Essential Art Museums in Virginia Worth Exploring
Discover the rich artistic landscape of Virginia with these two exceptional museums that cater to both history and contemporary art enthusiasts.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) in Richmond
Step into the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) in Richmond and immerse yourself in a world of art spanning over 5,000 years. With approximately 22,000 artworks in its collection, VMFA showcases masterpieces from renowned artists such as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, and many more.
The museum's impressive collection includes not only European works but also American, African, Asian, and Modern and Contemporary art. Highlights include Russian Fabergé jewels, ancient Greek and Egyptian statues, and Congolese masks.
The museum's campus covers 13.5 acres and boasts 545,000 square feet of exhibitions, eateries, and a museum shop. Its unique architectural blend of a 1936 English Renaissance-style building connected to new wings by a three-story glass atrium is a sight to behold.
Outside, the Sculpture Garden offers a serene setting for art appreciation, with sculptures set among a waterfall, reflecting pool, and landscaped slopes. Guided tours and audio guides are available to help you delve deeper into the cultural significance and techniques behind the artworks.
Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (Virginia MOCA) in Virginia Beach
For a contemporary art experience, head to the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (Virginia MOCA) in Virginia Beach. This museum focuses on ever-changing exhibitions that reflect diverse communities and shared humanity.
One of the highlights of Virginia MOCA is the annual Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show, an outdoor festival featuring nearly 200 artists from across the country, showcasing fine art across multiple mediums. The museum also offers interactive and thought-provoking exhibits, such as a mirror exhibit where smoke appears to come out of visitors' eyes.
Virginia MOCA is accessible, LGBT friendly, and offers free WiFi, making it an engaging cultural hub for diverse visitors. Surrounded by natural areas, it also features a short boardwalk and outdoor sculptures for visitors to enjoy.
These two museums—VMFA with its historical and global art collection, and Virginia MOCA with its contemporary and community-oriented exhibits—make for standout cultural destinations in Virginia. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or a curious novice, these museums offer valuable insights into the social, economic, and political forces that have influenced the region.
Additional Information
- VMFA Official Website
- Virginia MOCA Official Website
- Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show
- Virginia MOCA's Interactive Exhibits
Enjoy a mix of home-and-garden artistry and contemporary travels at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) and Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (Virginia MOCA) in Richmond and Virginia Beach, respectively. After experiencing the timeless artwork at VMFA, take a trip down the coast to Virginia MOCA, where exhibitions express diverse narratives and reflect shared humanity.
