Lessons from GIANTS: What Richmond’s Creative Community Learned
“If I learned anything from the GIANTS exhibition, it’s that we should all believe in our own value and self worth, not only in the creative arts, but also in our lives.”
by Anaïs Stewart
March 5, 2026 | 7:04a
After GIANTS: the Dean Collection, was brought to the VMFA, much reflection has been ruminating and inspiring artists around the city.
Black art should be archived and kept in the right hands. When Black art is in the right hands, it's protected, preserved and even harder for it to be stolen. The Dean Collection by Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys shows us proof of that. Our past, present and future are intertwined throughout the artwork in this exhibit. Many Richmond artists of the sort got to visit the GIANTS exhibit and experience over 130 pieces from legendary artists across history. Man…if you didn't get to see the GIANTS exhibit, you truly missed out on some awe-inspiring art! But we're here to tell you what it taught Virginian artists who make art themselves!
“I think it shows that community involvement is so important, even for big names in the space when you’re trying to build a truly memorable event. It becomes more enjoyable and engaging for all parties.” - M.P.
“GIANTS taught me to shoot high. It helped me see the different possibilities of what could happen and showed me that no matter how many people tell you no, to ALWAYS try to your BEST ability. At some point, an opportunity will land and if you are prepared to execute it, it can take things to new heights for you.” - Ty Sorrell
Others in Richmond’s creative community echoed similar sentiments, describing how the GIANTS collaboration expanded their sense of what was possible.
“The GIANTS collab taught me a lot. When Mylo first called to tell me the Dean Collection and the VMFA wanted to collab with the Broad Street Bullies, it really opened my eyes to what's possible. Growing up listening to Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz, I would’ve never thought as a kid I would someday work with them. We almost got them on some bikes riding with us!!! Big shout out to the museum for letting us pop wheelies through the campus! That was really fun for us especially since we bike past it every ride out. A lot of people associated the gallery with B$B, which was really fun to hear since we really had nothing to do with the actual art, just the premiere. We as a group really put on for Richmond and Virginia as a whole, so, it was a dream come true to really get recognized for that. Sky's the limit as they say. Work with your friends, come up with some cool shit, you never know how far it could go.” - Salad from the Broad Street Bullies
In the Dean Collection, woven into every piece, is what it’s like being Black. In every aspect of it. Our culture, our lifestyles and our history. Whether it's resilience, resistance, or everyday living, it’s beautifully depicted throughout this carefully crafted exhibition. Across many diasporas.
“Having musical moguls like Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz in Richmond, VA was such an inspiration. If I learned anything from the GIANTS exhibition, it’s that we should all believe in our own value and self worth, not only in the creative arts, but also in our lives. I’m a fan of so many artists here in Richmond, and hearing the encouraging words from The Deans made me realize that with the right mindset you can achieve anything. They selected Richmond for a reason, and I think that’s a testament to the creative community we have here.” - M.Y.L.O.
A large-scale piece by Richmond-based artist Ron Stokes displayed at the VMFA during the GIANTS: Art from the Dean Collection exhibition.
This collection uplifts Black artists instead of extracting from them or their value. For centuries, our art has been stolen rather than preserved. Space is MEANT to be taken up by us and our art.
“The GIANTS exhibit reminded me of everything I stand for. It showed me how powerful it is to take up space unapologetically. It challenged me to continue living and creating at my most gigantic bold and visible self without ever shrinking.” - Justice Dwight
A piece by Jordan Casteel entitled Fallou, depicting Falloe Wadje, a clothing designer from Harlem.
“The Dean Collection GIANTS Exhibition at VMFA balanced the intersection between contemporary Fine Arts and Hip-Hop. I began following Toyin Oji Odutola on Tumblr a decade ago so to see her work “Paris Apartment” on display inspires me. I learned to not give up on putting my artworks into the world because you never know who’s into collecting art.” - Robalu Gibsun
GIANTS also shows us how art has never needed to be elitist. It can be affordable and shared to the public. Everyone deserves access to art, especially when it tells stories that are important to a certain culture.
As Swizz Beatz philosophy goes..”ARTISTS NEED TO EAT”. This reminds every artist that they need to be compensated for their creative labor and be freed from the restraints put on them by society.
GIANTS are IN US not ON US!!!
Support Local. Stay On Scene. Subscribe to The Richmond Seen.
The Richmond Seen is a vibrant digital news outlet dedicated to highlighting the Richmond scene—both the scene and the unseen. We cover everything from Hip Hop culture and culinary delights to the diverse stories and experiences that connect our community. Our mission is to celebrate the rich tapestry of Richmond’s creative energy and the voices that often go unheard.
Purchase our newspaper HERE.Help us continue the work by donating HERE.Follow us on Instagram.