VMFA’s special programs to commemorate Virginia’s 250th anniversary of American Revolution

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — A series of programming and special exhibitions is coming to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) to observe and honor the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

The museum announced on Thursday, Jan. 8, its plans -- which kick off next month -- to observe the semiquincentennial milestone marking Virginia's role in the American Revolution. Among its programs are notable exhibitions, including one that brings renowned works to Virginians across the state.

"The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts aims to engage our visitors in an important and unique dialogue about Virginia's role in American history, emphasizing founding principles, current challenges and future aspirations," said director and CEO Alex Nyerges. "We're delighted to be one of the few art-centered institutions in Virginia involved in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution."

Visitors will have the opportunity to view the "Titus Kaphar and Junius Brutus Stearns: Pictures More Famous than the Truth" exhibition from Feb. 14 through July 26.

The exhibition will showcase works by artists Titus Kaphar, a MacArthur Fellowship winner, and Junius Brutus Stearns, centering on the life of former President George Washington. This marks the first time that Stearns's five paintings of the former president have been presented together, per VMFA.

Another exhibition, "Virginia as America: Navigating 'Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness,'" will also welcome visitors from February through December.

The exhibition will bring more than a dozen paintings, prints and decorative objects to within an hour's drive of all Virginians. The items are from VMFA's permanent collection and will travel aboard the museum's Artmobile, "VMFA on the Road."

Throughout the year, Virginia students in grades 3 through 12 and college students can engage in virtual distance-learning through the VMFA's "Historical Thinking with Art: VA250."

Students will have the opportunity to examine artworks reflecting the early years of America and hone historical, critical and creative thinking skills by unpacking founding ideas that shape the U.S.

As part of the programming, lectures and classes discussing content related to the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution will also be available at the VMFA.

For more information on the programs or about hosting "VMFA on the Road," visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.