Fall Black Artists Showcase at College of Lake County honors diversity
College of Lake County recently debuted a new virtual art exhibition since COVID-19 keeps visitors from walking the aisles of the Robert T. Wright Community Gallery of Art at the Grayslake campus.
The latest Black Artists Showcase features artwork from the college's permanent collection.
Each work was created by a Black artist including beloved CLC art faculty member Terry Dixon who recently passed away last year and retired CLC art professor and painter Reginald Coleman.
Other renowned artists include Dr. Margaret T. Burroughs, Mr. Imagination (aka Gregory Warmack) and Winfred Rembert.
"You'd never know the college owns these pieces featured in the Black Artists Showcase," said Ann Rintz, art gallery and permanent collection curator. "It's nice to shine a light on them. The pieces run the gamut - some were activists, some were not. All of these artists have a different take on what it's like to be a Black artist, both historic and current."
Over 800 works are part of the college's permanent art collection. Significant Illinois artists, as well as nationally and internationally recognized artists have their work featured since the gallery started in 1981. The collection reflects a diverse range in media and style and is displayed throughout the Grayslake, Lakeshore and Southlake campuses.
"It is not our place to speak on behalf of anyone," Rintz said. "Art stimulates its own contemplation. Because art has the unique ability to educate the public and inspire change, we hope to strengthen Black voices and make them better heard."
"I wish my art to speak not only for my people but for all humanity," Dr. Margaret T. Burroughs, a prominent Chicago artist, educator and institution-builder whose work is featured in the online exhibition said. "My subject matter is social commentary and seeks to improve the condition of life for all people."
More virtual and live arts events are planned for fall at the Robert T. Wright Community Gallery of Art.
Check out the artists showcase at www.clcillinois.edu.