“Violins of Hope RVA” honors Holocaust survivors, highlights connections to Virginia
Sahara Sriraman, Spectrum Editor Beautifully polished wooden violins sit delicately on their stands, surrounded by panes of glass, each telling a painful and personal story of the horrors experienced during the Holocaust. “Violins of Hope RVA,” an exhibit featuring violins that endured the Holocaust, utilizes these instruments to tell the stories of those who survived […]
“The Dirty South” reflects on community impact before leaving VMFA
Parker Barnes, Contributing Writer The sights and sounds of the American South, experienced between the walls of an art museum, make up “The Dirty South” exhibit, told through the lens of the Black experience in America. The exhibit, which is on display at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, includes a diverse modality of art, […]
‘Another Shot’: new short film from VCU alumnus explores the transgender experience
Hadia Moosvi, Contributing Writer Four years ago, VCU alumnus Arlen Kerndt didn’t expect his name to be on a big screen. Now, Kerndt’s short film is premiering soon at the Richmond International Film Festival. “It’s so affirming to get that kind of affirmation from a festival that runs in the city that gave this film […]
VCU alumna finds success with international Irish dancing company
Zahra Ndirangu, Contributing Writer Morgan Bullock began dancing at the age of three, but recalls being immediately enamored with the style of Irish dance after watching a recital at her dance school at the age of 10. “From then on I just knew I wanted to do it,” the VCU alumna said. “The next time […]
After a year of uncertainty, Richmond museums adjust to reopening while maintaining safety
Sahara Sriraman, Spectrum Editor Art institutions in Richmond have begun reopening and preparing exhibits in the midst of increased vaccine distribution. The COVID-19 pandemic caused these institutions to limit visitors and alter exhibits and events in the past year. The Institute for Contemporary Art is planning to carefully advance with the in-person events they have […]
DePillars building commemoration to celebrate late dean’s artistic, educational legacy
Jiana Smith, Contributing Writer Former VCUarts Dean Murry N. DePillars, known for his wide-rimmed glasses and his pipe, was somewhat of a pleasant presence on campus. As the first Black dean of VCUarts and one of the only Black deans on VCU’s campus in the early ’80s, many students and community members felt a lasting […]
‘It was an injustice’: VCU students assess mental health impact after student deaths
Sahara Sriraman, Staff Writer The deaths of freshman Adam Oakes on Feb. 26 and junior Cody Woodson on April 5 left an impact on VCU students. Some say these tragedies harmed their mental well-being. Charlie Dil, a computer science sophomore, said they knew Woodson personally. They were teaching assistants for a computer systems class, and […]
VCU seniors reflect on year of uncertainty, contemplate plans for the future
Sahara Sriraman, Staff Writer With less than a month until graduation, some VCU seniors are reflecting on their time at the university and the unexpected events that marked their final year of preparing for life after college. The university and its departments will hold various celebrations in accordance with Virginia’s COVID-19 guidelines. VCU’s virtual commencement […]
VCU labor union aims to improve wages, working conditions
Katharine DeRosa, News Editor Sahara Sriraman, Staff Writer University employees announced Monday the formation of a VCU chapter in the United Campus Workers of Virginia, a labor union that advocates for better working environments. The group organized a rally in Monroe Park and a march through campus to discuss and share the union’s goals. Contract […]
VCU students observe Ramadan despite new dining, COVID-19 limits
Sahara Sriraman, Contributing Writer Steaming samosas with a spicy filling, community prayers and close gatherings with loved ones are common elements observed during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. The COVID-19 pandemic and limited on-campus dining hours have made it difficult for VCU students to observe the month normally. “I think it’s different for a […]