Date: September 6, 2024
From time to time, the Seminary sponsors a student proposed activity. It was David Smith who had the idea: how about we have a Neighborhood Art Festival – where different voices and a variety of mediums are present on the campus? I am grateful for his willingness to embark on this pioneering project.
The Neighborhood Art Festival is a one-day celebration of art, music, community, and worship. This event will take place on our campus. The concept is focused on bringing people together from all different communities and backgrounds, and inviting them to be a part of the same neighborhood for an afternoon of amazing, family fun!
The festival will host various different areas including:
· The Neighborhood Main Stage: Where individuals will be treated to some of the best poets, singers, rappers, DJ’s and producers from the Baltimore / DC area. You may even spot a fellow seminarian or two on the stage!
· The Neighborhood Market / Cookout: A place where various handmade items will be sold including jewelry, clothing, soaps, and delicious food!
.The Neighborhood Playground: A fun area for the kids, equipped with a bounce house, facepainting, supplies to create their own art, and an inflatable obstacle course!
· The Neighborhood Art Gallery / Museum – A unique, interactive space that will host various visual artists from around the US. There will be an art auction, special performances, and a glow in the dark dance party!
· The Neighborhood Lounge – 1823 will be converted into a cozy lounge, equipped with a stage, and performers from 7:30 p.m. -9:30 p.m. This stage will be open to everyone! All are encouraged to come and perform!
The festival will begin at 12pm in the chapel with our noon day prayer service and conclude at the second stage at 9:30 p.m. We are looking forward to seeing everyone this Saturday! Do come and let it plant the seed of what you might like to try and organize.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary