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Richmond Grid Celebrating Richmond's makers, storytellers, and community builders. Our goal is to share stories about people inspired by a purpose beyond themselves.

Grid is a solutions-oriented news platform that celebrates makers, storytellers, and community builders. We are interested in hard work, humility, authenticity, and stewardship. And most of all, people who roll up their sleeves and push Richmond forward. As a certified B Corporation, we produce digital content and a quarterly print publication that features Richmond at its best — from startup owne

rs to creators to civic leaders. We deliver our magazine by bike whenever possible, print on FSC-certified paper, use soy-based ink, and donate a portion of our advertising space to local nonprofits. We hope you enjoy reading about the talented people, small businesses, and community organizations that we feature in Grid as much as we’ve enjoyed getting to know their stories. Each follows a philosophy and set of practices that are building a more just and caring Richmond. And for that we’re grateful.


*Richmond Grid also offers* Online news at www.richmondgrid.com; Email newsletter via its sister publication, Here Weekly, offering weekly tips and ways to explore RVA. Sign up for free at www.hereweekly.co; Locally Made Goods: Grid Supply Co., www.gridsupplyco.com, featuring products made in Richmond by Richmonders, such as cocktail glasses laser etched with murals by local artists, growlers and water bottles featuring the City of Richmond flag, visual works by Richmond illustrators, "Dear Richmond" journals; and Grid Collective: A content house and brand consultancy for socially conscious local businesses with a meaningful story to tell.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has launched this 9” x 11” giclée print by Richmond artist Cassandra Loomi...
24/07/2025

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has launched this 9” x 11” giclée print by Richmond artist Cassandra Loomis Kim (), featuring a beautiful and unique portrait of a peregrine falcon family to commemorate this year’s DWR Falcon Cam. Each print is hand-signed and numbered by the artist as part of a limited edition of 100. Printed on archival paper and sold unframed, it’s a striking tribute to Virginia’s most iconic raptors.

Cassandra was inspired to capture the 2025 viewing season’s three chicks and their proud parents in a piece that’s part fine art, part whimsy, and 100% unforgettable. The falcon artwork was created exclusively to honor the Richmond peregrine falcons and the devoted fans who follow them each season.

In recent years, Cassandra has focused on Virginia native animals and imperiled species as she’s grown more aware of the threats they face. “From her award-winning spotted skunk to endangered fish painted with her daughters, Cassandra’s creativity helps people see Virginia’s wildlife in a whole new light,” says .

Limited-edition giclée prints, as well as vinyl stickers featuring Kim’s work, are available now at the DWR e-store.

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The Prabir Trio is taking their revolutionary “raag guitar” sound across the Commonwealth this summer. This isn’t fusion...
23/07/2025

The Prabir Trio is taking their revolutionary “raag guitar” sound across the Commonwealth this summer. This isn’t fusion for fusion’s sake — Prabir Mehta’s approach honors the precision of Indian classical tradition while embracing the raw emotion of American roots music, creating something that feels both ancient and urgently contemporary.

Their new live EP “Jivant” releases July 24, capturing those electric moments that prove some music can only be born in front of a live audience.

THE “WET HOT VIRGINIAN SUMMER” TOUR:

July 24 - Richmond at The Broadberry (EP Release)
July 25 - Charlottesville at Dürty Nelly's Pub - Deli
July 26 - Norfolk at The Taphouse Grill
August 15 - Roanoke at The Spot On Kirk

The summer tour traces Virginia’s musical DNA across four distinct landscapes. From capital city venues to mountain music heartland, each venue tells part of Virginia’s story — and each will hear that story reimagined through Mehta’s innovative lens.

The Prabir Trio represents more than musical innovation — they embody Virginia’s multicultural evolution, proving that tradition and transformation can coexist beautifully. In a world hungry for authentic connection, their music offers something genuinely new: the sound of home, reimagined.

Read the full story ⬇️ https://richmondgrid.com/virginias-prabir-trio-merges-indian-ragas-with-american-folk-on-live-ep-jivant/

Things are about to get a little prickly at Maymont (). Two female porcupettes, the official name for baby porcupines, h...
21/07/2025

Things are about to get a little prickly at Maymont (). Two female porcupettes, the official name for baby porcupines, have been quietly settling into a specially designed nursery room in the River City over the past few weeks. Soon, they’ll make their public debut on Friday, July 25, when guests to The Robins Nature Center can watch the duo tumble, snack, and nap through large nursery viewing windows.

Born in Michigan this past May, the porcupettes needed a new home once weaned, as they wouldn’t survive on their own in the wild. Now safe and cozy at Maymont, the pair will eventually move into a custom outdoor habitat currently under construction along the Virginia Wildlife Trail, part of the Maymont 2025 initiative. The renovated trail is set to reopen in 2026.

One of the porcupettes has already been named Sandy, thanks to a generous Maymont donor. But her sister? She still needs a name — and that’s where you come in.

Now through August 17, the public is invited to submit name suggestions by making a donation to support animal care and the Maymont 2025 initiative.

Yes, we’re looking at you, — Hammie Mae may have lost the hippo crown, but maybe she was just meant to be a porcupette all along.

At any rate, the top four names will be announced for a community vote from August 22–28, and the winning name will be revealed on September 6 at The Robins Nature Center and shared on social media and Maymont.org.

Last night’s Tiny Porch Concert Series lit up the streets of Woodland Heights () with the kind of summer magic that has ...
21/07/2025

Last night’s Tiny Porch Concert Series lit up the streets of Woodland Heights () with the kind of summer magic that has made this community tradition one not to miss.

Launched in spring 2023 by a passionate group of neighbors, this grassroots series has quickly become one of Richmond’s most beloved music experiences. With three host porches and six local performers, it’s more than a concert series — it’s a walkable celebration of what makes this Southside neighborhood feel like home.

Musical sets included Jaycie Cuprill, The Folly, Jonathan Walsh, Rikki Rakki, Lagoon Music, Keely and the Tea Lights.

Photographer Dave Parrish () was there to capture all the tunes and the joy of neighbors coming together for Tiny Porch!

Learn more at tinyporchconcerts.org

Today marks the one-year anniversary of , a creative space that’s become home to more than 25 local artists! To celebrat...
20/07/2025

Today marks the one-year anniversary of , a creative space that’s become home to more than 25 local artists! To celebrate, they’re hosting a backyard bash from 12 to 4 p.m. that’s open to all.

The event highlights the vibrant community that’s taken root at Passion Project over the past year, with music, art, and hands-on activities that reflect the spirit of collaboration and connection. DJ will be spinning the “Queer Pleaser Playlist” in the backyard, setting the tone for a lively afternoon. Party goers can take part in backyard brick painting, try their hand at “Kandi Crafts” with , or stop by the photo booth and photocard station hosted by . Inside, limited edition Passion Project lino cut prints will be on display, and attendees can be among the first to purchase official Passion Project apparel available on a sliding scale from $5 to $10. Branded totes will also be available for $5.

This is a free event, and one of the many ways Passion Project is thanking the community for a year of support, creativity, and love. Donations are welcomed and appreciated to help sustain the mission of this passionate art collective.

Stop by today between noon and 4 p.m. to meet the artists, make something new, and celebrate all that’s been built — and all that’s still to come.

📍121 E Main St

July 2025 marks the 161st birthday of Maggie Lena Walker, one of Richmond’s most beloved community advocates and civic l...
20/07/2025

July 2025 marks the 161st birthday of Maggie Lena Walker, one of Richmond’s most beloved community advocates and civic leaders. Devoted to a life of service, Maggie Walker believed that through the power of mutual support and solidarity, a community could greatly advance civil rights, economic empowerment, and educational opportunity for themselves and their neighbors.

Over the past two weeks, Richmond has honored her legacy through a series of neighborhood events, volunteer service, special tours, and exhibits — all tied to the theme “Labor of Love.” In that same spirit, Richmonders gathered today to honor Walker’s legacy of community-building in the Jackson Ward neighborhood. Service projects were held throughout the area, with all volunteers first reporting to the Maggie Walker Historic Site () to receive gloves and equipment before being guided to their project locations by Parks staff.

The event brought together the Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities () alongside members of the broader community. Among those rolling up their sleeves were Mrs. Walker’s great-great-granddaughter Liza Mickens (), Mayor Danny Avula (), and City Council member Katherine Jordan () pictured here at Abner Clay Park.

Back at the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, visitors enjoyed house tours and special programs honoring Mrs. Walker’s legacy — right where she lived and led.

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LeVar Carter () stands beside RVA Community Fridges 2.0, a freshly painted Vissani fridge wrapped in vibrant color and l...
19/07/2025

LeVar Carter () stands beside RVA Community Fridges 2.0, a freshly painted Vissani fridge wrapped in vibrant color and layered meaning. Commissioned by Fonticello Food Forest () and RVA Community Fridges (), two community-powered groups focused on food access, the piece blends public art with mutual aid, offering free food to neighbors in Richmond.

The mural builds on one Carter first painted in August 2023. When the original fridge had to be moved due to electrical and environmental issues, a new unit was brought in. Carter was invited to return to the concept. Rather than repeat the original, he took it further.

Each side of the fridge highlights a different energy: a spectral lens flare on the sun side, a moonbow halo, and a rainbow-ringed array of fruits. Carter brought in both natural and spiritual symbolism, from auroras and red sprites to chakras and elemental forces like magma, water, fire, and sky.

The front shows a full landscape—sunlight, rivers, grasslands, forests—all supporting the crops that feed us. At the center, a circle of fruit acts as both a focal point and a quiet reminder to eat from across the color spectrum. Key phrases like Free Food, Comida Gratis, and Take What You Need are also included.

Painting on site wasn’t easy. Working in a tight space beside a pantry, Carter still managed to add new layers of detail. Now installed at Fonticello Food Forest, the fridge once again offers nourishment— physical and visual.

Follow and to support the work.

This week our partner publication, .weekly, is honored to feature Will Dixon as our guest editor. Will is the new Execut...
17/07/2025

This week our partner publication, .weekly, is honored to feature Will Dixon as our guest editor. Will is the new Executive Director of Sports Backers (). Will and the Sports Backers team are dedicated to making all corners of Richmond more active through events, training teams, and community programs.

A Richmond native, Will recently stepped into the Executive Director role, succeeding Jon Lugbill, who led the organization for 32 years. But Will is no stranger to Sports Backers—he’s been with the team for over 17 years, previously serving as Operations Manager, Director of Sponsorship, and most recently, Chief Administrative Officer.

Throughout his tenure, he’s helped strengthen the organization’s marketing, sponsorship, and fundraising efforts—expanding its impact on the health and vibrancy of the region. With a deep commitment to the mission, he’s excited to lead Sports Backers into its next chapter.

In this week’s issue of , Will shares some favorite outdoor spots. Top of his list? Taylor Farm Park in Henrico ()—home to a skate park, dirt pump track, splash pad, two playgrounds, and wooded trails.

He also recommends hiking Forest Hill Park, scrambling the rocks to Belle Isle, and hitting the Buttermilk Trail—followed by a beer at The Veil () and lunch at Y Tu Mama (.mx) on Forest Hill Ave.

At Deep Run Park, he suggests the pump track, fishing pond, and shaded trails for a walk or ride—plus nearby bites at Emmy Squared Pizza () or MPM Tiki Bar (), and dessert at Ray’s Italian Ice, Gelati Celesti (), or Sweet Frog.

📬 If you’re a Here subscriber, check your inbox for Will’s picks. Not subscribed? It’s free at hereweekly.com.

Leave it to Chad Williams () to capture this rooftop classic — a raft-view seat above the crowd, courtesy of RVA Paddles...
16/07/2025

Leave it to Chad Williams () to capture this rooftop classic — a raft-view seat above the crowd, courtesy of RVA Paddlesports (), for night one of Dave Matthews Band. Only in Richmond.

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The City of Richmond’s Office of Opioid and Substance Use Response has launched a new harm reduction initiative aimed at...
16/07/2025

The City of Richmond’s Office of Opioid and Substance Use Response has launched a new harm reduction initiative aimed at preventing overdoses and supporting residents living with substance use disorders. As part of this effort, harm reduction vending machines are being installed at key locations across the city.

These machines will provide free, 24/7 access to life-saving resources such as naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and personal hygiene items. The initiative is designed to reduce barriers to care, increase health equity, and ultimately save lives.

In a video released today, Jason Alley (), Policy Advisor for Opioid Response Community Outreach and Engagement, presented a breakdown of the Harm Reduction Vending Machines.

“This life-saving program is about meeting people where they are, with compassion and dignity,” said Mayor Danny Avula (). “Harm reduction vending machines are a proven tool to prevent overdose deaths and connect individuals with the support they need. Richmond is proud to be among the cities leading with science, safety, and humanity.”

The vending machines offer free, anonymous access to supplies and are available around the clock. Each machine includes QR codes that link to treatment, recovery, and support services. Locations have been strategically selected based on overdose data to serve the neighborhoods most impacted.

The first machines are now operational at Marshall Plaza (900 E. Marshall Street) and Southside Plaza (4100 Hull Street). An additional machine will be installed at East End Library (1200 N. 25th Street) later this month, with more planned for installation later this year based on community input and evolving data.

To learn more, follow and visit go.rva.gov/opioid-response.

Richmond artist and writer Sam Lee Christian () is hosting an evening of Dream Quilting — a cozy, collective workshop wh...
14/07/2025

Richmond artist and writer Sam Lee Christian () is hosting an evening of Dream Quilting — a cozy, collective workshop where vision boards take shape in soft, fiber-based form.

Join Sam on Tuesday, July 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Chromophore Art Space () for a hands-on experience that weaves creativity, reflection, and community.

Known for blending performance with mixed media, fiber, and printmaking, Sam’s work explores themes of Afro-futurism, Black joy, and the surreal landscapes of dreams.

In this workshop, participants will use guided writing prompts and group discussion to reflect on what they want and need for their future — then bring those visions to life by creating a personal quilt panel using fabric, thread, and imagination.

No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided. Whether you’re a working artist or simply curious to try something new, this is a chance to relax, connect, and make something meaningful to take home.

📍 Chromophore Art Space
309 North Adams Street, Richmond
📅 Tuesday, July 22 | 6–8 p.m.

This weekend, volunteers from Friends of East End () joined partners from the City of Richmond’s Department of Parks, Re...
14/07/2025

This weekend, volunteers from Friends of East End () joined partners from the City of Richmond’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities () at Evergreen Cemetery to haul tarps, buckets, and armfuls of brush to the road for removal. Also participating in the cleanup were partners honoring “Labor of Love,” a celebration of Maggie L. Walker’s 161st birthday that included service activities at Evergreen Cemetery.

Next, volunteers will return to finish washing and documenting the many grave markers uncovered in the historic African American burial ground surrounding the Braxton mausoleum — which is now more visible than ever.

Friends of East End is an all-volunteer nonprofit established in 2017. The group grew out of a cleanup effort that began in 2013 at East End Cemetery. The 16-acre cemetery, founded in 1897, had been overwhelmed by dense overgrowth and illegal dumping.

With the help of thousands of volunteers, the organization has worked steadily for years to clear vegetation, remove trash, and recover more than 3,300 hidden grave markers. In tandem with this hands-on restoration, they’ve conducted extensive research to reclaim the history of the cemetery and the community it served. Friends of East End also collaborates with other groups working to restore historic Black cemeteries in Richmond and beyond.

In partnership with the City of Richmond, cemetery descendants, and the broader community, Friends of East End is working to transform East End and neighboring Evergreen into public sites of memory, contemplation, and beauty — honoring Richmond’s African American past and present.

Follow for info about the next work day at Evergreen Cemetery on July 26.

📸 Brian Palmer

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