April 22, 2018 by CheatsMovement No CommentsPhotography, RVA

PHOTOS: VCU’S ICA BLOCK PARTY, THE PERFECT MIX OF FRIENDS, FAMILY AND RICHMOND

IT’S HERE! Yesterday, The Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University opened its doors to the public. In what I can only hope as foresight for this new jewel of Richmond, the weather was perfect and the community came out in full support. “Community” was the keyword that swept the block party which took place right outside of the 41,000 square foot building, designed by Steven Holl.

One of the goals of the ICA is the break the “ivory tower” of the University and be an integrated part of Richmond, and they are off to an outstanding start. The ICA opening and block party featured several local elements that made the day feel like authentic Richmond and international at the same time. The food carts, the photo booth, Studio Two Three’s mobile station, the community art for youth, and live music from Richmond staples gave the event a vibe that even the Cheats Movement would be proud of (#WESEEIT).

The opening exhibition, “Declaration,” that features more than 30 artists and roughly 70 works of art. The debut show hits just about every possible sensitive topic in our divisive political era: racism, climate change, sexism, and the prison system, to name a few. The former Director of the ICA, Lisa Frieman, put the vision for the opening show in place right of after last year’s Presidential election. Her now mythical “Stop everything” changed the current course of the inaugural show into what is displayed today. “We went kind of go big or go home,” chief curator Stephanie Smith, told artnet News in promotion leading up to yesterday’s opening.

The ICA certainly went big with the opening and it was a huge success. I hope you will visit the ICA and even become a member – did I mention that memberships are free. Congratulations to all of the staff, supporters, and contributors for an amazing opening. Special recognition to Anita Yearwood for her amazing event planning (You did that damn thang). #WESEEIT to Traci, Carol Anne, Michael, Johanna, and Stephanie, and everyone on staff that put the vision in motion (too many to name – for real). And of course, to me, this will forever be the House that Lisa built. For your passion, dedication and leadership, Lisa Frieman #WESEEIT.