Jesse James
As you know by now, The Appleton Museum of Art is a cultural center with the aim to heighten the quality of life for the people of #OurOcala, Central Florida, and beyond. The museum recently opened its latest exhibition. One that comes with an extraordinary collection of art and a beautiful back story.
“Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art” is an exhibition of sixty-two works that were collected over the space of 35 years. The collection comes from Kerry, a retired mailman, and Betty, a former television news producer, who spent a better portion of their life collecting incredible works of art. This important and impressive collection includes works from artists such as Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Ernest T. Crichlow, and Sam Gilliam. Elsewhere you can experience pieces from Jacob Lawrence, Gordon Parks, and Alma Thomas.
Instead of searching for well-known artists. Kerry and Betty focused on “the importance of gathering and preserving a spectrum of approaches to the black image in order to console the psyche and contribute to a more authentic articulation of the self.” The collection spans different mediums and subjects while varying styles from African American artists.
“Memories & Inspiration” At The Appleton
The collection embraces a wide range of training, experience, and expression, providing a diverse viewing experience. Each piece has its own cultural and historical narrative, creating something beautiful, powerful, and thought-provoking. “Memories and Inspiration” features an array of exceptional artwork and an incredible story about the collectors that shouldn’t be missed.
Check out the exhibition until March 28, 2021, at The Appleton’s Edith-Marie Gallery. While you’re at it, be sure to check out The Appleton’s initiative new app. Here you can find out much more about the collection, the Davises back story, and the artists. The Appleton will also be holding an online talk with Kerry Davis and Kevin Sipp. Look for this on Sunday, February 28, at 2 p.m. via Zoom. Find out more about that here. Trust us; you don’t want to miss out on this opportunity! Keep it locked with The Culture Curators for more art in #OurOcala!
Photos via Dave Miller of The Culture Curators
