Sisterhood Spotlight

Congratulations on your election to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts’ Board of Trustees! How is it being the first Native American woman to lead the VMFA?

Being the “first” is not intentional. Assuming a leadership role happens when one shows an interest and passion for an initiative. Interestingly, I am also the first board president from a rural farming community. I’ve also been board president at Rawls Museum Arts, and for longer than I’ve been on the board for the VMFA.

What goal are you bringing into this job?

The VMFA is a fabulous place with art that is of interest to a vast audience. The VMFA is the legacy of the many donors who enabled the museum to have a world-class collection of fine and decorative art. My intent is to encourage and support continued growth. I’m an advocate. My role is to make sure that the message gets out and to do my part to make sure people know about it. Living in a rural area, I see that art museums are not for everyone. I can be an advocate and explain to farmers, children, people from any walk of life that there is something there for everyone. That’s why we get visitors from all over. The visionary focus of the management team, the curators and the education staff makes VMFA a place accessible and relevant for all.

How does art inspire you?

Art takes me on a journey of thoughts and inner reflection. Art is also storytelling – it’s wonderful to look at a work of art and decipher the story. What was the artist trying to tell you? You can travel through time, go forward and dream into the future. The storytelling in art fascinates me.

How about art within the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia?

The Nottoway Tribe has several artists who use various mediums to express their thoughts.  Our artists have varied professional careers, but find time to connect to art that reflects our indigenous heritage. Our Council Chair is a scientist who, in her spare time, creates story quilts.  Her quilts are currently on display at the Chrysler Museum in Norfolk. The variety of creative interests include artists who exhibit drawings, beadwork, handmade instruments and floral design. Some also dabble in film making. I enjoy making functional pottery. 

What is your favorite VMFA-loaned piece in the Art Experience at the Executive Mansion?

I find the meaningful message expressed in the collection at the Executive Mansion to be that the artists are Virginians. It is a strong message of being connected to the people who are right here in Virginia. That the First Lady is highlighting talent within our state shows her appreciation for our citizens. That I thought was very significant.

What is a reflection or piece of advice from your career that you would like to share with Virginia women and girls?

See the opportunities that exist beyond perceived barriers and move forward. Every time there’s an opportunity, it’s a step towards a new adventure, a new learning experience, a part of a new personal evolution. You grow every time there’s a new opportunity. That’s why I always say “yes,” because I want to try. It keeps your mind and spirit moving forward.

About Lynette L. Allston

Lynette Lewis Allston resides where she spent her formative years on the family farm in Drewryville, Virginia. A graduate of Duke University with a degree in history and certification in secondary education, she returned to her farm after retiring from two decades of business ownership and civic engagement in Columbia, South Carolina. Lynette is currently Chief and Chair of the Tribal Council of the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia, one of 11 Tribes officially recognized by the Commonwealth. Under her leadership, the primary focus of the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia has been to offer educational outreach and opportunities to close the gap that exists in understanding the history and culture of the Nottoway Indians. She is co-author of the book entitled, DoTraTung, which offers a compelling look at the history, culture and lifestyle of the Nottoway Indians. She is also currently the President of the Board of Rawls Museum Arts, Courtland, VA.