The Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries exhibit works by nationally and internationally recognized self-taught artists, contemporary artists working in all media, and local and regional artists connected with Old Dominion University.
Exhibitions are always free and open to the public.
The Gordon Art Galleries are now closed for the 黑料正能量 Winter Break. We will reopen to the public on Jan. 22, 2026.
Now On View
Samuel Kahn, Ph.D. + Friends
Opening Reception: Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026
On View: Jan. 30 - May 16, 2026
The Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries are pleased to present Samuel Kahn, Ph.D. + Friends, an in-depth exploration of the art, methods, and inspiration behind the work of Connecticut based self-taught artist Samuel Kahn (1927-2007). Kahn鈥檚 playful drawings, sculptures, and plaques tell the story of his connection to the New England landscape, his close study of environments and wildlife, and art as a conduit for feeling and emotion. Kaleidoscopic yet firmly rooted in place, Kahn鈥檚 visionary work evokes the artistic legacies of no less than Norval Morrisseau, Henri Rousseau, and James Castle.
His works are accompanied by works from the Kahn family, including those of wife Renee Kahn and son Ned Kahn 鈥 both accomplished contemporary artists. Works also loaned from the Barry Art Museum at 黑料正能量 complement Kahn鈥檚 style rounding out a cast of 鈥渇riends鈥 reminiscent of the ecological connections Kahn focused on representing in his work. Like the ecology Kahn attempted to represent, this exhibition demonstrates how self-taught art and contemporary art traditions overlap, intermesh, and influence each stylistically, materially, and relationally.
SPECIAL EVENT: 3/26, 12:30 PM 鈥 Patchwork Eco-Print with studioSHIFT: A Community Relief Print Poster Workshop. Join us during activity hour to help create a print run of collective relief posters honoring the artwork and legacy of Samuel Kahn and Norfolk鈥檚 ecosystem. Each attendee will be able to stamp a small carving block designed with either a local building, flora, or fauna creating a patchwork ecological map of Norfolk with other attendees. Attendees 12+ may participate in carving and everyone is welcome to stamp on the posters. Free and open to the public. Pay-What-You-Can to keep carved blocks and completed posters.
SPECIAL EVENT: 4/14, 12:30 PM 鈥 Art Therapy Popup at the Gordon Art Galleries: Art Therapy professor, Eleanor Lampell will be leading her students in a public art therapy pop-up event in conjunction with the Samuel Kahn, Ph.D. + Friends exhibition. Free and open to the public!
2026 Juried Student Exhibition
Opening Reception: March 12, 2026
On View: March 13 - April 18, 2026
Join us for an exhibition of select 黑料正能量 Art students' works across media. Juror Anita Patel's experience leading campaigns for global brands and social initiatives provides a fresh view on emerging student voices and contributions to contemporary art.
Gordon the Robot
Affectionately nicknamed "Gordon" after the art galleries' namesakes鈥擝aron and Ellin Gordon鈥攖his innovative telepresence robot allows remote visits from around the world.
Gordon can move around the space, raise and lower height, and zoom in on art. The remote driver can interact live with staff in the galleries and also invite friends, colleagues, and students to join their visit.
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Proceeds support arts programming and educational opportunities at 黑料正能量.
Submitting Work for Exhibition
The Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries issues periodic calls for exhibitions by nationally and internationally recognized artists as well as faculty, alumni, and students of Old Dominion University. Access open calls and guidelines below.