Find Us
Gallery5 is located in Historic Jackson Ward at 200 W. Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23220.
About Gallery5
Gallery5 believes in the power of the arts to promote change and engage diverse communities through inclusive collaborations and accessible programming.
As an award-winning, community-motivated visual and performing art center, Gallery5 facilitates arts experiences in partnership with cultural, educational, environmental and social organizations to encourage a more diverse, inclusive, and inspired region of art supporters.
Gallery5’s art exhibitions range from themed solo or group shows, international notables, local favorites and emerging unknowns whose works deserve more public exposure. Every month new work is on display, and our monthly First Friday openings are free and open to the public inspire positive social and economic change and awareness.
In addition to showcasing visual art, the gallery has played host to hundreds of musicians and performing arts groups over the years. Stage performances include local and nationally known artists in comedy, live music of all genres, burlesque, spoken word, film, contemporary dance, and theater.
Our goal is to facilitate and inspire cultural creativity in our region, and we continue to be a catalyst for new initiatives. For almost 19 years we have served as a launching pad for emerging artists and area non-profits, and we exist to provide our community with a space to share their innovations and to engage others.
History
The gallery opened its doors on April 15, 2005 in an effort to save the life of a National Historic Landmark known as Steamer Company No. 5.
Built in 1883 (to replace the previous firehouse that dated to 1849), Steamer Company No. 5, is Virginia’s oldest standing firehouse and Richmond’s oldest police station and jailhouse. This landmark has survived threats of demolition by the City of Richmond for over 3 decades. Without the dedication of volunteers over the past 40 years, an important piece of our city’s history would have been lost.
The downtown arts community has grown exponentially since Gallery5 became an anchor destination, attracting other galleries and businesses to the area. Gallery5 is very proud of its contribution to the revitalization of the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood, and to the many artists and arts organizations that call the area home. Gallery5 is paving the way for positive community change through numerous campaigns, educational workshops, public arts collectives and grassroots collaborations.
Awards
”Best Independent Art Gallery” Style Weekly’s 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 Best of Richmond Awards
”Best Underground Venue for Music and Arts” Style Weekly’s 2011 Best of Richmond Awards
#3 “Best Museum or Gallery” (behind only the VMFA and Science Museum of Virginia!) in Richmond Magazine’s Best and Worst of Richmond 2023
#2 “Best Nonprofit Art Gallery or Museum” (2nd to the VMFA!) in Richmond Magazine’s Best & Worst of Richmond 2021, 2020, 2018, 2012
#2 “Gallery with the Most Thought-Provoking Work” (2nd to the VMFA!) in Richmond Magazine’s Best & Worst of Richmond 2014
“Best Nonprofit Art Gallery or Museum” in Richmond Magazine’s Best & Worst of Richmond 2013
“Best Gallery in which to see Richmond Artists” Richmond Magazine’s 2011 Best & Worst of Richmond
“Rising Star” Finalist in the Virginian’s for the Arts: 2010 Art’s Builds Community Awards
“Gallery with the Most Attitude” 2009 Richmond Magazine’s Best & Worst of Richmond
“Arts Innovator of the Year” 2008 Theresa Pollock Award for Excellence in the Arts
“Best Art Gallery” in Richmond Magazine’s 2007 Best & Worst of Richmond Awards
Featured on the front page of the Travel section of The New York Times in their article 36 Hours in Richmond: A Where to go guide for Richmond
Style Weekly’s Top 40 Under 40 awarded to several of our staff members & collaborators