With Love: 1,000 Flowers¬

March 8, 2025-September 27, 2025

This exhibition supports the With Love campaign, which partners with NAMI Coastal Virginia to use art as a way to foster open conversations about mental health and support those in need.

At the center of the gallery, transparent, heart-shaped vessels are filled with colorful origami flowers crafted by community members. There are 4,733 flowers in total. Each one carries a personal message of hope for those facing mental health challenges. These messages create a garden of shared stories and inspiration, reminding us that no one should face their mental health journey alone.

Surrounding these hearts, the walls showcase artwork by local artists who support NAMI’s mission. They have donated their time and talent to improve mental healthcare in Virginia. Their diverse perspectives enhance the community-sourced installation, bridging professional art and grassroots expression.

Through art, our community comes together to talk openly about mental health. Every flower and artwork serves as a testament to the healing power of art and the importance of fostering open conversations about mental wellness.

FEATURED ARTISTS:

Marianne Bechtle
Mark Butts
Rebecca Cassity
Erika Hitchcock
Eafrica Johnson
Ed Obermeyer
Tamara Vogrin Tara

ABOUT THE VIRGINIA MOCA SATELLITE GALLERY:

Open Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM and Saturday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. There is no charge for admission.

Virginia MOCA partnered with The Runnymede Corporation to open a permanent satellite gallery in the lobby of their Virginia Beach headquarters at 600 22nd Street, Pavilion II, a short walk from the museum. Virginia MOCA Satellite Gallery at Towne Pavilion II has over 80 combined feet of wall space spanning the lobby and hallways of the first floor.

WHERE TO VIEW THE 1,000 FLOWERS INSTALLATION
The installation of hearts filled with flowers will travel to various locations to continue our campaign of awareness through 2025 and 2026.

Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art Satellite Gallery
Pavilion II 600 22nd Street in Virginia Beach
Opening March 8–September 27, 2025

Selden Market
208 E Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510
October 1–31, 2025

Central Library
298 Cedar Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23322
November 1–December 31, 2025

Tidewater Community College/City of Virginia Beach Joint-Use Library
1700 College Crescent, Virginia Beach, VA 23453
January 2–May 31, 2026

The Governor’s School for the Arts Gallery
300 Monticello Ave, Norfolk, VA 23510
June 1, 2026

The Virginia Aquarium
717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
July 1, 2026