Welcome to ‘Backstage Pass’, CultureWorks artoberVA blog series where we highlight the amazing organizations participating in this year’s artoberVA celebration. ArtoberVA 2024 is a month-long celebration of arts and culture in the region, featuring a variety of events and activities for everyone to enjoy. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, a fantastic group that is hosting a unique pay-what-you-will event this October.

About the Organization

Can you tell us a bit about the BHMVA and its mission?

BHMVA: The mission of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia (BHMVA) is to share, interpret, preserve, exhibit, and commemorate the rich history and culture of African Americans throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia and beyond.

Through cultivated partnerships and innovative programming, BHMVA aims to restore a profound sense of cultural pride, well-being, and unity within the diaspora while fostering a more open and inclusive society. The museum’s dedication to the collection, documentation, and study of the history and culture of African Americans highlights stories that are often untold and forgotten, and actively contributes to the ongoing narrative through scholarship and curation.

How long has BHMVA been involved in the arts and culture scene in the region?

BHMVA: Since our opening in 1991.

What inspired you to participate in this year’s artoberVA celebration?

BHMVA: We’ve participated in artoberVA previous years and would like to continue the wonderful partnership with CultureWorks. Our goal is to increase accessibility on our featured day for participants who would like to visit the museum but normally would not have the means to.

Spotlight on the Event

What is the name of your event, and what can attendees expect?

BHMVA: Features Exhibition: Prescription for Change: Black Voices Shaping Healthcare in Virginia — runs now until March 15th, 2025.

BAAAR Pop-Up Exhibition: Sweet to the Soul & Healing to the Bones, a thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationship between the medical industry and the black community—runs now until November 30th, 2024.

Can you share some details about the date, time, and location of the event?

BHMVA: Both are features at BHMVA.

Impact and Community Engagement

How do you hope your event will impact the community?

BHMVA: Our exhibitions will demonstrate how healthcare has been informed by the Black community in the state of Virginia through history and art.

Can you share any stories or experiences from previous events that highlight the importance of arts and culture in our community?

BHMVA: We’ve had several exhibitions that explore intersections between past and current events and the Black community.

Getting Involved

How can the community get involved or support BHMVA during artoberVA?

BHMVA: BHMVA welcomes all to experience our featured exhibitions along with our permanent collection galleries located on the 1st level.

Where can people find more information about your event and BHMVA?

BHMVA: Please visit our website at https://blackhistorymuseum.org/

Closing Thoughts

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers about your event or your organization?

BHMVA: Please sign up for our e-Newsletter located on the homepage of our website to learn about ongoing exhibitions, programming, and other happenings such as signing up to be a volunteer, docent, intern, etc.

We are thrilled to have the Black History Museum as a part of artoberVA 2024 and encourage everyone to attend their pay-what-you-will event. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the richness of our local arts and culture scene. Stay tuned for more interviews with other participating organizations, and don’t forget to check out the full calendar of events on our website.

Visit our artoberVA Event Calendar to explore all the exciting happenings this October. Don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate arts and culture with Bridge 9 Theater and many others!