Featuring more than 130 artworks and documents from 24 countries in Africa, the Americas, the Caribbean, and Europe, Afro-Atlantic Histories will be on view at the National Gallery of Art this spring. Using a variety of artworks, the exhibition explores the history, cultural formation, and legacy of the African diaspora beginning in the 17th century to modern times. A collaboration of the National Gallery of Art, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and Museu de Arte de São Paulo, the upcoming leg of the Afro-Atlantic Histories’ tour builds upon the Portuguese term historias. According to NGA, historias “can encompass both fictional and nonfictional narratives of cultural, economic, personal, or political character. The term is plural, diverse, and inclusive, presenting viewpoints that have been marginalized or forgotten.” Using the term in its plural state highlights the diversity and inclusivity of marginalized voices throughout the diaspora. Curated in six thematic sections—including Maps and Margins, Enslavement and Emancipation, Rites and Rhythms, Portraits, and Resistances and Activism—Afro-Atlantic Histories will exhibit extensive works depicting the beginnings of the slave trade to the continued fight for freedoms. April 10 to July 17 at National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. Free.
For more museum and gallery recommendations check out our calendar.