William Edmondson (American, 1874–1951), Ram, 1938–42, limestone, the John R. Van Derlip Fund, 2013.56

Ghenete Zelleke & Jennifer Marshall: The Carved Legacy of William Edmondson

William Edmondson was the first African American artist to have a solo exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, in 1937. A self-taught artist from Tennessee, he felt a calling from God to carve stone sculptures. The subjects of his work were often biblical, inspired by his Christian faith and by the burial art in black cemeteries. He especially favored Mary and Martha, the crucified Christ, angels, and various animals.

Jennifer Marshall, associate professor of art history and director of undergraduate studies at the University of Minnesota, will explore Edmondson’s life and work, to be followed by a conversation with Ghenete Zelleke, James Ford Bell Curator of Decorative Arts and Sculpture at Mia.

Presented by the Decorative Arts Affinity Group.

$10, $5 My Mia members; free to members of the Decorative Arts and African Art Affinity Groups. Reserve tickets by calling 612.870.6323, or click here.

_{William Edmondson (American, 1874–1951), Ram, 1938–42, limestone, the John R. Van Derlip Fund, 2013.56}