David C. Driskell, a beloved leader in African diaspora art, is celebrated through a massive exhibition at the University of Maryland art space named in the artist’s honor.
Seventy artworks by Driskill and 34 prominent Black artists are displayed in “David C. Driskell & Friends: Creativity, Collaboration, and Friendship” until May 24. Included are original archival materials, such as personal letters and photos, allowing visitors to experience Driskell’s relationships in this life.
“This show is all about collaboration, creativity, and friendship,” said Dr. Abby R. Eron, assistant director of Exhibitions and Programs at The David Driskell Center and co-curator of the exhibition. “His interpersonal connections were filled with warmth and generosity of spirit, which is an inherent part of his legacy.”
Organizing a Magnificent Collection of Art
Some of the artists whose works are in the creative space at The David C. Driskell Center include Romare Bearden, John Biggers, Elizabeth Catlett, Aaron Douglas, Mel Edwards, Felrath Hines, Loïs Mailou Jones, Jacob Lawrence, Mary Lovelace O’Neal, Alma W. Thomas, Hale Woodruff and many more greats.
All works featured in the exhibition are from the permanent collection of The Driskell Center at the University of Maryland. Walking through “Driskell and Friends,” visitors will view thoughtful, sometimes subtle themes. Even though a range of artists is included, there are similarities in groupings brought together through colors and graphic elements.
“It makes sense in terms of influences,” Eron said about how individual pieces are hung together. “It connects them, and there was a personal relationship there.”
“David C. Driskell & Friends: Creativity, Collaboration, and Friendship” is the first exhibition in The Driskell Center’s newly renovated University of Maryland campus gallery.
For more information, visit the University of Maryland website umd.edu or the gallery site on Instagram @driskellcenter. The gallery’s operating hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.