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Celebrating African-American Contemporary Art: The Opening of "30 Americans" at the Corcoran Gallery

On September 27, 2011, the Corcoran Gallery of Art and College of Art + Design in Washington, D.C., hosted the much-anticipated opening reception of "30 Americans." This groundbreaking exhibition, originally displayed at the Rubell Family Foundation in Miami, Florida, presents a wide-ranging survey of works by influential African-American contemporary artists from the past three decades. The exhibition explores the complexities of racial, sexual, and historical identity in contemporary culture, providing a thought-provoking and challenging experience for visitors.


A Celebration of Identity

The Rubells and Some of the 30 Americans

Me enjoying the scene

"30 Americans" focuses on how each artist engages with the notion of black identity in America, navigating diverse issues such as civil rights, sexuality, popular culture, and media imagery. The exhibition delves into the individual journeys of these artists as they reckon with their place within American society. It sheds light on the ongoing struggle for equality and examines the profound influence of popular culture and historical narratives on their artistic expressions.


A Reimagined Presentation

The Corcoran Gallery of Art and College of Art + Design curated the exhibition with a

Collector and Co-Founder of Duke Ellington School of the Arts - Peggy Cooper, seated (my Homegirl from Mobile, Alabama and longtime DC resident) with Collector Dr. Darryl Atwell, left.

specific emphasis on artistic community and legacy. The presentation in Washington highlights the interconnectedness and relationships among artists from different generations, showcasing the ongoing dialogue and influence that shape their work. The collection of artworks on display showcases a diverse range of media, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs, and videos.



Artists and Their Expressions

Nick Cave's Sound Suit

"30 Americans" features a stellar lineup of artists, including prominent figures such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kerry James Marshall, Kara Walker, and Carrie Mae Weems, among others. Their works represent a rich tapestry of creativity, exploring various themes and artistic techniques. From the colorful and energetic Soundsuits by Nick Cave to the powerful photographs of Xaviera Simmons, each artwork invites viewers to engage with the complexities of African-American identity.


Programs and Events

Accompanying the exhibition, the Corcoran Gallery of Art organized a series of programs and events to enrich visitors' experiences. These offerings included the Meet the Artists series, providing unique opportunities to interact with the creators behind the artwork. Additionally, documentary film screenings and an evening with Don and Mera Rubell, the collectors whose works comprise "30 Americans," further enhanced the exhibition's educational and interactive components.

Me in front of Xaviera Simmons' (2007) One Day and Back Then


The opening reception of "30 Americans" at the Corcoran Gallery of Art marked a significant moment in the celebration of African-American contemporary art. Through its thought-provoking exploration of racial, sexual, and historical identity, the exhibition challenged conventional narratives and celebrated the diversity and resilience of African-American artists. As visitors engaged with the powerful works on display, they were offered a unique opportunity to connect with the complex and ever-evolving American experience.


To get a glimpse of the remarkable artworks showcased in "30 Americans," please visit this link. All photos in this post are by Kyle Samperton.

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