Virginia MOCA Opens New Campus Building in 2026 with Nina Chanel Abney Solo Show

A new 35,000-square-foot facility at Virginia Wesleyan University in Virginia Beach is set to be inaugurated by the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art on April 18, 2026. This building will include larger galleries, ARTlab educational spaces, versatile studios, and event venues, enhancing programmable space by 20%. Alison Byrne, the executive director, emphasized the importance of community involvement and educational collaborations. The opening exhibition will showcase Nina Chanel Abney's "The Pursuit of Happiness," available until August 16, 2026. A sold-out discussion featuring Abney and Pusha T is scheduled for April 16 as a pre-launch event. Virginia residents can enjoy free admission. Additionally, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is hosting "Titus Kaphar and Junius Brutus Stearns" until July 26, 2026, and "Mary Lovelace O'Neal" from April 18 to August 2, 2026.