City: Richmond, VA

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (804) 643-1708

Address: 319 W. Broad St.

Description: One of the oldest artist-run galleries in the U.S., 1708 has been at the forefront of Richmond’s vibrant art scene since its founding in 1978 by VCU arts faculty. During First Fridays, it’s easy to find the 1708 Gallery—just look for the solar-powered stars shining in the sidewalk installation called InLight Walk, a permanent example of 1708 using art to build community and transform downtown. 1708’s annual art auction in May is a big deal and a big draw, since 50 artists donate art to be bid on. And their annual Small Works invitational show in Nov and Dec makes the best of Richmond available to the public in small doses. A new, fast-paced event is 20, when twice a year eight artists share 20 pieces of work in the allotted 20 seconds per slide. The gallery is closed on Sun and Mon.