Visitors to The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen are now welcomed by a newly installed LOVE sculpture at the Center’s main entrance, thanks to the dedication and leadership of a local Eagle Scout whose project reflects the Center’s mission of inspiring, enriching, and bringing the community together through the arts.
“The Cultural Arts Center was one of the first places my family visited after moving from Chicago to Richmond, and it quickly became a special place for us,” said the project leader, Danielle Chen. “My sister and I attended weekly dance classes there for years, and I recently had the opportunity to exhibit my artwork in one of its galleries. The Arts Center is truly a gem in our community and plays an important role in bringing people together through arts and cultural events.”
The project was completed as part of Scouting America’s Eagle Scout Service Project, which challenges Scouts to plan, develop, and lead a significant community service initiative. The LOVEworks sculpture was designed, built, and installed by Danielle Chen, a member of Scouting America Troop 736, Glen Allen, along with troop members and volunteers, creating a lasting symbol of community pride and cultural engagement.
The new LOVEworks sign will have a special dedication on July 16, 2026 at 6pm at The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen. Visitors are encouraged to gather at the entrance of the Center for a brief ceremony honoring Danielle Chen and Troop 736, Glen Allen. Following the ceremony, the festivities will continue inside with the grand opening of four new exhibits. Exhibits will include: Alfonso Prez Acosta: CONVIVENCIAS; Marcia Haffmans: Skewing Lines; Pryiah Bhagat: What’s A Doll; Susan Rivers: Blemished Beauty. A wine/beer cash bar will be available that benefits The Center’s ArtReach programs. The evening promises to be a celebration of the arts, starting with the LOVEworks sign dedication.
When exploring potential Eagle Scout projects, Chen said that supporting The Cultural Arts Center was a natural choice. During an initial meeting with Arts Center leadership, the idea of creating a new LOVE sculpture emerged. Virginia has become widely recognized for its distinctive LOVEworks installations, and the previous LOVE sign at The Cultural Arts Center—which celebrated art, music, and culture—left a lasting impression on the Scout.
“I was thrilled by the opportunity,” Chen said. “I developed a detailed proposal and was grateful that both the Arts Center leadership and Troop 736 leadership approved the project and supported me throughout the process.”
The project began with an initial planning meeting with Arts Center President K Alferio and ultimately spanned 11 months from concept to completion. Approximately 20 volunteers contributed nearly 275 service hours to the effort, with most volunteers coming from Scouting America Troop 736 Glen Allen.
Chen also expressed gratitude to local businesses that helped make the sculpture possible. Special thanks were extended to The Home Depot in Glen Allen and Lowe’s in Glen Allen for providing the majority of the materials used in the construction of the LOVE sculpture.
The new installation serves as a welcoming landmark for visitors and a celebration of the Arts Center’s ongoing commitment to creativity, culture, and community connection.
About the Glen Allen Cultural Arts Center
The Glen Allen Cultural Arts Center enriches the community through diverse arts programming, performances, exhibitions, classes, and cultural events. The Center serves as a gathering place where creativity and community come together, inspiring residents and visitors of all ages.