Tradition Redefined:
The Larry and Brenda Thompson Collection of African American Art

Larry and Brenda Thompson have amassed a remarkable collection of art by African Americans from around the nation.  The strength of the Thompson’s collecting process is their considered attention to artists who have typically not been recognized in the traditional narratives of African American art.  In addition to the acknowledged “masters,” the Thompsons have collected works by artists who have been labeled “emerging,” “unknown,” “outsider,” “eccentric,” “vernacular,” “regional” and more.  The result is a collection that redefines the landscape of American art, offering a more in-depth, inclusive understanding of African American artists and their aesthetic and social concerns.  The Thompsons have not only identified and supported artists inside and outside of the canon, but they have also cultivated meaningful relationships with a variety of artists and their families that have lasted decades.  The fruits of these relationships are highlighted in the exhibition Tradition Redefined: The Larry and Brenda Thompson Collection of African American Art.

Vertis Hayes Juke Joint 1946 Oil on canvas	Vivian E. Browne Benin Series 1960 Ink and charcoal on paper	Evangeline Juliette Montgomery Red and Green Circles 2007 Acrylic on canvas
Ernest Chrichlow Ronnie 1941 Oil on board	William T. Williams Delta Blues 1996 Acrylic and ink on paper	Donald Locke Pomona Blue 1980 cast in 2002 Bronze
Camille Billops Franco and Tessa 1989-1997 Spectrcolor pencil on paper	Henry O. Tanner Still Life with Apples 1890s Oil on canvas	Joseph Delaney Woman in Striped Dress 1964 Oil on board

© ALL IMAGES ARE COPYRIGHTED BY THE ARTISTS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

Installation Views

Opening Reception Images

Larry and Brenda Thompson with President Mote

Executive Director of the David C. Driskell Center Dr. Robert E. Steele and Larry Thompson

Brenda Thompson speaking at the opening reception.