Envision the future with the Valentine during our 11th year of Controversy / History.

What can history tell us about our future? Given that our present has been profoundly influenced by the past, how can we purposefully shape the world of tomorrow?

In January of 2024, the Valentine will open a new exhibition, “Sculpting History,” which explores the myth of the Lost Cause through the lens of power. In this season of Controversy/History, we’ll explore the future of the big themes introduced in this new exhibition- education, violence, politics, religion and media – and consider the ideas and institutions of the past that still shape our community today. Join us as we imagine a fresh future grounded in a commitment to seeking truth, building community and serving the greater good.  How can we create a future for Richmond that creates greater opportunity for all?

Controversy/ History is free and open to the public.

Each event is co-hosted by Valentine Director Bill Martin, Kelli Lemon (of Richmond Times-Dispatch and Virginia Video Network) and Sculpting History co-curator Josh Epperson.

Scheduled topics for the 2023-24 season are:

Beyond the Book: Educating the Future
Thursday, October 5, 2023 | 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Beyond Law & Order: Building Community
Thursday, November 2, 2023 | 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Beyond Politics: Voicing Our Ideas
Tuesday, December 12, 2023 | 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Faith & Beyond: Finding Our Moral Compass
Tuesday, January 9, 2024 | 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Beyond the Information Age: Supporting Truth-Based Media
Tuesday, February 13, 2024 | 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.