Hours:
M-F 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sa 10:00am - 4:00pm
Closed Sunday
Call For Artists
Looking for the opportunities for artists to display? Well, look no further. Our open calls have now moved to their own page! Check out the page using the button below.
Rotating exhibit located on the 2nd floor.
The Newport News Community Gallery displays exhibits throughout the year featuring the works of local, national, and international artists. This gallery also hosts multiple student exhibits. If you are interested in having your artwork displayed at Downing-Gross, fill out our Artist Display Inquiry Form. For more information about the gallery, please feel free to contact us. We also have a Foyer Gallery.
Current Exhibit
Out of the Classroom: My Life in Folk Art
Take a journey with artist George Jackson in his first solo exhibit. This exhibition is a whimsical, folksy take on the artist’s upbringing and extensive travels. Primarily featuring illustrations on paper, “My Life in Folk Art” is an accessible and approachable avenue into the world of folk art.
On display: August 9-30, 2025
Coming Soon
Beetle Mania: Science, Arts, and the World of Beetles
Explore the wonderful world of beetles through art enhanced with vibrant colors and textures. Interactive features include a variety of giant hand-painted floor puzzles, microscopes magnifying intricate insect body anatomy, and fun photo ops. Sequential artworks (ceramics, paintings, and installations) focus on beetle metamorphosis, pollination, and symbiotic relationships.
Join us September 13, 2025, from 12-3:30pm for the opening reception which will feature a free movie showing of A Bug’s Life starting at 12pm, followed by an exclusive first look at the exhibition and meeting with the artist! Come dressed as your favorite beetle to win a themed gift basket. Free & open to the public. Light refreshments served. RSVP appreciated.
Come back on September 20, 2025 from 12-3pm for our free Family Day in the gallery featuring:
A live presentation with our friends at the Virginia Living Museum where you’ll see and interact with beetle specimens and live beetles
Beetle-themed games
Balloon animals/bugs
Face painting
Hand painted floor puzzles
Microscopes
Photo ops
And more!
Previous Exhibits
