This month, we caught up with Daphne Maxwell Reid, actress, photographic artist, fashion designer, businesswoman, and the host of WCVE’s Virginia Currents, the weekly broadcast series from the Community Idea Stations that specializes in storytelling.
In her Virginia Currents role for the past four years, Daphne has shared information on everything from forensic nurses combating human trafficking in Richmond to the artistic journey of Virginia violinist Eric Stanley.
Looking at Daphne’s diverse interests and successful career, the scope of stories told on the show might be one of the things that attracted her to the position. Daphne’s 40-year career in the arts began with a degree from Northwestern University in interior design and architecture. Best known as Aunt Vivian from the NBC hit comedy, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air (1990-96), today Daphne is an avid photographer of doors from around the world, and has published three books featuring images of doors from Cuba and Belgium, along with the stories of her journeys. She also has launched her own limited-edition line of wearable art – a collection of custom-made Chinese silk brocade jackets called Daphne Style – which she makes herself.
Daphne and husband Tim Reid, actor/director and Norfolk native who founded Legacy Media Institute to advance the art of media production for a diverse global society, moved to Charlottesville, Virginia, in 1989, and more recently, to the Fan in Richmond. When it comes to helping families recognize the value of arts in education and in the community, Daphne (a mother herself) offers this advice to parents: “Teach your children how to survive by learning how to cook, clean, find work, do that work with conviction, and find their passion. Support your kids’ dreams, and don’t get in the way. Arts build character and communities.”
Keep reading to learn more about media personality, photographic and textile artist, and champion of the arts Daphne Maxwell Reid.
Mountains or beach?
Depends on my mood, but beach first
Dogs or cats?
Neither
If you were stranded on a desert island, what food would you want to grow on trees?
Peanut butter
What podcast are you hooked on? OR Is there a series you binge-watch?
Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me!, Ask Me Another, Modern Love, and Aspen Ideas to Go
Favorite Richmond restaurant when friends and family come to town?
Spoonbread Bistro
When it’s just you and your husband?
Can Can Brasserie
What’s the last live performance – concert, musical, or play – you attended in Richmond?
We enjoy the Richmond Forum.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Vatulele Island – it’s near Fiji.
What is your favorite way to spend a rainy Sunday?
Sewing
What is your energy source?
Joy
Finish this sentence: “My family loves it when I…
am happy.”
Readers will be surprised to know:
I’m a darn good cook!
