A haven for art. That’s Trevor Arnett Hall. It stands proudly on the Clark Atlanta University campus. This isn’t just any building. It’s a treasure chest. It holds a significant collection of African American art.
Trevor Arnett Hall houses the Clark Atlanta University Art Museum. This museum boasts one of the largest and most historically significant collections of art by African Americans. Its story begins long ago. It reflects the struggles and triumphs of a people.
The collection started to grow in 1942. This was a time of segregation. African American artists faced exclusion from mainstream institutions. Hale Woodruff a visionary professor at Atlanta University changed all that. He began the Exhibition of Paintings Prints and Sculptures by Negro Artists of America. The exhibition ran for 29 years. Over 900 Black artists showcased their talent. Many were unknown at the time. They are now renowned figures in American art. Think Jacob Lawrence Romare Bearden Lois Mailou Jones. Their works are part of this incredible collection.
The museum in Trevor Arnett Hall wasn’t always here. In 1996 for the Atlanta Olympics the former library was renovated. It was transformed to meet museum standards. The galleries now display temporary exhibitions alongside the permanent collection.
Today Trevor Arnett Hall welcomes visitors from all backgrounds. They come to admire the art. They come to learn about history. They connect with the legacy of these talented artists. It is a living testament to the power of art and perseverance. The spirit of Hale Woodruff lives on in Trevor Arnett Hall. The museum continues to promote research and scholarship. It focuses on the development of African American artists. It’s a place where art transcends time and inspires future generations.
Come explore the legacy within Trevor Arnett Hall. Discover the remarkable stories behind the artwork. Experience the vibrant history that these walls hold. It’s a journey you won’t forget.