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.
@ Chrysler Museum of Art, One Memorial Place, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 06.09.16 - 10.30.16
We explore the integral role of women in our nation’s quest for social justice in an exhibition drawn from the Chrysler’s rich collection of Civil Rights-era photography.
Learn More@ Chrysler Museum of Art, One Memorial Place, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 09.15.16 - 02.19.17
In a story of a local kid who grew up and hit the big time, the Chrysler presents a new media work by Los Angeles-based artist Brian Bress.
Learn More@ Chrysler Museum of Art, One Memorial Place, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 09.22.16 - 01.15.17
“This exhibition highlights poaching and the illegal ivory trade, and how two of Africa’s most grand animals, the elephant and the rhinoceros, teeter on the brink of extinction.”
Learn More@ Work Release, 759 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 09.26.16 | 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Every so often, Sway brings a national recording artist to Norfolk that we love here in the shop for an afterwork gathering of friends, colleagues and creators. This time around, it’s singer/songwriter Alex Dezen of the Brooklyn-based Damnwells, and Tony Lucca, an exceptional singer/songwriter in his own right.
Learn More@ Chrysler Museum Glass Studio, 745 Duke St, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 09.29.16 | 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Susan Taylor Glasgow turns traditional ideals of sewing and cooking as “woman’s work” into art that challenges predictable views.
Learn More@ Work Release, 759 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 09.29.16 | 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
This month’s installment: A steampunk pirate named Alexander the Grand sits atop our crow’s nest for this month’s Drink n Draw. Work | Release holds a monthly Drink N’ Draw w/ fun models, wild themes, crazy costumes and weird props and positions.
Learn More@ Push Comedy Theater, 763 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 09.30.16 | 10:00 pm - 11:30 pm
Some of the Push Comedy’s Theater’s funniest students share the stage with their teachers, The Pushers. Ordinarily we frown upon fraternization between teachers and students (Brad we’re looking at you)… but for one night only all bets are off!!!
Learn More@ Push Comedy Theater, 763 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.01.16 | 10:00 pm - 11:30 pm
SKETCHMAGEDDON takes three groups and forces them to compete in an all-out comedy deathmatch! Each team will be given 15 minutes to dazzle you with their comedy prowess. It’s Saturday Night Live meets Thunderdome!!!!
Learn More@ Chrysler Museum of Art, One Memorial Place, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.04.16 | 8:45 am - 9:45 am
Join our resident Yogi, Tenesha Bazemore, for yoga classes in a beautiful setting. Her teaching is appropriate for all skill levels. Bring your own mat and wear comfortable clothing.
Learn More@ Chrysler Museum of Art, One Memorial Place, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.06.16 | 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Come select your new favorite fall accessory: a rich Baltic amber design set in stylish sterling silver at this Museum Shop/Huber Court trunk sale.
Learn More@ Chrysler Museum of Art, One Memorial Place, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.06.16 | 10:30 am - 11:00 am
Introduce your preschooler to art. Join us for stories, songs and surprises in a program we call Tickle My Ears. Tickle My Ears is held on the first Thursday of every month. This session is open to all families with preschool children.
Learn More@ Chrysler Museum of Art, One Memorial Place, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.06.16 | 11:00 am - 11:30 am
Introduce your preschooler to art. Join us for stories, songs and surprises in a program we call Tickle My Ears. This session is for daycare, preschool, or church groups. Groups of eight children or more should consider attending this session.
Learn More@ The Plot, NE Corner of Granby Street & Olney Rd, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.07.16 | 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Downtown Norfolk Council’s First Fridays events features music, food and merchandise vendors and a beer and wine garden all in an authentic Downtown setting. First Fridays alternate Downtown locations throughout the season.
Learn More@ Push Comedy Theater, 763 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.08.16 | 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm
This show will have all the trappings of a thrilling mystery, a dastardly villain, shifty suspects and an intrepid detective, and it will all be made up on the spot!
Learn More@ Push Comedy Theater, 763 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.08.16 | 10:00 pm - 11:30 pm
Nine contestants, four months, one Golden Mic! Core Theatre Ensemble and Push Comedy Theater present the ultimate Lip Sync Competition in Hampton Roads!
Learn More@ Work Release, 759 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.15.16 | 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm
We will have vendors setting up Buying/Selling/Trading Music/Movies/Video Games/Comics/Toys ect. Message Endangered Formats for reserving a table or bring some stuff just to trade with vendors. Vendor list and possibly bands to be announced soon
Learn More@ Push Comedy Theater, 763 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 | 10.21.16 | 11:00 pm
In the grand tradition of The Twilight Zone and Tales from the Crypt comes The 666 Project. The Push Comedy Theater has gathered six writers, six directors and six actors to bring you six rib-tickling, tales of terror.
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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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