That’s the question Chicago artist Dalton Brown is asking us to answer with his new gallery exhibit housed at the Vivian G. Harsh Research Collection at Carter G. Woodson Regional Library.
Dalton grew up in Brooklyn’s Marcy projects. He moved to Chicago in the early 1970s to earn his BFA at the School of the Art Institute. From there he furthered his art education and became a member of the Black Arts Guild. He paints in a style called “rhythmism,” a riff on the same swirling patterns found in jazz music. The pieces exude a fluidity and movement that attracts and allows us to recognize the object’s intent. The exhibit is centered on a variety of works that Dalton feels best express his life up to the present.
When he was in the other day, I asked Dalton what artists inspired him. He quickly listed Jacob Lawrence, Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, and William Walker, the father of the Chicago mural movement. If you're looking for inspiration or just want to explore African American artists, here are a few titles to get you started:
A History of African-American Artists
Dalton’s work certainly matches his level of enthusiasm. Patrons who’ve wandered in and found themselves drawn to the exhibit have been sure to stop by to let us know how much they enjoy it. We hope you’ll take the time this summer to come in and view the exciting sculptures and paintings on display. The exhibit is up though March 2015. In the meantime, please let us know what artists inspire you. Have you ever used an artistic medium to explore your own life?
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