Cultural Renaissance
The city of Petersburg, Virginia has long been in something of a cultural slump. Once a renowned commercial center for transporting and processing cotton, tobacco and metal, produced and shipped from the region, the city boasted a thriving ironworks industry whose remnants can be seen in the antebellum architecture that remains. I can think of several examples of incredible architecture just in the space of a few square blocks that inspire me. Of these, a highlight would have to be the Petersburg Courthouse, a gem in the skyline of Petersburg and a magnificent specimen of Classical Revival of from what I understand, is the or one of the oldest operational courthouses in the country. Also, of my favorites, is Battersea, a colonial era Palladian mansion and Blandford Church and Cemetery (where many a Traylor lies in eternal rest) that boasts an impressive collection of Tiffany stained glass windows.
I tend to head down to the city when I am looking for some external inspiration. The Olde Towne District is one of my favorite haunts. It’s the city’s hub of the arts renaissance. TT and I can often be found gallery hopping on Second Friday for the Arts. We frequently visit the Petersburg Regional Art Center (PRAC). It’s a fantastic date night with loads of great restaurants and things to do. I’ll post links to a few of our fave eateries next time.
TT