Applications Open
September 1 – October 31
Artists selected for Gallery
November
Artwork Drop Off (for accepted artists)
January 2 – January 11
Diversity Gallery Open
January 17 – March 22
Artwork Pickup
March 23 – March 31
Norfolk Botanical Garden invites local artists to join us in a creative exploration of celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Garden encourages artists to showcase how diverse the cultures, experiences, and identities are that comprise our Hampton Roads community.
Requirements: You must be 18 years or older to apply and be a part of an under represented minority community. All artworks must be suitable for wall display and equipped with an appropriate wire hanging system.
Questions: If you have any questions regarding this exhibit, please do not hesitate to reach out. You can contact us at 757-441-5830 ext. 311 or specialevents@nbgs.org.
Thank you to Our Community Partner
We extend our sincere gratitude to The Barry Art Museum for their support for our Diversity Gallery. They will assist in the selection process.
Where community and nature meets
Meet Nate Cody: Creator of Diversity Gallery
Nate Cody has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from VCU is a former employee of NBG. He is the visionary behind the Garden’s Diversity Gallery, an initiative designed to support the Garden’s mission of fostering an inclusive and welcoming community space. Developed through the NBG President’s Council on Inclusion and Diversity, the gallery features work from artists of diverse backgrounds, each sharing their unique stories and identities. Nate was accepted into the prestigious 2025 Longwood Gardens Fellows Program and was also honored with the Garden’s Groundbreaker award in 2025.
Community is at the heart of Norfolk Botanical Garden. As a sanctuary for individuals to connect not only with the stunning botanical collections but also with each other, the Garden serves as a place where diverse backgrounds and perspectives come together in a shared appreciation for nature. Through educational programs, volunteer efforts, and tranquil walks among the blooms, Norfolk Botanical Garden cultivates a sense of unity and belonging, fostering relationships that enrich both the spirit and the environment.
As we continue in our commitment to lead the way in representing diversity, equity, and inclusion in our community, it is paramount to us that NBG continues represent a Garden for All. We acknowledge the land and labor sacrifices made for our campus, and celebrate the legacy of all historic and contemporary peoples who made Norfolk Botanical Garden possible.
Explore the Garden
Learn about our humble beginnings
