September – October 2026 Exhibits
Join us on September 25, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for an exciting opening reception of our new exhibits at Art Works. It’s our 23rd anniversary and we will be celebrating our long standing presence in the Richmond art scene. Meet the talented artists, and enjoy live music, refreshments, and libations sponsored by RVA Thriving Artists. Featured artists are Sky Dai, Alcova Key, Carol Gruppe, Tatiana Grace, and the All Media Show by local artists.
This event is free and open to the public. Convenient and free parking is available. The exhibits will continue through October 17, 2026.
Espiral Azul / Blue Spiral by Sky Dai
Sky Dai’s surreal figurative oil paintings channel visions from psychic intuition, plant medicine ceremonies, dreams, and memory. Influenced by how trauma fragments perception, Dai distorts form and perspective to create portals into imaginative worlds. Her recent work, inspired by Hurricane Helene’s destruction, explores water spirits, climate change, and the idea of home—both domestic and planetary. The exhibition includes a large oil painting, smaller works, and a ceramic installation.
The exhibition will be in the Jane Sandelin Gallery at Art Works and will continue through November 21, 2026.
Through the Neon Veil by Alcova Key
Alcova Key is a multimedia artist from Springfield, Virginia, whose work merges street art with neon in a striking fusion of graffiti, cyberpunk aesthetics, and Vegas-inspired grit. The artwork radiates emotional intensity, featuring fragmented figures, glowing hearts, and statues illuminated by vibrant neon light. Each work captures a dynamic balance between chaos and illumination, transforming raw energy into luminous form.
The exhibit will be in the Port II Gallery at Art Works through October 17, 2026.
Coastal Virginia by Carol Gruppe
A third-generation artist, Carol Gruppé grew up immersed in a family of painters, sculptors, and musicians. Trained at Mary Washington University and under her uncle, renowned artist Charles C. Gruppé, she has since developed a vibrant style influenced by her years sailing the North Sea and Chesapeake Bay. Her bold use of color captures the energy and light of life on the water. After a 25-year career in graphic arts, including 13 years with NATO in Brussels, Carol has returned to her true passions—painting, teaching, and sailing—creating expressive works in acrylic, oil, and mixed media.
The exhibit will be in the Centre Gallery at Art Works through October 17, 2026.
Between the Petals and Thorns by Tatiana Grace
Tatiana Grace’s work explores the balance of feminine energy—its strength and sensitivity, resilience and fragility. In this series, she draws inspiration from flowers, water, and fire to express the emotional depth of the feminine spirit. Petals and thorns symbolize love and struggle, while the shifting elements reflect moods that move from calm intuition to bold passion. Together, these works celebrate the harmony found in embracing both softness and strength.
The exhibit will be in the Corner Gallery at Art Works through October 17, 2026.
September 2026 All Media Show
This exhibit is a focal point of all Art Works’ openings. It is a juried show with cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. The show is open to all artists and all mediums. Call for entries is August 15 – September 13, 2026, and may be submitted through the online form.
The exhibit will be in the Skylight Gallery at Art Works through October 15, 2026. Check our website for details on submitting artwork: Call for Entries
The Community Bridge Project
RVA Thriving Artists is excited to welcome a new artist to the Community Bridge Project. Emerging artists from Central Virginia—including those from underserved and marginalized communities, are encouraged to submit their proposals through the online application form. Selected artists will receive free exhibit space in the upstairs Bridge Project gallery at Art Works, along with mentorship and educational support. The program provides guidance on developing a theme, creating a cohesive body of work, preparing for exhibition, and promoting the show.
