Anderson Gallery, Richmond

The Anderson Gallery, situated within the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in Richmond, operates as a key element of the VCU School of the Arts, which is highly acclaimed nationally. Established in 1931, it was initially Richmond's sole art exhibition venue until the opening of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in 1936. Over the decades, the Anderson Gallery evolved into a crucial hub for contemporary art in the Southeast, amassing an impressive collection of over 31,000 artworks.

The gallery has gained distinction for its commitment to showcasing a mix of regional, national, and international artists, thus enriching the cultural landscape with diverse and provocative exhibitions. It not only focuses on professional artists but also emphasizes the artistic development of students, positioning them as accomplished artists in their own right. This approach allows students to refine their craft, explore new artistic expressions, and engage directly with the public.

In 2015, a pivotal transition occurred when the Anderson Gallery closed, and its extensive collection was relocated to the archives of VCU’s James Branch Cabell Library for research and educational purposes. However, the story didn't end there; the gallery re-emerged in 2016, reinvented as a vibrant space dedicated exclusively to student exhibitions and projects.

Today, the Anderson continues to serve as an essential educational and cultural resource within VCUarts, maintaining its legacy of engaging and innovative art presentations. For those interested in current and upcoming exhibitions, Anderson's webpage offers a wealth of information on what's happening at the gallery.