February 24, 2020
The works of several prominent self-taught African American artists are on display in the O’Brien Art Gallery at Roane State Community College’s Roane County campus, 276 Patton Lane, Harriman. The gallery is on the second floor of the O’Brien Building.
The private collection of Michael Hill, Director of Roane State’s Learning Centers and Learning Support, the exhibit includes paintings, sculpture and utilitarian objects “that are startlingly powerful in both their aesthetic forms and the life force they channel,” said Roane State Art Professor Bryan Wilkerson.
“It’s a great show,” Prof. Wilkerson added. “We’re fortunate to have it.”
The artists’ works can also be found in such prominent collections as the High Museum of Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Among the featured artists on exhibit are Mose Tolliver, David Butler, Lonnie Holley and Mary T. Smith.
The exhibit is part of Roane State’s recognition of February as Black History Month.
Hill will discuss the art during gallery talks on the following dates:
The exhibit will be on view, and Hill is available to give private tours throughout the show’s run. To request a private tour, contact Hill via email at hillm@roanestate.edu.
Gallery visits for Spring 2020 are on Monday and Wednesday by appointment. For more information, please contact Prof. Wilkerson at (865) 354-3000, extension 4788, or wilkersonbs@roanestate.edu.
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