On Saturday, November 16, 1708 Gallery and several neighboring businesses, including Verdalina, Uptown Cheapskate, Birdies, and Common House, experienced an unsettling incident when their storefront windows were damaged by a pellet gun. Despite the damage, 1708 Gallery remained open, covering their windows with plywood to ensure operations could continue. To transform this temporary solution into a positive community effort, the gallery partnered with talented students from Appomattox Regional Governor’s School (ARGS) to paint the plywood, creating an artistic display that brightened the block. ARGS students also collaborated with neighboring business Uptown Cheapskate to extend the project’s impact.
In response to the incident, the 1708 Gallery team quickly mobilized to raise funds in a way that aligns with their mission and spirit. Their initiatives include offering a direct donation option as well as hosting a special Flat File Friday sale. This event features original artworks from the Monster Drawing Rally series spanning 2014-2024, providing accessible art to the community while rallying together to move forward from the challenges.
The gallery is also excited about upcoming events and exhibitions that continue to highlight their role as a cultural hub in Richmond’s Arts District. Early next year, on February 22, 2025, 1708 will host their annual auction, Cabin Fever. Artworks for the auction will begin arriving in January, kicking off a dynamic period of preparation and collaboration as the team curates and installs the pieces. Looking further ahead, the gallery will welcome a spring exhibition featuring rising artist Kat Thompson, promising an inspiring addition to their program lineup.
As a small nonprofit, 1708 Gallery thrives on community support, both emotional and financial. The gallery team has been deeply moved by the outpouring of encouragement from friends, neighbors, and visitors who checked in after the incident and visited the gallery to show their solidarity. However, financial support is crucial to fully restore the storefront windows, which serve as a vital connection between the gallery and its surrounding neighborhood. The plywood covering, while creatively repurposed, has undoubtedly impacted audience engagement and the overall ambiance of the Arts District.
By contributing to 1708 Gallery’s fundraising efforts, donors will not only help restore the block’s inviting, light-filled aesthetic but also strengthen the Arts District as a whole. Community members are encouraged to join in this effort and support 1708’s mission to bring creativity and connection to Broad Street and beyond.
DONATE HERE: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/1708-gallery-inc/new-windows-for-1708
Photography by Nick Davis