The Library of Virginia, in partnership with Old Dominion University, presents a new exhibition, “Envisioning Revolution: Virginians in Action,” opening Saturday, June 13, and on view through Dec. 31, 2026, to commemorate Virginia’s role in the 250th anniversary of American independence.
The exhibition features works from students in ODU's Department of Art who created works in the fall 2025 semester that envision Virginians featured in legislative petitions submitted to the state between 1776 and 1786. Those portraits and petitions, along with related research, are the foundation of the exhibition, providing insight into the diverse voices and revolutionary spirit of the time.
A variety of VA250-related activities will be available to visitors during the June 13 opening day celebration. Exhibition tours will begin at 1 p.m. and continue each half hour up until 3 p.m. ODU student artists and exhibition curators will be on hand to discuss the exhibition and its works. Visitors will also have the option of listening to a livestream of the TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures symposium, or taking part in a VA250 Revolutionary-era transcription event.
Limited free parking is available in the deck underneath the Library at 800 East Broad Street. For more information, contact education@lva.virginia.gov.