Celebrate Love with Custom Conversation Hearts in Virginia Beach

Valentine’s Day enthusiasts in Virginia Beach can express their affection creatively this year by participating in a unique art initiative. The ViBe Creative District is launching a fundraiser titled “For the LOVE of ART – Hearts on Parks,” designed to support free public programming throughout the year. From February 13 to March 7, individuals can purchase custom “conversation hearts” that will be displayed publicly, adding a burst of color and sentiment to the area.

The vibrant pastel hearts will be showcased along a 130-foot private fence owned by Ambassador Inn, located on Parks Avenue near 21st Street and the Virginia Beach Convention Center. This location offers a safe space for pedestrians to stroll and capture memorable photos against an artistic backdrop.

The initiative traces its origins to Rosemary Wilson, the vice mayor of Virginia Beach. During a trip to St. Michaels, Maryland, Wilson was inspired by a similar project called “Hearts on Talbot,” which featured red message hearts attached to wooden telephone poles. After sharing her discovery with Kate Pittman, executive director of the ViBe Creative District, the concept evolved into a local fundraiser that aims to bring cheer to the community during the dreary winter months.

“I’m excited Kate took the idea and ran with it,” Wilson remarked. “This is the time of year that’s dreary, so it will be an uplifting and happy thing for people.”

Pittman adapted the idea to fit local aesthetics and regulations, noting the absence of wooden telephone poles for heart displays and local zoning laws prohibiting attachments to public light poles. Collaborating with local graphic designer Amanda Hitchcock, Pittman developed hearts inspired by the nostalgic conversation hearts familiar to many from childhood.

The hearts will be printed on all-weather material, ensuring they withstand the elements during their display period. Customization options allow buyers to add initials or positive statements, with prices ranging from $40 to $150 depending on size. For an additional $20, individuals can keep their heart after the public display concludes on March 7.

Pittman emphasized the fundraiser’s potential for growth, stating, “We intend to make this an annual fundraiser for the ViBe Creative District nonprofit. If this becomes popular and grows, it could absolutely expand all over the ViBe.”

With the goal of fostering community connections through art, this initiative not only celebrates love but also reflects the spirit of the Virginia Beach area. Interested parties can visit vibecreativedistrict.org for more information and to place orders before the midnight deadline on Monday.