Help Save Anne's Visual Art Studio

As many of you know, I have been an exhibiting artist at Visual Art Studio since 2002, thanks to the support of it's owner. Anne Hart Chay has been an advocate for the arts and a leader in the development of Richmond's Downtown Arts District for over 2 decades. Her gallery, is located at 208 West Broad Street, was at the center of much of the rioting that has been part of the protests here in Richmond. Anne was instrumental in and for 13 years launching the First Friday's Art Walk the that has become part of the beautiful fabric of Richmond's downtown, served on the Arts District Task Force and has always been a supporter of artists from all walks of life. 

On Saturday, despite her attempts to protect her property and life's work, rioters broke through her windows, destroying her store front, crushing planters,  perimeter fences, and tearing up any property they could find. The gallery exterior has been repeatedly defaced, with vulgar profanity and graffiti. Meanwhile, she cannot sleep at night with the uncertainty of violence returning. This has truly shaken her to the core.

Knowing how Anne has poured her heart and soul into this gallery, I would like to ask those who have come to know and love her and the gallery as I have, to consider lending a helping hand to assist in restoring her dream. Let's show Anne that there are good people who want to see her gallery rebound and contribute to a part of downtown Richmond in its recovery. All money will go directly to the rebuilding of Anne's Visual Art Studio.