07.04.12
The founders and editors of Hampton Roads' digital alternative press AltDaily submitted The NEAD (Norfolk Emerging Arts District) Project to Norfolk City Hall, and lit the first spark of many efforts to bring to fruition a vision of Norfolk's first official Arts District.
Visit Site04.12.13
The city of Norfolk commissioned Dallas-based urban planning firm Better Block to deliver a stretch of Granby Street just north of Brambleton Avenue from a dilapidated eyesore into a thriving arts destination. Over the course of four days, hundreds of volunteers came together to give visitors a vision of what the block could be, complete with galleries, murals, live performances, pop-up retail, food vendors and more. The event was a huge success, and served as the spark for the official commissioning of the Norfolk Arts District.
Visit Site04.13.13
Alchemy NFK were one of the first anchors of the newly christened NEON to make a measurable contribution in shaping the District’s direction. They continue to be an inspiring and igniting force in furthering the Norfolk art community — from booking art shows and live performances, to organizing annual fundraisers and civic projects. If there’s something going on in the NEON, chances are they have a hand (or two) in it.
Visit Site01.10.14
Nationally renowned family theater troupe The Hurrah Players purchased the former Sutton Manufacturing building in 2014 and began work on reimagining the 12,000+ square foot space into a premier rehearsal studio for their ever growing educational program. Since opening, the group has developed a fully-outfitted creation workshop for performance scenery and props, and as the premier performing arts education center in the District, Hurrah have become active leaders in the cultural transformation of the community.
Visit Site03.18.14
After purchasing the long vacant Texaco building, C. Arthur “Brother” Rutter III and his wife Meredith aimed to turn Work | Release into not only the premier art and entertainment destination in the District - but in the region as well. Now a staple for downtown nightlife, patrons of all ages and interests can admire one of the revolving exhibits while sipping on a nice chianti or quirky cocktail, enjoy appetizing lunch fare for business or pleasure, or get down to notable and national DJ’s and bands every weekend. Whatever your niche, there’s a night for you.
Visit Site04.01.14
Alchemy NFK and The Pushers Comedy Group came together for “Kickstart Norfolk,” an online-only fundraising effort that featured live music, comedy, demonstrations and art. With the help of local advertising agency Sway Creative Labs (and a few promised pies to the face), the pair of NEON District businesses collectively raised over $20,000 with one of the country’s first “web-a-thons.”
Visit Site04.14.14
Based on the so-called “dazzle patterns” painted on battleships during World War I to make them more difficult to target, Kuszyk’s mural on the side of Bob’s Gun Shop immediately becomes a brilliantly colorful and electric beacon in the District.
Read More05.07.14
Florentijn Hofman’s “Rubber Duck” drifted down the Hague in the spring of ‘14 to commemorate the grand re-opening of the Chrysler Museum of Art. The 10x11x13 meter inflatable work of art had brought smiles and selfies to Sydney, Hong Kong, Osaka, Sao Paulo and other host cities before landing in Norfolk. Nearly 150,000 people found their way to duck and district — sadly, Ernie didn’t show.
Read More05.10.14
After renovations and an expansion totaling nearly $24 million, the Chrysler Museum of Art reopened its doors in 2014, complete with renovations, an extended gallery, and the addition of the Chrysler Museum Glass Studio. A collection spanning over 5,000 years of history, culture, and expression, the museum continues to inspire, excite and engage its visitors with a collection to rival even the world’s greatest collectors. The adjacent Glass Studio has the community 'fired up' over its interactive events and daily workshops, showing visitors the artistic process isn’t just about the final product - it’s about the experience.
Visit Site06.14.14
With ground breaking on Downtown Norfolk’s new Hilton Hotel and Convention Center, its temporary park “The Plot” needed a new home. With the help of dozens of volunteers, the entire park (shipping containers included) was transplanted to the corner of Granby and Olney. It’s since become a central commonplace for the District’s creatives, encouraging buskers, impromptu performances and meetups.
Visit Site10.29.14
Founded by local comedy troupe The Pushers, the Push Comedy Theater plans to bring the best local and national comedy acts to the District. The 90 seat venue regularly hosts live sketch, improv and stand-up comedy while also offering instructional comedy and acting classes.
Visit Site04.05.15
A haven for coffee and creativity, Zeke’s Beans and Bowls with their eclectic brand of Hawaiian style poke bowls and local bean blends were a welcomed addition to the NEON District menu. A cozy spot fitted with vintage furniture, a dynamic collection of local artwork, and even a typewriter to leave a note behind for the next lucky patron - the spot is perfectly set to relax and sip or dine on some seriously fresh fare. The shop continues their tradition of bringing in exceptional artists to feature, and planning amazing events that bring together vendors, visitors and vagrants.
Visit Site10.15.15
After months of preparation, The NEON Festival was a culmination of the hard work of numerous artists and volunteers. With dozens of public art pieces being simultaneously unveiled during the two-day event, the festival served as an unofficial “opening” of the District. Visitors were treated to a series of walking mural tours, live music and comedy performances, delectable local vendors, and plenty more from the creative community as it showcased its vision for the neighborhood.
Visit Site01.07.16
A staple of the Norfolk arts community for over 30 years, the d’Art Center relocated to the NEON in the beginning of 2016. This living and breathing art studio not only showcases work from local artists, but acts as an active studio space giving visitors a look into the heart of the work and artists they may already know as well as a marketplace for passersby to purchase the pieces created there.
Visit SiteOngoing
With over 25 unique pieces currently lining the streets, alleyways, and nearly every hidden corner of the NEON - the living gallery is comprised of large, elaborate pieces and glowing details adorning cracks in the sidewalks. Inviting both local and national artists to enrich its empty wallspace, the area is a shining example for creative potential in a downtown area when fueled by its artistic community.
Visit SiteNorfolk's Emerging Art + Design District
The NEON District hopes to harness the new energy of Norfolk by providing local and touring artists and musicians a place to burn bright. Norfolk’s first official arts district has plenty of events to enjoy and opportunities to get involved. Check out the events calendar and volunteer board below to learn more.
@ Glass Wheel Studio, 128 W Olney Rd, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 09.17.17 - 11.05.17
Navid creates an immersive pop-up book inspired 2D city, while Emily casts 3D glass objects meant to live within his multi-layered landscape.His illustrations lend a home for Bartelt’s glasswork to be nestled between buildings and crossing bridges.
Learn More@ Glass Wheel Studio, 128 W Olney Rd, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 09.17.17 - 11.05.17
See Worthy is a collaboration between two artists with two separate practices. For this exhibition, Jennifer Caldwell and Jason Chakravarty come together to create work inspired by their travels, nautical life, space, memory, and time.
Learn More@ Push Comedy Theater, 763 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.01.17 | 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Get ready for true stories of the macabre as only can be told by Brad McMurran. Brad will be recreating the scariest (and funniest moments) of his life in the special Halloween show.
Learn More@ Bearded Bird Brewing Co, 727 Granby St., Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.13.17 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Come and show your support for the d’Art center by creating art and drinking beer at the Bearded Bird Brewery! There is no experience necessary, and all of the supplies needed are included with the purchase of your ticket!
Learn More@ Push Comedy Theater, 763 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.14.17 | 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm
There’s a killer on the loose… can you solve this classic who dunnit before they strike again!?! This show will have all the trappings of a thrilling mystery… a dastardly villain, shifty suspects and an intrepid detective.
Learn More@ The NEON District | 10.19.17 - 10.20.17
The third annual NEON Festival welcomes everyone to experience the NEON District through art exhibitions, local and national performances and mural tours. It kicks off with Third Thursday at Chrysler and continues Friday at the Plot Beer Garden.
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Granby Social Lives
04.30.16
The Granby Social Club opened its doors in April of 2016 with a focus on crafting a distinct environment for folks who want a little something different - and with more than a few options to choose from. 90-second street food, skeeball, a 52 foot lounge, billiards, DJ’s, and karaoke are just a bit of what’s in store for you behind the doors of the NEON’s newest addition.
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