Norfolk Botanical Garden's Diversity Art Gallery Returns for 3rd Year

The annual exhibition showcases underrepresented voices in the local arts community.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:07pm by Ben Kaplan

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Norfolk Botanical Garden's (NBG) ongoing commitment to diversity is highlighted by its 3rd annual Diversity Art Gallery, which is now open through March 22. The exhibition features works by local artists and is the result of a partnership between NBG and the Barry Arts Center, reflecting a growing national trend of botanical gardens, museums, and public spaces collaborating with community organizations to create more inclusive programming.

Why it matters

This shift towards community-curated exhibitions is driven by a desire for greater inclusivity, a demand for culturally relevant experiences, and a growing understanding of the economic benefits of attracting diverse audiences. By actively seeking input from local arts groups and providing exhibition opportunities for emerging artists, institutions can help foster a more equitable art ecosystem.

The details

The Diversity Gallery is part of NBG's broader efforts to acknowledge the garden's history and confront past injustices. The exhibition also highlights the evolution of botanical gardens into multifaceted community spaces that offer a wide range of experiences beyond just plant collections. This diversification is essential for attracting and retaining diverse audiences, which can also have significant economic benefits for the institution.

  • The Diversity Art Gallery is open now through March 22, 2026.

The players

Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG)

A botanical garden located in Norfolk, Virginia that is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity through its programming, including the annual Diversity Art Gallery.

Barry Arts Center

A local arts organization that is partnering with NBG to curate the Diversity Art Gallery, reflecting a growing trend of community collaboration in the curation of public exhibitions.

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What’s next

The presenting artist for next year's Diversity Art Gallery will be selected from the 2026 exhibition, providing them with expanded exhibition space and marketing support.

The takeaway

Norfolk Botanical Garden's Diversity Art Gallery is part of a broader trend of public institutions embracing community collaboration and inclusive programming to attract diverse audiences and foster a more equitable arts ecosystem.