Virginia Folklife has awarded hundreds of Folklife Apprenticeships to artists, community leaders, and cultural practitioners across the Commonwealth since 2002. We work closely with each apprenticeship team to document their project in context.
The resulting photographs are available — at no cost — for display in Virginia’s public libraries, schools, and other community and cultural institutions. To make a request, review the catalog and complete the order form below.
By sharing these portraits, and allowing host sites to select which of the 45 pieces they wish to display, we hope to continue to widen our network of friends and recruit future apprenticeship teams. These photographs, made by media specialist Pat Jarrett between 2011 and 2019, are part of a collection curated by state folklorist Jon Lohman that was previously displayed during the annual apprenticeship showcases and at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in 2020 as the exhibition “Real Folk.”
Availability: 2027 & Beyond
The exhibit is booked through December 2026. We are accepting requests for 2027 and beyond on a rolling basis.
Exhibition Details
Specifications
The “Commonwealth of Cultures: Virginia Folklife Apprenticeships” exhibition consists of 45 framed photographs measuring 30 x 20” (landscape orientation) and 20 x 30” (portrait orientation). The pieces are wired for hanging.
Each piece is supported by a 6 x 4” descriptive label that includes a QR code to additional information on our website (see example). There is also an 18 x 24” introductory panel. Text labels are printed on a peel-and-place removable polyester fabric.
Organizations can apply to host a selection of photographs they choose (5 photo minimum) for up to 12 months (3 month minimum).
Submit Your Request
The form below allows you to choose which photos you wish to display. Virginia Folklife staff will deliver or mail your requested photographs and text labels, and we welcome other collaboration ideas. Questions? Write us at folklife@virginiahumanities.org.
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