Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia — Attraction in Richmond

On a rainy day, I decided to go to the museum instead of staying inside. But not just any museum, but the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. I can say this was a great way to spend my afternoon. I was able to tour the museum at my own pace. I had arrived early, so it was if I had a private opening all to myself 😊 I was able to go floor to floor at my own pace, admiring all the amazing work of the artists. The intricate detailing of their work was breathtaking. The bold and vibrant colors of the artwork at times I could not differentiate if it was an actual painting or photography. I do want to thank the security guard, Mr. Hamlin for introducing me to the works of a specific artist, the work of this artist is phenomenal, I do highly recommend that you go and take a look for yourself and see if you can guess which artist he introduced me to. While also immersing yourself in the rich history of the museum. And don't forget to check out the interactive wall on the 1st floor. As well as all of the other amazing things inside of this building. All in all, it was a great rainy...

Really enjoyed touring the BHM. The facility is modern, spacious and well laid out. Having a volunteer guide walk us thru the museum, helping us to know what's available in each of the galleries was extremely helpful. Our guide was very good at prodding us w contextual questions. Like the paradox of TJefferson who wrote "that all men were created equal" yet built and sustained his farm at Monticello by maintaining 607 slaves. By comparison, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture currently has an exhibition: "Determined: 400 Years of African American Struggle for Equality". This is excellent! I only wished BHM would have half of the content and vision of that temporary exhibit. VA's history is steeped in the injustice and struggle for African-Americans' equality. I predict BHM would grow in prominence by better telling the black experience for emerging, waking generations if told from a VA...

We were so excited to visit the newly renovated museum, but was disappointed to find that the entire upper floor was closed the day we visited. We were still charged full admission and it wasn't until I asked about that we were offered a coupon for 1/2 off our next visit. (The only thing open was 1 large room)

The large timeline exhibit is well done and interesting, but the remaining room of exhibits seemed a bit geared towards children and were not as interesting. A lot of the previous artifacts seemed to be missing and replaced with info about bike race and car drivers.

I'm hoping that the full museum is better, but honestly don't think I'll visit again...