Six spots to hold the perfect Valentine’s, Galentine’s or solo date in Richmond

Liz DeFluri, Contributing Writer Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and whether you have a beau, some gal pals or are flying solo The Commonwealth Times is here with a list of Valentine’s plans that are not just dinner and a movie. VMFA: Floris Tea Room and galleries For an unforgettable Valentine’s or Galentine’s date, […]
Film brings life, wider audience, better understanding to Cy Twombly

Anna Lopacinski, Contributing Writer People gathered in the Leslie Cheek Theater on Oct. 8 for a special screening of the documentary “Cy Dear,” paired alongside the ongoing “Cy Twombly, Morocco 1952/1953” exhibition at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. “Cy Dear” is a film that tells the story of the life and work of Cy […]
‘One of a kind experience’: People connect with and learn about Colombian art, culture

Ghailah Nyeanchi, Contributing Writer Underneath the glow of an orange spotlight, a dancer swirled her red and white skirt to a Colombian song while the audience clapped along to the rhythm. The crowd erupted in applause once the performance was finished. Dance Performances by the Latin Ballet of Virginia was one of the many presentations […]
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts celebrates Chinese culture

Peggy Stansbery, Staff Writer People of all ages experienced a lively lion dance, kung fu, enriching art activities and more inside the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts’ bright and open space. The museum had its ChinaFest: Year of the Water Rabbit Family Day on Sunday, Feb. 4. ChinaFest has been taking place annually at the […]
VCUarts alumna’s research highlights women, people of color in VMFA exhibition

Gabriela de Camargo Gonçalves, Spectrum Editor Selna Shi, Contributing Writer VCUarts graduate Madeleine Dugan spent her last semester at VCU researching and recontextualizing historical art for the “Man Ray: The Paris Years” exhibition at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. During this time, Dugan was responsible for helping to research the photographs featured in the […]
“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, […]
VCUarts alumna receives VMFA fellowship, looks to expand work

Grace McOmber, Contributing Writer LaRissa Rogers is not afraid to get her hands dirty when creating art that sparks conversation. With new funding from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and soil infused with history, Rogers continues to explore complex issues in her own unique style. “A Poetic of Living,” created by the 2019 painting […]
Fence surrounds Lee statue ahead of potential removal

Katharine DeRosa, News Editor The Virginia Department of General Services erected a fence around Marcus-David Peters Circle on Monday in preparation for the removal of the Robert E. Lee statue. The department stated the fencing is not intended to be permanent. “As we await the resolution of legal challenges that have delayed the statue’s removal, […]
Former VMFA employees come together with reform committee, petition

Iman Mekonen, Spectrum Editor Allegations of racism, sexual harrassment and other forms of discrimination have driven a group of current and former VMFA employees to speak out against the museum and demand reform. The Commonwealth Times spoke to members of the group, who wished to remain anonymous in fear of retaliation, regarding their demands. Names […]
Back to campus: Social distance, enjoy Richmond at these 6 outdoor, virtual activities

Rebecca Elrod, Contributing Writer Social distancing in Richmond doesn’t have to mean spending hours in your dorm –– you can still grab some popcorn at the local drive-in, go kayaking in the James River or mountain bike with fellow students. All of the activities in this guide are virtual or take place outdoors. Follow the […]