June First Friday

That's right, June is already upon us! This Friday is First Friday and as always, we've got a great lineup of events and art exhibits.

Our 7th Annual Poetry Slam, sponsored by the Friends of the Richmond Public Library, will take place at 7 pm in the basement auditorium. The slam will be hosted by Tom Sanchez Prunier, founder of SlamRichmond. Local poets are invited to compete for cash prizes on a first come, first serve basis. The conpetition is free and open to anyone who wants to enter.

"Channel Surfing," an exhibit from Richmond artist Jessica Sims, will be on display in the Gellman Room throughout June. These abstract paintings are inspired by television imagery of the late 80s and early 90s. There will also be live music from Dave Shiflet during the exhibit opening celebration from 7 to 9--another great reason to come out.

The 2011 Virginia Vistas Photo Contest winners will be on display in the Dooley Foyer. The winners of this photo contest sponsored by Scenic Virginia are on display at RPL each year, and they are always gorgeous. I'm excited to see the gems the contest produced this year.


Virginia Vistas Photo Contest Best in Show, "Snow Goose Sunset" by Ron Hugo

 In the Dooley Hall you'll see "Cuban Street Scenes," an exhibit of images from Richmond photographer Ralph R. Sell sampling the diversity of the contemporary Cuban experience.

"The Illuminations of a Scribe," colorful, vivid paintings celebrating harmony, balance, and the circle of life from Richmond artist Alonzo Boyd will be on display in the 2nd Floor Gallery.

We hope you'll be able to stop by the Main Library on Friday night during First Friday Art Walk. The library will be open until 9 pm for the festivities. Hear some poetic performances, listen to live music, and enjoy some works of art from local artists. See you then!