Culture from an old stable

One of the Fan District’s well-known cultural attractions is in a renovated 70-year-old stable.

Built from red brick and with a small fountain in the courtyard, the back entrance into the Anderson gallery has historic flair. A brick sidewalk leads the way down a nearly hidden alley, through a gate, up to a set of double doors and into the gallery.

Founded by Col. Abraham Archibald Anderson in 1931, the Anderson Gallery was partially created from a renovated stable that was once part of the Lewis Ginter Mansion.

“I (en)vision a wonderful future for Richmond as an art center,” said Anderson when he donated $10,000 for the founding of the museum in 1930. “The cities of the country will soon look to her with pride. If in my small way by word or work, I can help Richmond to achieve this noble result, I shall consider that I have not lived in vain.”

Anderson’s paintings made up the first exhibit in the gallery, formally known as the Anderson Gallery in 1970; this decision was made by the School of the Arts for VCU.

The Anderson Gallery, once known as the A. A. Anderson Gallery of Art, has been in operation for 72 years and has displayed hundreds of exhibits.

Situated at 907 1/2 W. Franklin St., the Anderson Gallery rates as a showcase for master artists as well a forum for VCU’s art students.

The gallery also provides a cultural experience for Richmond residents and the general public.

The Anderson Gallery has a permanent collection of 2,500 pieces. The collection includes pieces from famous artists such as Honor