Learn how historic Virginia buildings are preserved at talk with DHR expert

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Have you ever wondered how historic buildings are preserved? An expert from the Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR) will host a talk Thursday evening in Richmond, where attendees will learn more about the process.

From 6 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 17, at the Richmond Public Library's Main Branch, located at 101 E. Franklin St., attendees will hear from Blake McDonald, survey and grants specialist at the DHR. The event is presented by the Art Deco Society of Virginia.

McDonald will give a talk about the role of the DHR in preserving historic buildings in the state, including Art Deco structures like West Hospital.

According to the Encyclopædia Britannica, Art Deco was an international movement in decorative arts and architecture that originated in the 1910s and 1920s, characterized by a "sleek and anti-traditional elegance that symbolized wealth and sophistication."

The talk will be held in the Gellman Room in the original Art Deco section of the library. The event is free, according to organizers.