Mount Trashmore Park Hosts Sanctuary Art Installation
The Virginia Beach Cultural Affairs Department is launching a large-scale temporary public art installation called Sanctuary at Mount Trashmore Park, featuring over 4,000 individual elements designed by the Australian creative team Skunk Control. A free community celebration will mark the opening on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., featuring a food truck and children’s activities, according to the City of Virginia Beach.
Immersive Outdoor Experience Details
Located near shelter 3 in the park's southeast corner, the installation transforms the terrain into an environment of movement, color, light, and sound. The experience features 17-foot kinetic flowers, animated birds, and over 1,300 butterflies inspired by the natural world. Skunk Control, a collective of artists, scientists, engineers, and designers, built the display using kinetic sculpture, solar elements, optics, and lighting. Sanctuary remains on view from Oct. 17 through Dec. 16 during regular park hours.
Illuminated Evening Access Hours
Special illuminated evening access will be offered until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, giving visitors a chance to see the changing effects after dark. The nighttime viewing excludes Halloween night. The project receives backing from the City of Virginia Beach’s arts and culture dedication, which was established in 2024 to expand public art experiences throughout the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sanctuary
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How much does it cost to visit Sanctuary at Mount Trashmore Park?
Admission to the public art installation is free, including the community celebration on opening day. Visitors can view the exhibit during regular park hours from Oct. 17 through Dec. 16. -
Where exactly is the installation located within the park?
The exhibit is situated near shelter 3 in the southeast corner of Mount Trashmore Park. -
When can visitors see the installation illuminated at night?
Special evening access runs until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, excluding Halloween, through the duration of the exhibition.
Worth a look