Month: January 2024

Get ready, art lovers! The Butler Institute of American Art is gearing up for something truly special. Mark your calendars because soon, the walls of this prestigious museum will come alive with the creations of extraordinary Black artists! That’s right, a brand new exhibition is on the horizon, dedicated to showcasing the talent and brilliance of African American artists who have shaped the landscape of American art.

Now, some of you might know the Butler as a place where American heroes of art like Winslow Homer and Mary Cassatt reign supreme. But this exhibition is about shining a spotlight on another corner of our artistic heritage, one that deserves to be seen and celebrated. It’s about recognizing the voices that have often been overlooked, the stories that haven’t always been told, and the colors that have been waiting to burst onto the canvas.

Think of it like opening a new chapter in the Butler’s story. Each brushstroke, each sculpture, each photograph will be a piece of the unique puzzle that is Black art in America. You’ll witness the struggles and triumphs, the joy and sorrow, the beauty and power that have been poured into these amazing works.

But why all the fuss about Black artists, you might ask? Well, because for too long, their contributions have been hidden in the shadows. Their perspectives, their experiences, their vision of the world – all of it has been underrepresented in the grand museums and galleries. This exhibition is about changing that. It’s about saying, “Look! Here are the stories you haven’t heard, the art you haven’t seen, the voices you haven’t listened to.”

And who are these voices, you ask? You’ll encounter the bold lines and vivid colors of quilt artist Bisa Butler, who brings history to life with threads and fabrics. You’ll meet the photographer Kerry James Marshall, whose portraits challenge our understanding of race and identity. You’ll be captivated by the mixed-media masterpieces of Faith Ringgold, who tells stories through fabric and paint that ignite your imagination.

These are just a few of the many artists who will be taking center stage. Each one brings their own unique style, their own perspective, their own piece of the Black experience. And together, they create a symphony of creativity that will resonate with you long after you leave the museum.

But this exhibition isn’t just about looking at art, it’s about experiencing it. You’ll see history come alive in paintings, feel the pulse of music in photographs, and hear the whispers of stories in sculptures. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of African American culture, a new appreciation for the human spirit, and maybe even a spark of inspiration to create something yourself.

So, whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or just starting to explore the world of museums, come to the Butler with an open mind and a curious heart. Let yourself be swept away by the brilliance of Black artists, and discover the hidden chapters in the story of American art. This is more than just an exhibition, it’s a celebration of talent, a tribute to resilience, and a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places.

So, mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to be amazed! The Butler’s Black artists exhibition is coming soon, and you won’t want to miss it. Let’s shine a light on these incredible artists and their stories, together.

And remember, this is just a taste of what’s to come. The exhibition is still being curated, so who knows what other artistic gems they might have in store! So stay tuned, keep an eye out for updates, and prepare to be dazzled by the power of Black art at the Butler!