WELCOME¬
On April 18, Virginia MOCA’s brand-new home opens on the campus of Virginia Wesleyan University. Art Moves Us is our celebration of the boundless creativity and community expansion to come in this next chapter, and we’re thrilled to bring you alongside us on this journey.
Join us for an evening that brings together art, libations, music, and community to mark a new chapter for the Museum.
Nina Chanel Abney, Miss Opportunity, 2024. Acrylic on canvas. Courtesy of the artist © Nina Chanel Abney
The Pursuit of Happiness brings together monumental paintings, collages, sculpture, and an immersive installation that confront how we imagine joy, struggle, and survival in a time of global uncertainty.
Upcoming Exhibitions¬
Nina Chanel Abney: The Pursuit of Happiness
April 18, 2026-August 16, 2026
Virginia MOCA opens its new home with a landmark solo exhibition by Nina Chanel Abney, one of the most incisive voices in contemporary art. The Pursuit of Happiness brings together monumental paintings, collages, sculpture, and an immersive installation that confront how we imagine joy, struggle, and survival in a time of global uncertainty.
Seamless: Art and Design
April 18, 2026-August 16, 2026
Seamless: Art and Design brings together artists who are also designers, many of whom are widely recognized for shaping contemporary visual culture.
PROGRAMS + SPECIAL EVENTS¬
Virginia MOCA Grand Opening and Inaugural Exhibition Celebration
Friday, April 17, 2026 | 6:00 pm-10:00 pm
Coffee + Conversation: TeezySoDope
Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 10:30 am-12:00 pm
Community Day
Saturday, May 02, 2026 | 10:00 am-4:00 pm
STUDIO ART CLASSES¬
Sneaker Lab
Saturday, April 25, 2026 | 12:00 pm-4:00 pm
Teens ages 13–17 will work with a professional streetwear designer to sketch, design, and prototype their own custom sneakers!
Painting Survey
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 | 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
In this multi-session class, you’ll experiment with acrylic, gouache, and oil while learning essentials like color mixing, brushwork, and working with different surfaces.
Digital Photography
Thursday, May 07, 2026 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Ready to move beyond auto mode and finally feel confident behind the camera? This 6-week digital photography course is designed to help you take control of your camera and start creating images you’re truly proud of.
Sewing Machine 101
Saturday, May 09, 2026 | 10:00 am-2:30 pm
Build confidence and demystify your sewing machine in this hands-on beginner workshop designed to help students understand their tools from the inside out.
Saturday in the Studio: Ages 6–8
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Explore printmaking, painting, drawing, and mixed media across several sessions! Learn foundational techniques in each medium while creating your own projects and drawing inspiration from contemporary artists and Museum artworks.
Master Class with Jordan Bruner: Digital Animation
Sunday, May 31, 2026 | 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Explore motion through short-form digital animation in this hands-on master class led by Seamless: Art and Design exhibiting artist Jordan Bruner.
Explore More¬
STUDIO ART CLASSES SPRING + SUMMER 2026
COME MAKE ART WITH US
Virginia MOCA offers art classes for all ages and skill levels! From one-day workshops to multi-session classes, there is a creative offering for everyone. We can’t wait to see you in our new studios.
Join/Give
Become a Member
Membership has its perks. Join our tight-knit community that supports living artists and their work.
NEW HOME
VIRGINIA MOCA AT VWU
Discover the future of Virginia MOCA as we prepare to begin a new chapter on the campus of Virginia Wesleyan University!