Our dedicated group of VMFA volunteers enjoy working in the landscape to continue the museum's efforts of beautification in the E. Claiborne and Lora Robins Sculpture Garden, Mary Morton Parsons Plaza, Pauley Center and surrounding properties including the Studio School.  The impact to the community is immeasurable.  In a typical year, the garden volunteers accrue nearly 1,200 hours through their devoted service.

Volunteers meet weekly under the direction of Lead Horticulturist Michael Partusch and his top Horticulturist Jaimie Woll.  Michael reaches out directly to volunteers weekly via email about place and time to meet and a brief summary of what to be prepared for.  Tools are provided and coffee is free.  Volunteers report back each week because they love the museum, enjoy each other’s company, like to work, and appreciate the knowledge, skill and direction of the museum’s horticulturists.

Their hard work and great attitude show in the ever-evolving perennial pollinator gardens as well as the seasonal beauty of our blooming trees, evergreen shrubs and colorful annuals.  The efforts of the Sculpture Garden volunteers truly matter and contribute to the continued vibrancy of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in the in the community here in Richmond, Virginia and far beyond.

Michael Partusch, Lead Horticulturist

Peg Tipple-Chair, Sculpture Garden Volunteers