We genuinely care about the health and well-being of everyone who uses our spaces, so we are taking precautions to ensure that our entire community stays safe. We’ve updated our COVID-19 policies and procedures. Beginning with our spring 2022 session that starts March 28th, 2022, we will require that all adults ages 18 and over be fully vaccinated (as defined by the CDC) in order to attend in-person classes or participate in our studio access program.
Go to visarts.org to learn more and to submit your proof of vaccination online or via email to receive a discount code for $10 off a VisArts class!
Richard Hayes is the co-founder of RVAHub. When he isn't rounding up neighborhood news, he's likely watching soccer or chasing down the latest and greatest board game.
Sharks are one of the oldest and most successful predators ever to have lived, but their millions of years of existence still haven’t given humans enough time to overcome fears about the misunderstood animal. In a new touring exhibition on display at the Science Museum of Virginia beginning May 28, guests will learn that sharks have more to fear about humans than we do about the fascinating aquatic creatures.
In “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey,” guests will trace millions of years of evolution, come face-to-face with the great white shark, learn the true impact of the shark fin trade and gain a new level of respect for sharks of all shapes and sizes. The exhibition features shark models cast from real animals, a collection of real teeth and jaws, and extremely rare fossils — some up to 370 million years old.
“Often, what we don’t understand, we fear,” said Virginia C. Ellett Director of Education Timshel Purdum. “The fact that sharks are mysterious combined with decades of media hype has made us scared to dive into their underwater world. In this exhibition, guests will see that sharks are majestic, diverse, powerful and supremely adapted for their environment. Most importantly, they will see that humans are the real threat through practices driving dozens of species to the brink of extinction.”
Photo provided by Science Museum of Virginia
Created in Australia by Grande Experiences and an international team of experts in sharks, marine biology and oceanographic cinematography, “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey” is the only comprehensive shark experience to tour the world. An immersive walk-through gallery utilizes cinema-quality SENSORY4™ technology and features 45 minutes of incredible high-definition underwater footage of sharks in their natural habitats.
“Learning about jaw-dropping shark adaptations and incredible behaviors will go a long way toward helping guests face their fear,” said Purdum. “We’re celebrating all things shark this summer, and I’m confident our enthusiasm for these amazing animals will not only entertain, but also change perspectives.”
Whether they are filled with fear or fascination, the innovative out-of-water shark experience will have guests hooked from start to finish.
Photo provided by Science Museum of Virginia
To complement the exhibition, the Science Museum is offering ocean-themed demos and educational activities throughout the building and hosting Science After Dark events and Lunch Break Science presentations. In addition, the Science Museum is showing the giant screen film “Great White Shark” in The Dome this summer and is hosting “JARS: Sharks on Loan,” a touring exhibition featuring dozens of shark specimens in jars from the Virginia Institute of Marine Science at the College of William & Mary.
During regular Science Museum operating hours (9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.), admission to “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey” is available through a combination ticket that includes access to the exhibition as well regular Science Museum exhibits. Admission is $21 for adults; $18.50 for youth (ages 6 – 12) and seniors (ages 60 and older); and $15 for preschool-aged children (ages 3 – 5). Discounts are available for teachers, military personnel and EBT cardholders. Science Museum members receive free admission to the exhibition. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets at smv.org.
Not only is the Science Museum reopening seven days a week when “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey” debuts, but to give guests even more chances to see the exhibition while it’s in Richmond, the Science Museum is also offering extended hours June 3 through September 2. On Fridays, the Science Museum will remain open until 8 p.m. “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey” will be the only experience open after 5 p.m., and admission is only $10 during those evenings.
The suspension pedestrian bridge to Belle Isle is temporarily closed due to concrete falling from Lee Bridge.
The closure took place Wednesday after city officials received reports of concrete pieces being found on the pedestrian bridge.
“It was concluded that the concrete pieces fell from an open joint of the Lee Bridge. Consequently, the pedestrian bridge located directly under the open joint had to be closed in an effort to protect the public,” a release said.
While the engineers say there is no serious danger they’re putting in a scaffolding protection system along some stretches of the bridge. The installation is taking place today (Thursday) and is expected to be done Friday.
Dominion RiverRock is this weekend and temperatures are in expected in the upper 90’s so usage of the bridge and Belle Isle will be at a season-high.
Legend Brewing Company is the oldest operating craft brewery in Virginia. As their Vice President of Operations, Dave Gott, told us, “It’s important that you be a part of the community – not just IN the community.” Legend has hosted our board meetings and annual get-togethers. On any given weekend (and often any given day) their parking lot is full of cars carrying kayaks and bicycles, and their patio is crowded with people who have spent the day enjoying the James River Park System.
Given their proximity to the James River and our Park, we were elated when they floated the idea of creating a special beer for our organization. Raging James Pilsner is their newest release, and a portion of the sale of each can will help us continue our efforts. Legend has supported Richmond for almost 30 years, and as we approach 50 years of commitment to the Park, we’re honored to partner with them on this.
