Discovering the Treasures of the Harvey B Gantt Center for African American Arts Culture
The Harvey B Gantt Center for African American Arts Culture is a cultural institution situated in Charlotte, North Carolina. The center is named after Harvey B Gantt, who was the first African American mayor of Charlotte and a prominent civil rights leader. The center has a mission to preserve and celebrate African American art, history, and culture, and it has been successful in achieving its goal over the years.
History of the Harvey B Gantt Center
The Harvey B Gantt Center was initially established in 1974 as the Afro-American Cultural Center. The center started with a mission to preserve and showcase African American culture and history in the Charlotte region. The center’s collection of artworks has grown over the years to include paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other forms of artwork, including works by significant African American artists.
In 2009, the Afri-can American Cultural Center changed its name to the Harvey B Gantt Center for African American Arts Culture to honor Harvey B Gantt, a significant civil rights leader and the first African American mayor of Charlotte. The center’s mission remains the same, but it has expanded its collection and art forms to illustrate more fully the diverse and fascinating culture of African Americans.
Permanent Collection
The Harvey B Gantt Center features a substantial permanent collection. The collection includes work from notable African American artists such as Romare Bearden, John Biggers, Elizabeth Catlett, and Jacob Lawrence, among others. The artworks represent different styles, including African American contemporary art, African art, and African American modernism. The center’s collection is a testament to the rich African American culture and history in America.
One of the most popular permanent exhibits at the center is the “Journey” exhibit. The exhibit showcases the African American journey throughout history, mainly highlighting the struggles and triumphs through slavery, segregation, and civil rights activism. Another popular exhibit is “The New Galleries,” showcasing selected works from the center’s vast collection.
Special Exhibits
The center also showcases special exhibits that run periodically throughout the year. These exhibits feature works from internationally renowned artists with a specific focus on African American art, history, and culture—examples of past exhibitions that include “Affrilachian Artists Project,” “African-Print Fashion Now!,” and “Vantage Point.”
The exhibitions include workshops, talks, lectures, and other programmes to enhance the learning and experience of visitors. The center’s website has a schedule of upcoming exhibitions that visitors can look up and plan their visits accordingly.
Education and Outreach
The Harvey B Gantt Center is dedicated to educating visitors of all ages about African American art, history, and culture. The center offers several educational programs and resources designed to support students, teachers, and other members of the community to access historical archives, online lessons, lectures, and workshops.
The center’s outreach program emphasizes providing essential art education to kids who do not have ready access to art education or art appreciation. The outreach program provides art education to over 40 schools and community centers in the greater Charlotte region.
Conclusion
The Harvey B Gantt Center for African American Arts Culture is an important cultural institution that offers a valuable insight into African American history, art, and culture. The center’s permanent and special exhibitions are an opportunity for visitors to experience African American art and culture firsthand. The center’s educational programs and outreach initiatives allow visitors from all walks of life to appreciate the value of African American art and learn about its essential contribution to American culture.
