Artists Archives of the Western Reserve

Amalia Amaki, Who Is It #11, Mixed media

Supporting local art starts with supporting local artists—all of them. Regardless of their level of critical acclaim or time spent in the professional art world, for artists to flourish they need spaces and exhibitions, which allow them to experiment, cultivate a sense of community, and yes—have their work actually seen.

The Artists Archives of the Western Reserve’s (AAWR) Annual Members Exhibition was created to do just that. In addition to the 86 artists archived in the museum’s permanent collection, the AAWR is comprised of hundreds of regional member artists who form the backbone of the organization.

Opening April 8, the exhibition accepts one piece from each active member and displays them in an energetic salon style. Now in its seventh year, the show has become so popular that entries are limited to 24 inches to conserve gallery space. In 2020, Mindy Tousley and Exhibition Committee Chair John A. Sargent III installed over 100 works, creating thoughtful groupings which compared subject matter, contrasted media, and inspired dialogue among visitors. Ranging from painting to photography, ceramics to textiles, and mixed media installations, each piece served as a unique snapshot of life in Northeast Ohio. To learn more about how to become a member and participate in the show, please visit artistsarchives.org.

This March will also bring two virtual programs highlighting the important role of women artists on the regional and national stages. On Wednesday, March 10, the Archives is honored to present Four African American Women Artists You Should Know with renowned art historian, author, and artist Amalia Amaki. Beginning with Harlem Renaissance superstar Augusta Savage, Amaki will honor four African American women artists who served as the cornerstones of their eras, creating meaningful, personal work, and providing crucial support to the development of contemporary art. Other featured artists include Nancy Elizabeth Prophet, Norma Morgan, and multimedia artist Camille Billops.

On Wednesday, March 24, the Archives will host Women of the Archives: Oral History Premier and Artists Discussion in partnership with Judson Manor. The program, which accompanies a satellite exhibition of the same name, will include the Oral Histories premiere of Archived Artists Elaine Albers Cohen, Gloria Plevin, and Judy Takács and a moderated conversation with exhibiting artists. Both programs are free and open to public on Zoom. To attend, please register on artistsarchives.org.

 

FOUR AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN ARTISTS YOU SHOULD KNOW | WITH AMALIA AMAKI, 7-8PM, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10 ON ZOOM

WOMEN OF THE ARCHIVES: ORAL HISTORY PREMIER & ARTISTS DISCUSSION | 4-5PM, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24 ON ZOOM

ANNUAL MEMBERS EXHIBITION | APRIL 8-MAY 29