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FIGHTERS FOR FREEDOM: WILLIAM H. JOHNSON PICTURING JUSTICE AT THE OKLAHOMA CITY MUSEUM OF ART. WILLIAM H. JOHNSON, BOOKER T. WASHINGTON LEGEND , CA.
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BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED. 1944-1945, OIL ON PLYWOOD, SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM, GIFT OF THE HARMON FOUNDATION, 1967.59.664 Experience history and spark conversation through art
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art opens two new exhibitions in mid-February that meld art and history. Art and Activism at Tougaloo College tells the story of the first modern art collection in Mississippi, housed at the Historically Black College. The collection was acquired for the college by leaders of the New York art world, beginning with pieces by well-known artists like Pablo Picasso. As the students became more involved, they requested works by Black American artists, leading to a collection featuring works by artists such as Jacob Lawrence, Alma Thomas and Romare Bearden. This program came to light as civil rights protests swirled across the fiercely segregated state and Black students weren’t allowed in other museums. “Students wanted to see paintings that looked like them,” said Dr. Bryn Schockmel, coordinating curator for Art and Activism . “It might seem small but it made a huge difference to the students.” Alongside the art, visitors will find a timeline of civil rights events happening simultaneously. In addition to appreciating the vibrant and varied works of art, visitors will gain insight into the intersections of modern art and social justice. Schockmel
hopes student visitors will see how art can be used to convey emotions and incite positive change. Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice is a 1940s era series of paintings by William H. Johnson created as a tribute to Black activists, scientists, teachers and performers, as well as heads of state working to bring peace to the world. Coming from the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the works feature both famous historical figures, like Harriet Tubman, George Washington Carver and Mahatma Gandhi, as well as lesser-known individuals. Using bright colors and an almost cartoon- like style, Johnson’s work will be especially appealing to young visitors as the scene around each individual represents the story of their lives. OKCMOA will provide four touchable versions of the artworks for visitors who are blind or low vision or those looking to have a more sensory rich experience with art. Both exhibitions will run Feb. 18 through May 14. Schools can take advantage of free field trips, either in person or virtually, as well as reimbursement for bussing and substitute teachers. Find more information at okcmoa.com.
ART AND ACTIVISM AT TOUGALOO COLLEGE AT THE OKLAHOMA CITY MUSEUM OF ART. DAVID DRISKELL, SWING LOW, SWEET CHARIOT , 1972. ACRYLIC ON CANVAS, 50 X 36 IN. PURCHASED BY TOUGALOO COLLEGE WITH SUPPORT FROM THE NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS, 1973.084, © ESTATE OF DAVID DRISKELL, COURTESY DC MOORE GALLERY AND AMERICAN FEDERATION OF ARTS.
40 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JAN-FEB 2023
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