chrysler museum “out of the vault” series
Step inside a brief, luminous moment where past and present meet. Out of the Vault is an exhibition series where archival works on paper are pulled from the Chrysler museum vault. This recent activation showed archival photographic prints from the Farm Security Administration (FSA) 1930s and 1940s collection. out of storage for a short public viewing, These powerful images document rural life across American communities, and for this activation many prints spotlight everyday life in Hampton Roads.
Led by Nyree Dowdy, Curatorial Fellow at the Chrysler, the exhibition pulls together a careful selection of works whose paper and light sensitivity mean they can only be shown for a limited time. To create a living conversation with that history, GoodSociety’s Phil went into the neighborhood to photograph present-day Hampton Roads — pairing contemporary perspectives alongside the archival prints so visitors could compare, contrast, and reflect.
During the pop-up a steady stream of neighbors and museum-goers stopped through. We recorded short interviews and collected on-the-ground responses; the mood was warm, curious, and community-forward. Attendees were invited to think about continuity and change — what remains, what’s shifted, and how photographic storytelling shapes our sense of place.
This was an intimate, community-focused experience: a first activation in a series that celebrates archival work while inviting local voices into the conversation. Thanks to Nyree, the Chrysler team, and everyone who came by and shared their thoughts. More activations and opportunities to engage are coming soon.
Quick facts
Free and open to the public
Temporary archival show — limited display due to material sensitivity
Archival source: Farm Security Administration photography (1930s–1940s)
Curatorial lead: Nyree Dowdy, Curatorial Fellow, Chrysler Museum of Art
GoodSociety contributor: Phil — contemporary photo series and community interviews
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