Chrysler Museum of Art in Partnership with Local Sheriffs’ Offices Present Beyond the Block

NORFOLK, Va., January 13, 2024 – The Chrysler Museum of Art, in collaboration with the Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake Sheriff’s Offices, is proud to present Beyond the Block, an exhibition showcasing the artwork of artists who are incarcerated. The exhibition is on view from January 28–March 3, 2025, at One Memorial Pl, Norfolk.

The exhibition’s title, Beyond the Block, contains layered meanings, referencing both the physical spaces where inmates reside and the societal and personal barriers they strive to overcome. Created using materials approved for high-security environments–including jail-safe pens, food, toilet paper, and deodorant–the more than 50 artworks presented underscores the creativity and resilience of these artists, who transform their available resources into compelling expressions of identity, emotion, and hope.

“Beyond the Block highlights the profound ability of art to transcend boundaries,” said Erik Neil, the Macon and Joan Brock Director of the Chrysler Museum of Art. “This exhibition gives voice to artists whose creativity flourishes despite challenging circumstances, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit and the unifying power of artistic expression.”

This initiative exemplifies the Chrysler Museum’s commitment to using art as a bridge for understanding, empathy, and connection. By providing a platform for voices often unheard, Beyond the Block invites visitors to engage in a dialogue with the wider community about the human experience behind incarceration.

Local sheriffs echoed the importance of this program:

“We are excited to participate in the Beyond the Block exhibit at the Chrysler Museum,” said Norfolk Sheriff Joe Baron. “There are a number of talented artists currently housed in the Norfolk City Jail, and programs like this give them a way to showcase their talents and focus on positive ways to spend their time while incarcerated. We are looking forward to seeing their artwork on display.”

“At the Virginia Beach Correctional Center, we believe in growth and rehabilitation opportunities for the people serving time,” said Virginia Beach Sheriff Rocky Holcomb. “Beyond the Block has proven to be an excellent path for inmates to work through the mistakes made in the past and look toward becoming productive members of our community.”

“Creativity can bloom in unexpected places,” said Chesapeake Sheriff Dave Rosado. “The Chesapeake Sheriff’s Office is proud to once again participate in this one-of-a-kind exhibition to allow offenders to therapeutically express their feelings while incarcerated and prove that even in the darkest times of a person’s life there is still hope and beauty.”

The exhibition will be on view in the Museum’s Margaret Shepard Ray Student and Family Gallery from January 28–March 3, 2025. A public reception with participating Sheriffs’ offices, participating deputies, and artists’ family members to celebrate the exhibition will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 3 p.m. Admission is free.

ABOUT THE CHRYSLER MUSEUM OF ART

The Chrysler Museum of Art brings art and people together through experiences that delight, inform, and inspire. Internationally recognized for its collection of more than 35,000 objects, including one the largest glass collections in America, the Museum also includes free admission, the state-of-the-art Perry Glass Studio, a full-service restaurant, shop, theater, works on paper space, and oversees the historic Myers House. The Museum boasts an ambitious schedule of exhibitions, events, and programs, and has been nationally recognized for its commitment to inclusion through its innovative gallery host program. For more information, visit chrysler.org. Follow on social media @ChryslerMuseum to receive the latest updates.

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