Black Excellence: Celebration of Resilience

“Black Excellence: Celebration of Resilience” features works from local African American artists as well as the Syracuse University Art Museum and Light Work collections. A public reception will be held on Friday, Feb. 23, from 6-8 p.m. Gallery hours are Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, noon – 5 p.m., or by appointment.

“Black Excellence: Celebration of Resilience” offers a holistic and diverse portrayal of the African American experience, featuring influential African American artists who have played a pivotal role in introducing vibrant colors and unique outlooks to the city of Syracuse’s artistic landscape. The work on display transcends mere aesthetics; they serve as a reflection of the African American journey, allowing all members of the Syracuse community to engage with and appreciate this rich and complex history. Topics such as identity, racial discrimination, fashion, and heritage are intertwined through a range of objects, from 1950s fashion to black and white documentary photography to contemporary art.

The exhibition is curated by Trinity Lowe G’24, a graduate museum studies student in the College of Visual and Performing Arts’ School of Design.