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Honoring Black Artists in TAM's collection

Honoring Black Artists in TAM's collection

Of the more than 5000 works within TAM’s collection, only 99 were created by Black artists. It is imperative we as an institution recognize and understand the influence our physical space has on the community in which we are situated. The relative lack of Black artists in collections is a systemic inequality that is present in museums nationally. Museums cannot have an accurate, full picture of art history if there is an absence of Black art.

TAM’s permanent collection mostly relies on gifts from collectors and the museum has only recently had funds to purchase works. TAM has committed this money for acquisitions that ensure the collection expands to fully reflect the diverse voices of our region and begin to correct inequities.

This portfolio includes the works by Black artists currently in TAM's collection.

Collection Highlights
Conjunction
Romare Bearden
1979
Lonnie Holley's Freedom
Mary Lee Bendolph
2005
Blue Rondo
Weldon Butler
1985