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This new public art installation is a testament of resiliency. Here’s why

Edna Hawkins Hendrix shares information about one of the historic African American neighborhoods with artist Rich Hollant. (Southside Daily Photo/courtesy of the city of Virginia Beach)
Edna Hawkins Hendrix shares information about one of the historic African-American neighborhoods with artist Rich Hollant. (Southside Daily Photo/courtesy of the city of Virginia Beach)

VIRGINIA BEACH — The public is invited to attend the unveiling and dedication of the new public art installation, “Portraits from a Place of Grace” by Richard Hollant.

The unveiling will be on March 16 at 11 a.m. at the future home of the African-American Cultural Center of Virginia Beach on the corner of Newtown Road and Hampshire Way.

The artwork was commissioned by the city’s office of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the African American Cultural Center of Virginia Beach. The immersive design celebrates Virginia Beach’s historic African-American neighborhoods and their residents, city officials said.

Through interviews, videography, photography and graphics, the aspirations of members of the community have been captured and are presented in the piece and can be viewed online here beginning March 16, according to the city.

“Richard Hollant’s artistic rendering of our history through these visual modes of storytelling is worth a thousand words,” said Amelia Ross-Hammond, founder and chairwoman of the African-American Cultural Center of Virginia Beach. “This is a must-see for all Virginians. The work of art will be a place of reflection, and visitors will be inspired to stay a while among the faces of community members and contemplate our shared spirit.”

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