photo: Jay Paul © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Peony Tissue Paper Flower Garland
Atrium Landing, Level 2
Create a peony tissue paper flower to add to our collaborative flower garland and learn about Chinese flower symbolism. Watch as our garland decorates the museum landing.
Pagoda Playhouse and New Year Wishes
Atrium, Level 1
Interact with VMFA’s Pagoda Playhouse and write a wish on our paper lanterns and paper bats, which symbolize happiness and joy.
stART Space Gallery Hunt
stART Space, Art Education Center, Level 1
Pick up a gallery map at stART Space and explore our East Asian gallery and Teaching Gallery to find the Bactrian Camel. Collect a sticker when complete!
Bactrian Camel, 7th century, Unknown artist, earthenware with white glaze. Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund, 51.12.2
Community Voting Project & Prize Table
Atrium, Level 1
Stop by to vote for your favorite activity during today’s Family Day and receive a fun take-home prize.
VMFA’s Best Café
Atrium, Level 1
Pick up a tasty treat or try VMFA’s Chinese inspired cuisines.
Photo: David Stover © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Visit the VMFA East Asian Art Galleries!
Level 2
Explore our East Asian art galleries and find inspiration for your ChinaFest Art Activities!
century BC, Chinese, bronze with silver overlay. Arthur and Margaret Glasgow Fund, 67.9.2
Mirror with TLV Design, 2nd century BC, Chinese, bronze with silver overlay. Arthur and Margaret Glasgow Fund, 67.9.2
SAY CHEESE! Photographers and videographers are on duty at museum events to capture images for VMFA’s archives and publications. If you prefer not to have video or pictures taken of yourself or your family members, please notify the staff at the Welcome Table as soon as possible. You will be provided with a red sticker indicating that you and your family should not be photographed or recorded.
ChinaFest: Year of the Earth Dog is generously sponsored by:
SAVE THE DATE!
Join us for our upcoming Family Day events listed below!
Sat, Jun 16, 2018, 11 am-3 pm for Celebrate African and African American Art: Ethiopia
Sat, Sep 15, 2018, 11 am-3 pm for Celebrate the Art of Latin America: Patagonia
Conservation of African Art: the Meeting of Art & Science
Join Casey Mallinckrodt, Andrew Mellon Assistant Conservator for VMFA, as she discusses the conservation and technical analysis of objects in the museum’s African art collection. The talk will provide an overview of conservation and how a scientific analysis informs conservation treatment and reveals aspects of the cultural origins of objects in the collection.
Get Tickets
Artist Talk: Chester Higgins
Photographer Chester Higgins sees his “life as a narrative and [his] photography as its expression.” Join us for an evening with the artist as he discusses his life and work.
3 in 30: Chester Higgins and P. H. Polk
Explore the relationship between photographers Chester Higgins and P.H. Polk with Dr. Sarah Eckhardt, VMFA’s Associate Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, on this thirty minute gallery talk highlighting three works of art.
Daphne Maxwell Reid Book Signing – Virginia Photographic Artist
Daphne Maxwell Reid is best known as Aunt Vivian from the hit comedy, “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.” Her 40-year acting career is still vital with roles on many new television programs including the host of “Virginia Currents” on Richmond’s WCVE (PBS).
Ms. Reid is an avid photographer of DOORS from around the world. She exhibits and sells her collection entitled “Daphne Maxwell Reid’s Fresh Prints®” at speaking engagements, art gatherings, and on her website. Four beautifully published books of photographs, “DOORS,” “Opening Closed Doors: Cuba 2015,” “Belgium: Doors Old & New,” and “France,” (accounts of her worldwide journeys to capture the portals) are available on her website. Also available on the website, “Grace + Soul & Mother Wit: A Cookbook Spiced With Personal Memories”, which was 36 years in the making.
Barbara Mann of Mann Made Designs – Virginia Ceramic Artist Trunk Show
Barbara Mann is a professional, juried artisan. Her designs stem from doodles with playful brushstrokes and sometimes her background in Botany will sneak in. She likes to throw simple, classical form to use as a vehicle for her busy surfaces. For the most part, Barbara paints on greenware and once-fire, which saves energy. Each piece is produced with a loving reverence for the creative process. She says that her work does not attempt to make a social statement or to stretch the boundaries of what we think of as art; art isn’t required to search for the meaning of the cosmos. Her pieces are intended purely for the amusement of the visual sense, not necessarily for the intellect. “Beauty gives our souls a little refreshment so we can get on with the more mundane tasks of life.”
No tickets required.