VISUAL ARTS

• Current Exhibits

• Permanent Collections

Have you ever wondered how art and historic memorabilia finds its’ way to various exhibits?  How did the autographed football of Washington Redskins legend, Art Monk make its way to the Afro-American Cultural Center’s HBCU Football: North Carolina Legacies exhibit? “We asked!”

In fact, the Charlotte community began to learn through word of mouth and advance press that the AACC was going to host an exhibit surrounding the history of black college football.  As word began to spread, people began to call from all across the nation with ideas, contacts and memorabilia to contribute. 

“A Charlotte resident heard and offered his signed football as part of the exhibit.” Individuals that support the Center and the preservation of cultures have donated many of the artifacts and artwork that grace the walls of the Center.  

The Center’s permanent collection consists of over 100 works of art from renowned artists such as Elizabeth Catlett, Romare Bearden, John Biggers. The collection also includes original works of art, printed pieces, sculptures and African artifacts.

Many of the works were acquired through fund raising events, but most were donated from Center supporters. The AACC rotates the exhibits quarterly, and pieces from the permanent collection are shown annually. 

It is very difficult but rewarding work keeping the Center interesting so that people will keep coming back. The Center programming staff works with guest curators and historians to come up with exhibit ideas they can put into action. 

In fact, the AACC plans to “expand beyond the traditional ‘art gallery’ concept into a more ‘interactive’ teaching experience. We want people to be intrigued by the things they learn about African-American culture and other people of color."

By expanding the Visual Arts program to include ethnography, learning about, and learning how to talk about cultures, the AACC will reach a broader population and heightened visibility in the community. It will allow the Center to take the lead in providing African-American history and culture at a level not achievable or expected by other premier organizations in the area.