On an unusually hot Friday evening in July, hundreds of art and public media fans beat the heat at the #WCVEandMe gallery opening at Crossroads Art Center. This unique photography exhibition displays the most popular and inspiring features from WCVE’s Instagram account. The account focuses on inspiring, entertaining or poignant stories of our community.
The evening began with opening remarks from international speaker, author, and founder of TMI Consulting, Dr. Tiffany Jana, whose portrait is featured in the exhibit.
“WCVE captured one of my most favorite images for this show. It marked the bringing of a new level of self-expression, identity, happiness, and freedom in my life,” Jana said. ( Watch Jana’s opening remarks HERE)
Jana wasn’t the only individual featured in the #WCVEandMe gallery in attendance. Former American Idol contestant Shay Winn, Playwright and actress Valerie Davis, founder of CJ Thumbs Up, Roger Reynolds, Precious Taylor from The Joy Concierge, and artist Asiya Al-Sharabi were among the featured community members who celebrated the opening of the new exhibit.
“WCVE is a powerful source for the community. WCVE competes against themselves to come up with new ideas, reach out to a wider spectrum, cover different topics, tell the story behind the story and unite our community through strength in diversity. What I love about WCVE is their sustainable effort to reach out to people with different backgrounds,” said Al-Sharabi.
#WCVEandME helps shine a light on the creativity, love, perseverance, and diversity found in central Virginia by featuring everything from artists to small business owners, chefs, athletes, educators and more.
This exhibit seeks to foster deep community connections, expressing the similarities and bonds between us all and highlighting positivity in our community. Those who attend #WCVEandMe are invited to share their stories as well. Visitors can submit their stories for consideration by filling out a postcard provided at the exhibit or by direct messaging WCVE on Instagram.
Jeromyah Jones reflected on his experience at the gallery opening, “There are so many great stories here. I think by having such a variety of stories -- so many people dealing with so many different things in life -- you can see yourself through these images.”
Gallery guest Laurianda Jenkins said, “Not only did I learn about the great things people in my own community are doing, but it was truly inspiring and made me want to step up my life game. I especially loved the fact that I was able to meet each person in the photos face to face. The energy in the room was nothing but love, joy, and celebration.”
Attendees appreciated the artistry of the displayed photography as much as the engaging storytelling of the exhibit.
“WCVE chose interesting poses, nailed the focus on the subject and created a perfect background blur that makes the characters stand out even more,” said visitor Ausra Huntington.
#WCVEandMe runs at Crossroads Art Center until Sunday, September 8. To enjoy even more stories from our community, follow WCVE on Instagram @myVPM.