RVANews

ARTBIEK in Carytown

Richard Hayes — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 17:50:15 +0000

Local Hills and Height's artist Keith Ramsey is taking his art to the streets. The ARTBIEK is inspired by “Bike Drawings from Memory,” a concept created by the Italian artist and designer Gianluca Gimini living in Bologna, Italy.

Rather than wait for a gallery the ARTBIEK is making it's logical appearance at local bike racks.

The main idea was not to mimic what Gimini has done with the drawings, but to create design from what the materials allowed me. Though I wanted to explore the visual characteristics that held my interest in Gimini’s renderings ( i.e. bold colors, interesting shapes, glossy finishes, etc,) I wanted to maintain a visceral reaction that made the viewer feel as though this impossible contraption could be ridden.
THE RESULT
The finished work was a bicycle, redesigned into a conceptual art piece. The motivation behind the FOUNDPUNK ARTBIEK is to share the reaction I had, and continue to have, when looking deeper at everyday objects such as bicycles. Realizing I’ve gained a new appreciation for those familiar designs.

You can check out and purchase more of Keith's work at his FOUNDPUNK studio located at ARTWORKS (320 Hull Street) in Manchester. There is however only one ARTBIEK at this time.

Don't hesitate in heading over because the studio spot will be closing up at the end of next month but you'll always be able to find him online.

Image: Keith Ramsey

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ARTBIEK in Carytown

Richard Hayes — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 15:47:35 +0000

Local artist Keith Ramsey is taking his art to the streets. The ARTBIEK is inspired by “Bike Drawings from Memory,” a concept created by the Italian artist and designer Gianluca Gimini living in Bologna, Italy.

Rather than wait for a gallery the ARTBIEK is making it's logical appearance at local bike racks.

The main idea was not to mimic what Gimini has done with the drawings, but to create design from what the materials allowed me. Though I wanted to explore the visual characteristics that held my interest in Gimini’s renderings ( i.e. bold colors, interesting shapes, glossy finishes, etc,) I wanted to maintain a visceral reaction that made the viewer feel as though this impossible contraption could be ridden.
THE RESULT
The finished work was a bicycle, redesigned into a conceptual art piece. The motivation behind the FOUNDPUNK ARTBIEK is to share the reaction I had, and continue to have, when looking deeper at everyday objects such as bicycles. Realizing I’ve gained a new appreciation for those familiar designs.

You can check out and purchase more of Keith's work at his FOUNDPUNK studio located at ARTWORKS (320 Hull Street) in Manchester. There is however only one ARTBIEK at this time.

Don't hesitate in heading over because the studio spot will be closing up at the end of next month but you'll always be able to find him online.

Image: Keith Ramsey

Films on the Floodwall needs your film

Richard Hayes — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 15:07:32 +0000

This was posted on the Westover Hill Neighborhood Association Facebook and know there are plenty of talented and creative folks in this neighborhood to provide the necessary films.

Request for Films from the James River Association:

Films on the Floodwall (link to last year's event) is a free community film screening organized by the James River Advisory Council, James River Outdoor Coalition, and James River Association during James River Week. The event is held at Diversity Park in the James River Park System and films are projected onto the floodwall.
Local filmmakers are encouraged to submit original films to be screened at the event. Film submissions will be accepted through August 28, 2016 until 11:59 pm. Selected films will be screened at Films on the Floodwall Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at 6:00 pm. Films must be original and created after January 1, 2016.
Please submit films to Justin Doyle of the James River Association via email at jdoyle at jrava.org or on a DVD via mail:
Films on the Floodwall
c/o James River Association
4833 Old Main Street
Richmond, VA 23231
Please contact Justin Doyle of the James River Association at jdoyle at jrava.org if you have any questions.

RVA Beer Explorer: Piggy, Pretty, New Sedona, Pass the Bottle

Richard Hayes — Wed, 20 Jul 2016 18:59:28 +0000

bottled up

A big step in any brewery is getting their beers into cans and bottles. This Saturday at noon, Garden Grove will be taking that step and hosting their First Ever Bottle Release. The beer they've chosen to bottle is ominously called "DEATH". Will you be cheating death if you buy it or will you need to steal a friend's to truly cheat death?

“DEATH” is a 10% ABV unfiltered Belgian Style Ale made with VA-grown red wine grapes from the 2014 harvest, and aged over one year in red wine barrels. This extremely limited brew began fermentation before the taproom opened it’s doors in February 2015. The wine grapes used were grown by Head Brewer Michael Brandt using organic methods.
The brew’s name was inspired by Albrecht Dürer’s 1513 engraving “Knight, Death, and the Devil” and features a high quality reproduction of the work on it’s label.

Sedona double

Occasionally you find yourselves in the wilds of Henrico county and are craving a beer and not sure where to turn. Soon you'll have an option in Sedona Taphouse. Richmond BizSense.com announced that Sedona will be going up in the NuckolsPlace Shopping Center at 5400 Wyndham Forest Way. This will be the second location in the Richmond area, fourth in Virginia and the seventh in the country. Cheers Henrico.

This little piggy went to the Cask

The Cask Cafe has great beer and a limited menu. To offset that limitation they occasionally have a pop-up event feature local food all stars. On Wednesday the 27th you won't be able to park in their parking lot but you'll be able to dine on delicious pork. Mike Braune and Adam Hall will be smoking a whole pig and some sides to go along with. Not only that there will be special Ardent beers to wash it down. Details on the book of faces.

Don't you look pretty

I've always thought Center of the Universe had a pretty nice setup. I have no learned that I have a pretty low bar for nice. They good folks in Ashland have stepped up the swank level to oh-la-la. A redesigned tasting room and a corporate space look great as you can see above. There will be an open house on for everyone to check it out. No idea if a red velvet rope will be in place, I tend to think not since they're always so damn welcoming.

beeragram

https://instagram.com/p/BH_-cSwA__A/

Instagram: Great Shiplock Park

Richard Hayes — Wed, 20 Jul 2016 13:13:17 +0000

It's a jungle out there....#shiplockpark #jrps #jamesriver #howdoyouriver #rva #rvanews #explorerichmond #visitrichmond #virginiacities #exploreva #loveva #visitvirginia #virginiacapitaltrail #rvatrails #canon #70d
A photo posted by Rick Chittick (@chitticksadventures) on Jul 16, 2016 at 6:29pm PDT

VHS offers sweet new class on the history of candy

Trevor Dickerson — Tue, 19 Jul 2016 14:43:56 +0000

From the Virginia Historical Society:

Join us on Thursday, July 28, at 5:30 p.m. for something truly delicious. Susan Benjamin will lead a class, "From the First Candy to Retro Treats," and take us through the history of candy, beginning with the very first sweets to favorites from the mid-1900s. (YES, there will be samples.)
Specific topics will include:
How the American love of candy began
Native American foods
The role Virginia played in creating the candy we eat today
The use of candy as medicine and during wars
Tickets are $25/VHS members and $30/nonmembers. Register by Thursday, July 21.
Class participants should enter the VHS using the Carole and Marcus Weinstein Learning Center.

Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Virginia Historical Society announces new exhibit spotlighting Thomas Jefferson

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 18 Jul 2016 14:18:05 +0000

From the Virginia Historical Society:

On October 15, 2016, the Virginia Historical Society (VHS) and Altria Group will present The Private Jefferson: From the Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society as a new special exhibition in the Virginia Sargeant Reynolds gallery. Admission to the exhibition is free for VHS members.
Beginning in 1898, the large collection of Thomas Jefferson’s private papers was given to the Massachusetts Historical Society (MHS) by the president’s great-grandson, Thomas Jefferson Coolidge of Boston. The exhibition is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view in Richmond papers that left Virginia nearly one hundred fifty years ago, following Jefferson’s death and the marriage of his granddaughter Ellen Wayles Randolph to Joseph Coolidge of Boston.
Jefferson gave to the world the American vision that “all men are created equal” and are entitled to the “inherent & inalienable” rights of “life, & liberty, & the pursuit of happiness.” Exhibition viewers will be able to read those words in Jefferson’s personal handwritten copy of the Declaration of Independence, as well as in the draft of the Declaration as it was edited by his fellow committee members, and in a copy of the first printing of the Declaration distributed in Philadelphia in 1776. All three documents are extremely rare and are among the most important in American history.
Jefferson’s innumerable contributions to the nation’s founding and development include his service as governor of Virginia, as congressman, as minister to France, as secretary of state under George Washington, as vice president under John Adams, and as third president of the United States. He is revered also for his decisions to make the Louisiana Purchase and establish the military academy at West Point and for designing some of the greatest buildings in America.
Jefferson was not untouched by controversy. He hated slavery, which he called a “moral depravity,” and in 1784 he almost succeeded in passing in Congress a ban of slavery in the territories. But he continued to hold slaves at Monticello. One biographer has labeled Jefferson an “American Sphinx.” The Jefferson papers provide windows into his personality and motivations.
William Rasmussen, Lead Curator and Lora Robins Curator at the VHS, says, “Jefferson was interested, it seems, in everything—from the sciences to the cultures of Native Americans, from religious beliefs to gadgets at Monticello. He spoke five languages. What I find so extraordinary about him is the breadth and brilliance of his intellect. In architecture, for example, few Americans to this day have matched Jefferson’s accomplishments.”
VHS members receive complimentary admission to all special exhibitions. Admission for nonmembers is $10 per person. The exhibition will be on display through January 15, 2017, and is generously sponsored by Altria Group. The Private Jefferson is organized by the Massachusetts Historical Society.
The Virginia Historical Society (VHS)—a privately funded nonprofit organization—collects, preserves, and interprets the Commonwealth’s history, linking past with present to inspire future generations. The VHS is located at 428 North Boulevard in Richmond’s Museum District. Hours are Monday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. for the galleries and museum shop, Monday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. for the library. For more information about the VHS call (804) 358-4901, visit vahistorical.org, or connect with the VHS on Facebook and Twitter.

Instagram: The Beatle Mural

Richard Hayes — Fri, 15 Jul 2016 12:26:42 +0000

Repost from @streetartnews of yesterday's progress. ? @tostfilms #streetart #artwhino #richmondmuralproject
A photo posted by ASVP (@asvpart) on Jul 14, 2016 at 7:47am PDT

“Faces of RVA” teen art exhibit opens in August at Atlas

Richard Hayes — Thu, 14 Jul 2016 14:52:56 +0000

Teens expressing themselves through art deserve all the support they can get. Consider checking this exhibit out on opening night during Friday, August 5th's Art Walk.

"Faces of RVA," an exhibition of mixed media portraits, opens August 5 and spotlights ART 180's most recent projects in creative expression.
Led by Noah Scalin and Shelia Gray, ART 180's Teen Leadership Council considered a new perspective on their hometown by exploring portraits of its people. For this series, teens worked with historical images of African American Richmonders from the collection of The Valentine, many of whom little or nothing is known about. The young artists created stories about these unknown residents that provided context for who they may have been. They used a variety of materials-such as buttons, feathers, cereal or sequins-to recreate these portraits which honor individuals almost lost to history.
A second series of portraits let the young artists focus on individuals who are important to them.
ART 180 will host an opening reception for the exhibition on Friday, August 5, from 6-9 p.m. during First Fridays Art Walk. The reception is family friendly, open to the public, and features an all-ages activity. The show will remain on display at Atlas, ART 180's art center for teens, through August 25. Atlas is located at 114 W. Marshall St. in Jackson Ward and is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and by appointment.

Art by Christopher Bolling, image provided by ART 180

Thirteen bands over two nights with Commonwealth of Notions 6

Richard Hayes — Mon, 11 Jul 2016 15:42:37 +0000

Commonwealth of Notions Presents: Volume Six, a music festival benefitting WRIR LP 97.3 FM, will feature 13 amazing bands over two nights at two of Richmond’s finest music venues. The festival opens on Friday July 22nd at Gallery 5, then moves to Strange Matter on Saturday July 23rd.

WRIR’s popular Commonwealth of Notions program airs every Thursday from 3PM – 5PM and focuses on the local Richmond music scene. This music series is the live-and-in-person manifestation of the program and clearly shows WRIR's commitment to supporting the local scene.

Image: Commonwealth of Notions 6 Facebook

Richmond Mural Project is back

Richard Hayes — Mon, 11 Jul 2016 12:07:17 +0000

There was recently a local brouhaha about the murals in the local media. I avoided reading it because I think of art as a person I'm meeting for the first time. Some I'm going to immediately like, some I don't like, some bring me joy, others I'd rather not see again. These are strictly my feelings and opinions. Others may disagree with me about every single one. The point being that it's alright not to like everything and everyone but there is someone out there for everyone and every work of art. I love showing off the murals to visitors and nary a one has said anything negative about them as a whole. I'm fully entrenched in the Pro Murals camp.

Starting next week people will have a brand new set of walls at which to be unjustifiably angry about. The link below is worth exploring if you haven't been in town for the four previous Richmond Mural Projects. It gives you the details on the previous 86 murals and a chance to see them without melting in the July heat.

From Art Whino:

Art Whino returns to Richmond, VA for the Fifth installment of the Richmond Mural Project. This year marks we celebrate reaching our short term goal of 100 Murals. The short term goal was established to reach critical mass of murals in which visitor to Richmond to see the murals would not only take a weekend trip but several trips with the vast of murals spanning from the Fan to the VMFA. With 86 murals since the inception of the project, the roster of artists who have participated are some of the highest regarded muralists in the world. This year Art Whino will return bringing another 10 muralists for another round of murals and as in every year will bring a diverse mix of artistic styles to show a cross section of what is forefront of the mural world.
RICHMOND MURAL PROJECT INFO:
July 11- July 22nd
Muralist begin painting the week of July 13th and will finish their murals by July 24th
Mural Locations: Various Locations
Locations listed here
Kickoff Reception July 11th 8-11pm
Come out and give a warm welcome to the muralists
Thirst & Fifth
Hilton Richmond Downtown
501 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219
RSVP Only event. RSVP Here
All ages event
Main Reception July 16th 8pm - Midnight
Sabai
2727 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
RSVP Only event. RSVP Here
Dj Mic Murphy- Funk and soul
Dj Weirdsailboat- Obscure Boogie
DJ Williams- Acoustic latin hip hop
All ages event
100 Mural Celebration July 21st 8pm - 11pm
Casa Del Barco
320 S 12th St, Richmond, VA 23219
RSVP Only event. RSVP Here
Photo Recap of 5 years & Sign up to receive
the Richmond Mural Project Book
All ages event

Image: Art Whino

Richmond Mural Project is back starting next week

Richard Hayes — Fri, 08 Jul 2016 15:57:45 +0000

From Art Whino:

Art Whino returns to Richmond, VA for the Fifth installment of the Richmond Mural Project. This year marks we celebrate reaching our short term goal of 100 Murals. The short term goal was established to reach critical mass of murals in which visitor to Richmond to see the murals would not only take a weekend trip but several trips with the vast of murals spanning from the Fan to the VMFA. With 86 murals since the inception of the project, the roster of artists who have participated are some of the highest regarded muralists in the world. This year Art Whino will return bringing another 10 muralists for another round of murals and as in every year will bring a diverse mix of artistic styles to show a cross section of what is forefront of the mural world.
RICHMOND MURAL PROJECT INFO:
July 11- July 22nd
Muralist begin painting the week of July 13th and will finish their murals by July 24th
Mural Locations: Various Locations
Locations listed here
Kickoff Reception July 11th 8-11pm
Come out and give a warm welcome to the muralists
Thirst & Fifth
Hilton Richmond Downtown
501 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219
RSVP Only event. RSVP Here
All ages event
Main Reception July 16th 8pm - Midnight
Sabai
2727 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
RSVP Only event. RSVP Here
Dj Mic Murphy- Funk and soul
Dj Weirdsailboat- Obscure Boogie
DJ Williams- Acoustic latin hip hop
All ages event
100 Mural Celebration July 21st 8pm - 11pm
Casa Del Barco
320 S 12th St, Richmond, VA 23219
RSVP Only event. RSVP Here
Photo Recap of 5 years & Sign up to receive
the Richmond Mural Project Book
All ages event

Image: Art Whino

Coffee With Strangers sits down with the King of Pops

Trevor Dickerson — Tue, 05 Jul 2016 14:42:01 +0000

Coffee With Strangers, the weekly video series in which Kelli Lemon interviews notable and interesting Richmonders, features Paul Cassimus this week. Cassimus is the owner of King of Pops (all-natural, locally made popsicles) and The Reign (gourmet sandwiches)–both in Scott's Addition.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FO64tDlVIIw

Read and watch more here.

VHS offering half price admission to “Gridiron Glory” for Independence Day weekend

Trevor Dickerson — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 13:04:45 +0000

From the VHS:

Active duty and retired military can visit the VHS to purchase half price tickets to the special exhibition, "Gridiron Glory: The Best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame," in honor of Independence Day. Receive this special discount when you purchase tickets Saturday, July 2, through Monday, July 4, on site only. Tickets purchased during this Independence Day promotion may be reserved for any date and time through September 4.
Children who visit the VHS during our Independence Day promotion will receive free miniature American flags. No purchase necessary.
Organized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Gridiron Glory presents the story of professional football—from its beginning in the late nineteenth century to the cultural phenomenon it is today. Artifacts in the exhibition include such storied objects as a Super Bowl trophy, Tom Dempsey’s famous kicking shoe created for his half-foot, “Mean Joe” Greene’s helmet, and more than 200 other items. A wide range of hands-on interactives allows visitors to feel the weight of a player's shoulder pads, try on a helmet and hear recorded calls from a game, or test their knowledge in an “NFL Instant Replay.” Other interactives explore the science and technology of the game. Photography, unique documents, and film footage bring the football experience to life.
Free for VHS members, and children 6 and under (reserve online)
$10 for active duty military, veterans, and their guests during this Independence Day promotion (reserve on site only)
$20 for nonmembers (reserve online)

Learn more and purchase tickets online here.

The Byrd Theatre pays tribute to America and the motion picture palace Saturday

Trevor Dickerson — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 13:01:24 +0000

This Saturday, there won't be fireworks, but there will be plenty of memorable melodies and fancy footwork. On Saturday, July 2nd at 10:00 AM, The Byrd's ongoing "Family Classics" series will turn back the clock to celebrate America's Independence through song and dance, featuring Yankee Doodle Dandy. The 1942 wartime musical stars James Cagney in a musical-biography of Broadway legend George M. Cohan.

All Family Classics continue to include a special performance by Bob Gulledge on the Mighty Wurlitzer and a classic Warner Brothers cartoon. Admission is The Byrd's standard rate of $2.00.

The movie palace will also be opening its doors for a free theatre tour and Mighty Wurlitzer Organ demonstration. From backstage to the balcony, visitors can learn about the theatre's decor, rare marble and two-and-a-half ton crystal chandelier, original set of Brounet murals, and even its ghosts. Guests will then receive a private demo of the Mighty Wurlitzer theatre organ, witnessing some of the unique sound effects, all made from hand crafted instruments housed in four rooms over the proscenium.

The tour will begin at approximately 1:00 PM following the conclusion of Yankee Doodle Dandy. Donations to the Byrd Theatre Foundation are welcome.

Free theater, dance, music, visual arts workshops at Dominion Arts Center this Saturday

Richard Hayes — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 15:30:50 +0000

Doors open to the public – 10:00 a.m.
Registration – 10:30 a.m.
Sessions – 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
On June 25, the Genworth Lights Up! Youth Open House returns to Dominion Arts Center. This free event offers more than 30 participatory workshops, lecture-demonstrations and performances in the visual and performing arts for children and youth ages 3 to 18. Doors open at 10:00 a.m. and registration opens at 10:30 a.m. Workshops, lectures/demonstrations and performances run from noon until 5 p.m. Session registration is first come, first served, so please arrive on time.
A few examples of this year's sessions include African Caribbean Drumming presented by the Latin Ballet of Virginia, Safe Swordplay with Quill Theatre and Music Theatre Intensive by SPARC. Our Digital Arts Lab will be open all day for a continuous “Introduction to Video Production” class, and Art 180 will take place in Showcase Gallery with multiple visual arts making stations. Whether you have years of experience in the arts or this is your first time inside Dominion Arts Center, there's something for everyone.

Art 180 helping teens find their singing voice with free workshop tonight

Richard Hayes — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 14:32:57 +0000

From Facebook:

The always fabulous Nickey McMullen is leading a free singing workshop for teens tomorrow (Friday) 4-6pm followed by a teen open mic 6-8pm. Call 233-4180 to reserve a spot in the workshop!

Can’t Stop the Feeling! – VCU edition

Richard Hayes — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 13:03:22 +0000

Frank Turner and Jason Isbell find a bit of time for tennis at Abner Clay Park

Richard Hayes — Thu, 23 Jun 2016 19:23:05 +0000

This video which should be appearing before every match at Wimbledon features Frank Turner, Jason Isbell, Lindsay McMullen, and The Sleeping Souls.

The song Love Forty Down is from the album "Positive Songs For Negative People", out now on Xtra Mile / Polydor / Interscope.

Last Friday Cheers of the season is upon us

Richard Hayes — Thu, 23 Jun 2016 12:48:21 +0000

The last Friday Cheers of the season is this week. You'll have to find another spot to stand with friends, neighbors, and strangers and listen to great music on the cheap. Good luck with that.

The music series is closing out with Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors along with Major And The Monbacks.

Tickets for the Long Island Medium go on sale Friday

Richard Hayes — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 14:13:02 +0000

From Altria Theater:

Theresa Caputo, from TLC’s hit show, Long Island Medium, will be appearing live at Altria Theater on Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 7:30 p.m. Theresa will share personal stories about her life and explain how her gift works. She will deliver healing messages to audience members and give people comfort knowing that their loved ones who passed are still with them, just in a different way. Tickets go on sale Friday, June 24 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at AltriaTheater.com, charge by phone (800) 514-3940, or at the Altria Theater box office. Tickets start at $39.75 (plus applicable service charges) and are subject to change. Purchasing a ticket does not guarantee a reading.
“The Experience” brings Theresa face-to-face with her fans, as she lets spirit guide her through the audience. A video display ensures everyone in the venue has an up-close-hands-on experience regardless of seat location. “The experience isn’t about believing in mediums. It’s about witnessing something life-changing” says Theresa Caputo. “It’s like Long Island Medium live, witnessing first-hand spirit communication.”
The highly-rated show Long Island Medium follows Theresa’s life as a typical Long Island wife and mom with one very big difference…she can communicate with the dead. Since she cannot “turn off” this gift, messages from departed loved ones can come through at any time, which lead to spontaneous readings with those she encounters.
Theresa has appeared on such programs as “Jay Leno,” “Jimmy Fallon,” “Steve Harvey,” “Live with Kelly and Michael,” “Dr. Oz,” & “The Today Show.” Theresa’s second book titled “You Can’t Make This Stuff Up” was released in September 2014 and debuted at #9 on the NY Times Best Seller List. Her first book titled “There’s More to Life Than This” debuted in the fall of 2013.
Theresa has been a practicing medium for over 15 years. She helps individuals find closure by delivering healing messages. For Theresa, this is not just her job... this is her life. Learn more about Theresa at theresacaputo.com.

At the Broadberry

Richard Hayes — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 16:28:09 +0000

Join Nutzy & “The Beast” and celebrate Father’s Day at The Byrd Theatre

Trevor Dickerson — Thu, 16 Jun 2016 14:28:11 +0000

From The Byrd Theatre & Foundation:

Celebrate Dad this Father’s Day weekend and the “great American pastime” at our Family Classics premiere of The Sandlot, at the Byrd Theatre in Carytown. Join Richmond’s favorite mascot Nutzy, of the Flying Squirrels, at the theatre to take pictures, sign autographs and enjoy giveaways. Complimentary coffee will be served courtesy of Carytown’s Area 10 Faith Community. Put on your PF Flyers and head to the Byrd!
The past four weeks, the Byrd has introduced a new Saturday morning series with classic family films each Saturday, voted online by Richmond movie lovers. All Family Classics are preceded by a special performance by Bob Gulledge on the Mighty Wurlitzer and a classic Warner Brothers cartoon. Each event is offered at the regular $1.99 admission.
Previous shows featured The Wizard of Oz, E.T. the Extra Terrestrial, The Goonies and Babe. The schedule now gets an extension through Summer:
June 18: The Sandlot - 1993, age 8+
June 25: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang - 1968, age 6+
July 2: Yankee Doodle Dandy - 1942, age 4+
July 9: Shrek - 2001, age 6+
July 16: Annie - 1982, age 6+
July 23: My Neighbor Tortoro - 1988, age 5+
July 30: Charlotte’s Web - 1973, age 5+
August 6: Iron Giant - 1999, age 6+
August 13: The Land Before Time - 1988, age 6+
August 20: Charlie Chaplin's The Kid & The Red Balloon - 1921/1957, age 7+
August 27: The King & I - 1956, age 8+
September 3: Willy Wonka - 1971, age 8+
September 9: The Music Man - 1962, age 6+
The box office will open at 9:30 a.m. with events beginning at 10:00 a.m. Family Classics follow the regular admission price, just $1.99.

Fans are encouraged to continue suggesting additional Saturday titles and themes by visiting the Byrd Theatre website here.

Photo by: Joey Wharton

Winter is coming and so are the drinks

Richard Hayes — Wed, 15 Jun 2016 15:40:44 +0000

If you're a fan of Game of Thrones or just a fan of drinking at a bunch of bars this Saturday is your time to shine. Impress members of the opposite sex by reciting the entire genealogical lines of the House Lannister whilst sipping on a PBR or other beverage that lends itself readily to initials see T&T.

Kidding aside it's a good cause and for $10 you get tee shirt, mug, and drink specials to fill the mug. Not only that there is a chance you could win a prize. No word on if it's a throne made of swords.

From Eventbrite:

The 3rd Annual G.O.T. Bar Crawl is coming.... (Saturday, June 18, 2016 from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM)
Choose your House, and join us Saturday, June 18th, for a day in battle! The day begins at your house, where registration will take place from 12-1pm. Collect your map, mug & game attire, and a drink of liquid courage! You'll need it...As this will be a day to show endurance & strength! Proceed on to conquer the other houses, gaining a coordinating stamp on your map at each castle. Once you have conquered each house, turn in your completed map for your chance to win! Prizes to be announced!
Choose your House wisely! The $10 Ticket into your House will get you a Map, Mug, House T-Shirt, & Drink Specials! Although we are providing shirts, costumes & props are highly recommended!
Proceeds Benefit Fan Free Clinic!
Social 52 - House Stark
Star-Lite - House Greyjoy
3 Monkeys - House Arryn
Metro Grill - House Targaryen
F.W. Sullivan's - House Baratheon
Lady N'awlins - House Lannister
Sticky Rice - House Tyrell

Image: Eventbrite/Heather Dixon

This week at Balliceaux

Richard Hayes — Tue, 14 Jun 2016 15:11:05 +0000

Image: Balliceaux

Richmond SPCA hosting 4th annual “Plein Air Richmond” art event June 19th – 24th

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 13 Jun 2016 14:28:32 +0000

From the Richmond SPCA:

This month, Brazier Gallery will host the 4th Annual Plein Air Richmond. There are a few different components to this weeklong event which brings together 30 juried artists from across the United States and Canada.
From June 19-24, artists will spread out around Richmond to paint its many views en plein air, typically in oil and watercolor, capturing moments around our beautiful city. The public is invited to observe artists at work.
When the week of painting ends, the event culminates in a series of opportunities to share these pieces. A ticketed Collectors’ Reception Preview and Sale will be held on Friday, June 24 at Brazier Gallery allowing interested buyers a chance to view and purchase pieces painted the week before.
Saturday morning painters will participate in a “Fast and Fresh” two hour painting competition in Carytown. All pieces from the week will be available for public viewing and purchase for the duration of the weekend, June 25 and 26 with 25% of proceeds benefitting the Richmond SPCA.
According to Loryn Brazier who launched the event in 2012, participating artists consider this event to be one of the top plein air events in the country. We would love to involve as many art and Richmond lovers as we can.

Learn more on the event website.

Stop Making Sense and get to Forest Hill Park on Sunday for live music

Richard Hayes — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 14:23:38 +0000

June Festivals: Friday Cheers; Beer, Bourbon, and BBQ; Stone Soul; and BACON

Rachel Marsh — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 13:51:37 +0000

Photo by: jeffreyw

Friday Cheers

Dang, you missed Friday Cheers last month? That's such a bummer because it's completely gone until next year. JUST KIDDING, Friday Cheers is still going strong every week for the rest of June! That means a whole other month of incredible bands and food trucks and craft beer, under the sun and next to the river.

Every Friday through the end of June
Brown's Island
$5 - $10

Beer, Bourbon, and BBQ Festival

This festival will highlight the finest local wines, vodkas, and salad selection that Richmond has to offer. No, just kidding, although that sounds like it would be a pleasant festival too.

Saturday, June 11th • 12:00-6:00 PM
Richmond International Raceway Complex, 600 E. Laburnum Avenue
$39

Stone Soul Music Festival

Some of the best R&B, gospel, and contemporary musicians, all in one place, all local, and all live.

Saturday, June 11th • 1:00 PM
Classic Amphitheater at the Richmond International Raceway Complex, 600 E. Laburnum Avenue
$50

Bacon Festival

Bacon cures all things. Hunger, hangovers, depression, fights. If only the Bacon Festival had been around during the Civil War, we might never have had this North vs. South disagreement. I bet even Jefferson Davis would have given in for a bacon-wrapped hot dog.

Sunday, June 12th • 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
17th Street Farmers' Market, 100 N. 17th Street
Free!

2nd Best Fest

Hysterical improvisers from all over the country, blending with our hysterical improvisers here in town, to present an explosion of brilliant shows and workshops all weekend long. It's the second best comedy festival, brought to you by the number one comedy theater in Richmond.

Thursday, June 16th - Saturday, June 18th • see site for times
Coalition Theater, 8 W. Broad Street
$5 - $10 per show

Big Field Day

For everyone that grew up in the 90s, the fact that blink-182 is headlining should be a deal-sealer. Imagine all of those songs that were so relevant to your life during every homecoming and prom, in person. And this time you don't have to dance with everyone at arm's length.

Saturday, June 18th • 2:00 PM
SERVPRO Richmond Pavilion, 4901 Lakebrook Drive, Glen Allen
$25

Slide the City

There's been such a push lately for more bike-friendly streets in the city, I think we all forgot about the waterslide alternative mode of transportation. This event benefits the Special Olympics!

Saturday, June 18th
3rd Street and Byrd Street
$45

Father's Day Keg n' Oyster Festival

Raw oysters! Fried oysters! Crab cakes! Craft beer! Or just get your dad a tie again this year. Whatever.

Sunday, June 19th • 12:00 - 6:00 PM
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, 2408 Ownby Lane
Free to attend!

Vegetarian Festival

You know how at the Bacon Festival you fill yourself with bacon and everything smells like bacon and there are pictures of pigs and there are foods made with bacon that it never occurred to you could be made with bacon? Well the Vegetarian Festival is exactly like that, except the complete opposite.

Saturday, June 25th • 12:00-6:00 PM
Bryan Park, 4308 Hermitage Road
Free!

— ∮∮∮ —

Previously

Greek Festival

Is it too outdated to make a "My Big Fat Greek Festival" joke? Probably. Either way, grab yourself some spanakopita (or, like, an entire tray), some stuffed grape leaves (or, perhaps, an entire bucket), some Greek wine (or, you know, an entire bottle), and enjoy one of the oldest and most delicious festivals in town. Wait, isn't My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 coming out soon? Okay, reference is relevant again.

Thursday, June 2nd - Sunday, June 5th • see site for times
Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Malvern Avenue
Free to attend!

Ashland Strawberry Faire

What's the best part about summer? No, not the warm weather. No, not the beach. No, not the vacations. It's the fact that strawberries are now in season, of course. Celebrate with live music, hundreds of vendors, something called a "Strawberry Pageant," and the fruit itself, red finger stains guaranteed.

Saturday, June 4th • 10:00 - 5:00 PM
Randolph-Macon College, 204 Henry Street, Ashland
Free!

Chalk Up the Town

Remember in May when you tearfully crossed this event off your calendar because of that stupid rain that wouldn't leave us alone? Well put it back on your weekend to-do list, because Chalk Up the Town 2016 is really happening this time, to brighten up your spirits and the sidewalks of Carytown.

Saturday, June 4th • 4:00 - 7:00 PM
Carytown
Free!

Broad Appétit

Richmond has a huge ongoing problem. I am of course referring to the overwhelming selection of restaurants that we are all dying to try, but don't have the time, funds, or stomach capacity. Fortunately for us, Broad Appétit has taken it upon themselves to put some of the best local restaurants in one condensed spot, loaded them up with their signature dishes, and heaped everything into tapas-sized servings for just $3 per plate.

Sunday, June 5th • 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
W. Broad Street, between Henry and Adams
Free to attend! Just $3 per plate!

Off the Shelf: Two local YA authors and one wild trilogy

Julie Glover — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 13:45:48 +0000

Traitor Angels by Anne Blankman

Traitor Angels in the eerie memorial park on Hampton Street

In 1666 England, King Charles II sits on the throne and the Great Fire of London approaches. In Anne Blankman's 1666 England, John Milton's imprisoned by the king and his daughter, Elizabeth Milton, must save him. Elizabeth (and an attractive Italian scientist, Antonio Vivani) must uncover secrets hidden within her father's masterpiece, Paradise Lost. There's sword fighting, fancy clothing, horse chases, disguises, literary references, and a really big fire. This YA historical thriller by a Richmond resident is a must for this summer's vacation reading list.

Burn Baby Burn by Meg Medina

Burn Baby Burn on the bridge to Texas Beach

Another piece of YA historical fiction by another local author! Meg Medina transports the reader to New York City in the summer of 1977. Noteworthy events include the Son of Sam murders and the disastrous blackout. With the city in a general state of paranoia and anxiety, Nora Lopez is on the brink of graduating high school. She dreams of escaping her complicated and violent home life, but societal road blocks continue to take shape. Luckily, she has a strong community (and an endearing love interest) to guide her through. Packed with strong female characters and a killer soundtrack, prepare to lose yourself in disco beats and car rides.

Ravicka Trilogy by Renee Gladman

The Ravicka Trilogy in a Carytown alley.

These three small, strange books create a trilogy steeped in allegory and architecture. Each has its own voice, but all three read like _Meshes of the Afternoon_ viewings. I highly recommend sitting alone, near an urban landscape (i.e., an alleyway), and reading all three in a row.

Event Factory follows a linguist-traveler as she explores the confusing city of Ravicka. Ravicka is in a state of social upheaval. The unnamed narrator knows the language of Ravicka, deeply steeped in acts of gesticulation, but finds it difficult to translate her knowledge into the true experience of the place. This reads like science fiction, but addresses the difficulties and confusion of moving through this world.

In The Ravickians, a group of writers gather to discuss the crisis that grips their city. The writers share tenderness for one another as well as a profound love for their city. As Ravicka corrodes around them, their words falter, their concept of reality breaks, and even their dialogue becomes mashed into strings of words from unsure voices that begin to form a singular entity.

Ana Patova Crosses a Bridge is a poetic ode to architecture, to literature, and to experience. Told from the perspective of Ana Patova, a character introduced in the prior novels, this book reads like an epic poem. Gorgeous and haunting, this book ties this trilogy together. With a surreal voice, Ana Patova meditates on identity in the absence of place. As you reach the end, you'll want to start at the beginning. You'll also start seeing your daily life in a whole new light.

VCUarts is #1

Richard Hayes — Thu, 09 Jun 2016 14:31:37 +0000

Unfortunately this wasn't decided in a national tournament in which various schools competed in art contests that include a three point line. No this declaration of #1 came from U.S. News & World Report.

From VCU:

Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts has once again made the top of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate School rankings. The rankings, completed in 2016, are based on a fall 2015 survey of art school deans and other top art school academics.
In Fine Arts Programs, VCUarts is the number one ranked public program, tied for that honor with University of California – Los Angeles. In the overall program rank for both public and private programs, VCU’s School of the Arts has moved from number four to number two, once again tied with UCLA, and right behind Yale University’s number one position.
“Our faculty and staff dedicate an extraordinary amount of time and effort into developing their curricula and educating our student artists,” says Dean Joseph H. Seipel. “Our faculty research and their creative achievements, as well as that of our alumni, are all part of the VCUarts signature. We are pleased to be recognized by our peers for the quality of our program.”

Image: VCUarts Facebook