d'ART's History

d'ART's MISSION: The d'ART Center is an environment where working artists are a part of an interactive arts community that engages the public through the experience of art and the creative process. All activities at the Center are aimed at bringing artistic experiences and education to the public.

Molded by the astute vision of founding president Bill Ambrose, then President of First Virginia Bank of Tidewater, crafted by the fire and enthusiasm of Betsy Trundle, Port Folio’s first publisher, shaped by the clear insight of Bill Lindley, the Executive Director of the Norfolk Convention and Visitors Bureau and patterned after the enormously successful Torpedo Factory in Alexandria,Virginia and supported by the City and NRHA, the d'ART Center sprang to life in July of 1986 with 27 bold and daring enterprising visual artists. At the grand opening the newly renovated building flooded in a dramatic and expressive summer storm, setting the stage for the colorful adventures ahead.

The Center was established as a result of a partnership of public and community support. Renovations were funded, to a large extent, by Urban Development monies through Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority. The balance was provided through the support of the corporate and business community and private individuals. Unlike many arts organizations the d'ART Center was structured at its inception to be self-sufficient. Administrative costs are realized mainly through revenues studio rents and revenue producing arts programs. Expenses are kept in check in order to keep rents at an affordable level.

In 1986 when the Center opened there was little activity on College Place other than resident pigeons flying in and around empty buildings. Soon La Galleria opened, inspired by the Center’s atrium gallery, then the Dumbwaiter Bistro appeared, the Heritage Apartments were built and the Freemason neighborhood flourished. By the late 1990’s the College Place corridor became a thriving community of commercial, retail and residential developments. And d'ART Center property became quite visible and valuable.

In 2002, the City requested that the d'ART Center move in order to make way for development of an urban market and condos at its College Place location, so in spring of 2005 the d'ART Center with 43 artists moved into the newly renovated location at the Selden Arcade in the heart of downtown Norfolk. The new facility was funded by allocations from the City of Norfolk and fund raising efforts of the d'ART Center. The mission of the Center and all programs remained in tact.

The Center’s new home at the Selden with its light, airiness and sophisticated architectural elements has endless opportunities to provide the excitement of art to downtown businesses, visitors, cruise ship passengers and residents. The Center is bustling with renewed activity, inspired enthusiasm and commitment to bringing excellence in contemporary art to the region. The year-round art show continues and welcomes you to connect with the visual arts.