Virginia Beach Kempsville Community Celebrates History and Art

Local history buffs and art lovers invited to free public events on April 15 and April 18.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:22am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A highly stylized, abstract silkscreen print featuring a repeating pattern of a glass sculpture in the shape of a sailing ship, rendered in a bold, neon color palette with heavy black outlines, conceptually representing a celebratory public artwork.A bold, vibrant public art installation celebrates the maritime history and community spirit of Virginia Beach's Kempsville neighborhood.Virginia Beach Today

The Kempsville area of Virginia Beach is hosting two free public events to celebrate the community's history and art. On April 18, the city will dedicate a new public artwork called 'Harbor of Stories' created by Washington Glass Studio in collaboration with the community. Prior to the dedication on April 15, local author and professor Stephen Mansfield will give a talk exploring the history of the Kempsville area.

Why it matters

The events highlight the rich history and enduring character of the Kempsville community, bringing together local residents to participate in the creation of public art and learn about the area's past. The new public artwork will serve as a landmark and gathering point, representing the community's identity and unity.

The details

The 'Harbor of Stories' public artwork features glass panels created by local residents through hands-on workshops, reflecting the people, places and stories that shape the Kempsville community. The installation is in the shape of a schooner sailing ship, paying homage to the area's maritime history. Prior to the dedication, author Stephen Mansfield will give a talk exploring Kempsville's history and its place in the story of Virginia Beach.

  • The 'Harbor of Stories' public art dedication will take place on April 18 at 10 a.m.
  • The 'Defining Kempsville' talk by Stephen Mansfield will be held on April 15 at 4 p.m.

The players

Washington Glass Studio

The artist collective that collaborated with the City of Virginia Beach and the Kempsville community to create the 'Harbor of Stories' public artwork.

Stephen Mansfield

A professor at Virginia Wesleyan University and author of 'Princess Anne County and Virginia Beach: A Pictorial History', who will be giving a talk on the history of the Kempsville area.

Bobbie Gribble

The chair of the Historic Kempsville Citizens Advisory Committee, who described the 'Harbor of Stories' artwork as a 'vibrant celebration of the rich history and enduring character of Historic Kempsville'.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Harbor of Stories' is a vibrant celebration of the rich history and enduring character of Historic Kempsville. Through our neighbors' participation and collaboration with the City and the artist, the sculpture will serve as a landmark and gathering point, representing community, local identity and a sense of unity.”

— Bobbie Gribble, Chair, Historic Kempsville Citizens Advisory Committee

What’s next

Residents are encouraged to attend the free public events on April 15 and April 18 to learn about the history of the Kempsville area and witness the dedication of the new 'Harbor of Stories' public artwork.

The takeaway

These events showcase how a community can come together to celebrate its history and create public art that reflects the unique identity and character of the neighborhood. The collaboration between the city, local artists, and residents demonstrates the power of grassroots initiatives to preserve and promote a community's heritage.