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Restore the Wild Artwork Competition Submission Deadline Extended
Public invited to opening at Richmond’s Main Street Station
Richmond, VA — The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) has extended the submission deadline for the 2025 Restore the Wild Artwork Competition to Feb. 18. Iconic subject matter combined with the historic gallery location and deadline extension are sure to inspire artists across the Commonwealth to enter and have their work showcased just steps from the James River in downtown Richmond.
The subject focus of 2025’s artwork is the federally endangered Atlantic sturgeon. Atlantic sturgeon seem like a relic of the past, with their huge size and armor-like appearance. Inextricably linked with Virginia’s history, having played an important role for Native American and colonial populations, they were rarely seen in Virginia’s tidal rivers since the mid-1900s due to over-harvest and water pollution. With revitalization efforts underway for more than 50 years and their federally endangered designation, sturgeon have recently been seen breaching and swimming in the James and other rivers again. DWR encourages artist to embrace this inspiring story to help showcase this extraordinary species. For rules and submission details, visit the DWR webpage.
The gallery exhibition will begin on Friday, March 7 with a public reception at Richmond’s Main Street Station and continue through Sunday, March 30.
Opening Night Public Reception
- Date and time: Friday, March 7, 6 – 8 p.m.
- Location: 1500 E. Main St., Richmond, VA 23219