Past Exhibits
Exhibit History
Exhibit Archive

STEEL SEAS & SKY MACHINES: THE DIESELPUNK ART OF TONY SNIPES
What if history and scientific breakthroughs unfolded .. differently? What if Abe Lincoln survived to lead a more powerful Reconstruction, and scientific innovation lifted ships and “Aerocycles” into the sky? The powerful new exhibition invites you to reconsider history as a space for possibility, redefining what progress can look like, as new minds push the boundaries of electricity, magnetism and gravity. It’s history and science, reimagined. Don’t miss it!

A Seat Of Justice: The Courthouse That Shaped Portsmouth
This compelling exhibition explores the history of the Norfolk County Courthouse (now the Portsmouth Art & Cultural center) and its powerful role in shaping law, justice and memory in the region.

FREEMAN VINES: Hanging Tree Guitars
Hanging Tree Guitars introduces the work of Freeman Vines, a luthier and material artist born in Greene County, North Carolina. The Vines family is deeply rooted in the flatlands of the North Carolina plain where their family sharecropped on plantations that once enslaved them.

Blow Up II: Inflatable Contemporary Art
Explore the imaginative ways that air is used as a tool to create large-scale sculptures!

Founding Frenemies: Hamilton and the Virginians
From Hamilton’s decades of military and political service with George Washington to his feuds with Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, Virginians were among his most influential allies and his worst enemies. Enjoy this fascinating traveling exhibit at the Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, now through July 21, 2024. Admission for the exhibit is FREE!

Traveling Eye – Photographs by Glen McClure
Enjoy this fascinating exhibit exploring Glen McClure’s latest photographs from his journeys through England, France, Ireland, Italy, and Virginia.

WAVES OF STRENGTH: PORTRAITS OF AFRICAN AMERICAN SHIPYARD WORKERS FROM TIDEWATER, VIRGINIA
Come experience photographer Glen McClure’s powerful portraits of African American shipyard workers in Hampton Roads.

A PURPLE PATCHWORK SEWN IN SISTERHOOD
Experience the artistry of the 54-40 African American Quilters Guild of Virginia as they weave stores of resilience and heritage – each quilt inspired by The Color Purple.

Soul Finger Project
This exhibition features paintings and drawings influenced by contemporary Black Culture that traces its roots from Northern Africa to the Caribbean and beyond.