New exhibition coming to the BYU Museum of Art, depicts 20th century African American History

PROVO, Utah — American artist Romare Bearden’s new exhibition at the BYU Museum of Art will open Saturday, Oct. 15. 

The Romare Bearden Foundation organized the new exhibition, which will feature more than 50 works from the artist, says a release from the BYU Museum of Art.  The diverse collection includes original collages, watercolors, limited edition prints, rare archive material and more.

The exhibition will depict examples of Bearden’s influences on social conscience and action. In a release from BYU, it says Bearden countered racial stereotypes through his art. 

Furthermore, the release says Bearden witnessed, participated in, and depicts paramount events in 20th-century African American History through his artwork.

“I am so excited for our community to experience the art of Romare Bearden. His message is as relevant today as it was during his lifetime,” said MOA Curator Melanie Allred. “This world needs more opportunities to celebrate diversity while feeling united through shared human experiences—which is precisely the aim of Bearden’s work. If you are craving an exceptional example of how to heal a fractured world, come to the exhibit!”

Thus far, this traveling exhibition has stopped at the Black History Museum, Richmond, VA, the Susquehanna Art Museum, Harrisburg, PA, the Reginald Lewis Museum, Baltimore, MD, the National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, TN, The Driskell Center, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, and the Frick, Pittsburgh, PA. 

After its appearance at BYU’s Museum of Art, the exhibition will go on to the Long Island Museum, Stony Brook, NY.

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