In this time of social distancing and financial stress, we here at the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park thought we would create some "virtual" exhibits for you to enjoy in your own home while we are temporarily closed.

First up is a look at the annual True Art Showcase and Children's Contest exhibit. This display of local adult and student talent is only scheduled for display during the month of March, and we don't want these wonderful works of art to go unseen. Here's a sample of the artwork currently on exhibit.

Of the adult submissions, we’ve picked just a few to show you – one from each artist. 

First up is this beautiful photograph submitted by Big Stone Gap photographer Elissa Powers, entitled “Powell River.”

Julie Gamble entered this colorful abstract acrylic painting, entitled “Sisters.” 

Dirk Wiley submitted many nature shots, including this wildflower close-up, “Blue Ridge Woodlands.”

Artist James Ryan also submitted a number of works, including “A Misty Evening at Breaks Interstate Park.”

Something different is this clay Face Jug created by Lisa Davis, a tribute to a traditional art form of African slave communities in the south.

Pam Smith submitted several needlepoints, including this one of Biltmore House in Asheville, North Carolina.

The cheerful “Star Catcher” was painted by Savannah Smith.

Paul Miller III photographed the stunning “Garden Protector.”

“Bridge to Bad Branch Falls” was painted by Tabby Back.

Kevin Smith did the sketch of the “Farmers,” based on a work by P. Buckley Moss.

The museum also received dozens of student submissions from all ages. Here’s just a sampling:

“Vintage Pound” is a watercolor painting of Pound, Virginia, by high school student Lauren Mulkey.

“Coal Miner” is a pencil sketch done by middle schooler Emilee Brickley.

“Camping” was painted by elementary school student Olivia Smith.

High school student Ryan Mullins did the pencil drawing of the “Water Wheel,” and Jacie Bates painted “High Knob Sunset," shown at the beginning of this blog.

We hope you've enjoyed this glimpse into our museum. We’ll post some more of our artifacts in the coming weeks. If you enjoyed this, check out other museums’ online exhibits – they are a great way to see some wonderful art while self-quarantining.

Hope to see you all soon!