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Brushstrokes Wilder

Brushstrokes of Governor L. Douglas Wilder

An Art Exhibition & Auction Benefiting the Wilder National Ovation Scholarship 

Brushstrokes is a purposeful art auction where original paintings serve as a bridge between creativity and opportunity.

This auction features a curated selection of original works painted by Governor Wilder and created specifically for this moment. Each piece offered is a one of a kind watercolor, with select works incorporating acrylic and pencil. These paintings are not reproductions or prints. They are original expressions made available exclusively through this auction.

Every painting offered for sale directly supports the National Ovation Scholarship. Proceeds from the auction provide critical financial assistance to students pursuing degrees through the Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, helping to remove barriers and support the development of future public service leaders.

This auction reflects a deeply personal commitment. As Governor Wilder has stated, education has shaped his life, and the opportunity to give back through this work is intentional and enduring. By acquiring one of these original paintings, bidders are not only collecting art. They are investing in education, leadership, and lasting impact.

Brushstrokes is more than an auction. It is a continuation of a lifelong commitment to opportunity, expressed through original art and sustained through generosity.

Thank you for your participation and support.

L. Douglas Wilder

66th Governor of Virginia

Governor L. Douglas Wilder is a political trailblazer whose distinguished public service career spans more than seven decades. He made history as the nation’s first elected African American governor, leading the Commonwealth of Virginia from 1990 to 1994. During his administration, Virginia was twice named the best-managed state in the nation by Financial World magazine. Prior to his governorship, Wilder served with distinction as lieutenant governor and state senator, where he chaired key legislative committees and advanced landmark legislation, including expanded healthcare access for sickle-cell anemia patients and the establishment of a state holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He also made lasting contributions by diversifying Virginia’s judiciary.

In 2004, Wilder again answered the call to public service when he was elected Richmond’s first popularly elected mayor in more than 50 years, winning more than 80 percent of the vote and carrying every council district and precinct. Serving until 2009, he guided the city through a period of significant transformation marked by reduced crime, economic growth, and strengthened financial management. His tenure as mayor further reinforced his reputation as a decisive, results-driven leader committed to urban revitalization and effective governance.

Wilder’s academic and civic influence is equally enduring. A graduate of Virginia Union University and the Howard University School of Law, he co-founded one of Virginia’s earliest minority-led law firms in 1961. Today, he serves as a Distinguished Professor at the VCU L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, continuing his lifelong commitment to education, equity, and public service. A steadfast advocate for historically Black colleges and universities and for preserving historical truth, Governor Wilder is also the author of Son of Virginia: A Life in America’s Political Arena, which chronicles his extraordinary journey and enduring legacy.

Tax Disclaimer:
Artwork purchased through this auction is not considered a tax-deductible charitable contribution. If you would like to make a tax-deductible gift in direct support of the Wilder National Ovation Scholarship, please visit: https://give.vcu.edu/campaigns/59591/donations/new?designation_id=799c3fcc33f942f6903962b1aed6ce21