Exploring the MSV: Dinosaurs, Garden Lights, and Frida Kahlo

Nestled in the heart of Winchester, Virginia, the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley (MSV) is more than just a repository of art and history—it's a vibrant, ever-evolving community hub. In this episode of "The Valley Today," host Janet Michael sat down with Julie Armel, the museum's Deputy Director of Marketing and Communications, to uncover the stories, exhibits, and people that make the MSV a regional treasure. The conversation opens with a sense of homecoming, as Janet recalls her long-standing relationship with the museum and marvels at its transformation over the past two decades. Julie offers listeners a sweeping overview: the MSV spans nearly 200 acres, featuring the largest green space and only working farm within Winchester's city limits. Visitors can explore formal gardens, the historic Glen Burnie House, and a dynamic galleries building that tells the story of the Shenandoah Valley through permanent and rotating exhibitions. One of the museum's standout features is its commitment to change and innovation. Julie describes the ever-shifting landscape of outdoor exhibits, from the whimsical "Gardens of Glass" to the current showstopper: "Scraposaurs," a collection of giant prehistoric creatures crafted from scrap metal. These imaginative sculptures, including a T-Rex with John Deere rotary hoe teeth and a triceratops built on a Chevy truck frame, delight families and art lovers alike. The MSV's trails double as an art park, dotted with sculptures from local and internationally renowned artists, ensuring that every visit offers something new. Accessibility and community engagement are at the core of the MSV's mission. Julie highlights programs like "Museums for All," which provides free admission to families on food assistance, and special events such as Dino Con, where dinosaur-themed attire earns free entry. The museum also offers free gallery admission on Wednesdays and always welcomes children under 12 at no charge. Volunteers play a vital role, contributing thousands of hours to events like Garden Lights, a spectacular annual display of LED flowers and immersive art that draws crowds from across the region. Inside, the museum's galleries are equally dynamic. Janet and Julie discuss recent and upcoming exhibitions, including a Frida Kahlo photography show and "Curated Chaos," which offers a rare glimpse into the museum's collection storage. The MSV's educational programming is robust, with teen art clubs, workshops, and interactive activities designed to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The museum's makerspace invites creativity, while membership programs and volunteer opportunities foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Throughout the conversation, a recurring theme emerges: the MSV is a place where history, art, and community intersect. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime supporter, the museum offers a welcoming space to learn, create, and connect. As Julie notes, "There's something for everyone here." With its blend of tradition and innovation, the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley stands as a testament to the power of cultural institutions to enrich and inspire their communities.