past exhibits

More than meets the eye - perspectives from the robert e. holmes collection

January 12 - April 8, 2006

From the great masters of Romare Bearden and Thomas H. Benton to contemporary classics such as Elizabeth Catlett and David Hammons to burgeoning talents such as Dan McCleary and Leo Limon, this exhibit of selected works from the Robert E. Holmes Collection captures cultural expression and identity from a wide range of perspectives.  With a mix of African American, Latino, African and European artists depicting each other as well as their native cultures, the exhibition compels viewers to examine their interpretations and assumptions about the works and their makers.  Holmes intentionally confronts us with the question, "Does it matter that the artist is or is not of the culture I see represented?"

This exhibition was the first in CAAM's series entitled, "In the Hands of African American Collectors." Whether to dispel stereotypes and bring into view the broad range of black interests or simply to showcase the diverse and meaningful collections of art and artifacts, crafts and photography in the hands of African Americans, this series is dedicated to applauding collectors for the important role they serve as invaluable, cultural caretakers.

sampling of works presented