February is Black History Month, a time dedicated to honor the triumphs and struggles of African Americans throughout U.S. History. This year, we celebrate African Americans and the Arts and how Black artists have used art to preserve history and empowerment.
Black artists continue to serve as change makers in our society through their work and this month we are excited to share how that is represented in our town. Join us in celebrating art and its relationship with empowerment and justice.
Read on for ideas to expand your knowledge of Black History and art in Bentonville during February and throughout the whole year:
Discover Artwork by Black Artists
Art is on every corner in this city. From sculptures, murals, paintings, and more, Bentonville is covered. Here’s a list of just a few of the not-to-miss artworks by African Americans on view around Bentonville.
Nina Chanel Abney, Mull it Over, 2020
SE 5th St. & Razorback Greenway
Kehinde Wiley, Saint George and the Dragon, 2015
Lady Slipper
Yinka Shonibar, Wind Sculpture (SG) VII, 2022
The Momentary
Sanford Biggers, Oracle, 2021
Hand Cut Hollow Trail
Chakaia Booker, Déjà Vu, 2016
Osage Park
Chakaia Booker, Brick House, 2015
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art North Forest Trail
Alongside our public art selection, Bentonville museums have a wide selection of African American art on view. Here’s a selection of artwork from Crystal Bridges Collection: Art by Black Artists, Made before 1960.
Fred Eversley, Big Red Lens, 1985
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Ronald Jackson, In a Day, She Became the Master of Her House, 2019
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Kerry James Marshall, Our Town, 1995
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Amy Sherald, Precious jewels by the sea, 2019
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Events
Exploring Bentonville this February? Discover the Black History Month celebrations and events that will enrich your understanding of African American heritage. Plan your trip around these events:
Pick up a book
From area bookshops to public libraries, you’ve got options to find new reading material exploring Black History and celebrating Black authors:
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Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Library end cap