An Inspiring Conversation: A Program in Conjunction with Alicia Henry + Fahamu Pecou
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Huntsville Museum of Art will feature “An Inspiring Conversation“ on Thursday, February 13, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Presented by the HMA Black History Month Committee and sponsored by Sasha and Charlie Sealy, the discussion will be followed by a reception hosted by the Huntsville Museum of Art Guild. Held in conjunction with the Alicia Henry + Fahamu Pecou exhibition, the event is free for museum members and $5 for non-members after 5 p.m.
The panel will feature acclaimed artist Dr. Fahamu Pecou, esteemed art historian Dr. Cheryl Finley, and curator Michael J. Ewing. Dr. Bridget R. Cooks, an acclaimed scholar, author and curator, will moderate the discussion, offering an in-depth exploration of identity, artistic expression, and cultural narratives reflected in the exhibition.
Exhibition Overview
The Alicia Henry + Fahamu Pecou exhibition examines themes of identity and the Black experience in America. Alicia Henry, recognized for her intricate textile sculptures and mixed-media installations, explored deeply personal and historical themes. Dr. Fahamu Pecou, a multidisciplinary artist, utilizes painting, performance, and multimedia to reframe and expand perceptions of Black masculinity and culture.
The exhibition is on display through February 27, 2025.
Meet the Speakers
Dr. Fahamu Pecou
A leading interdisciplinary artist and scholar, Dr. Pecou integrates hip-hop, fine art, and popular culture in his work, challenging traditional portrayals of Black masculinity. His art is part of prestigious collections, including the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, the High Museum of Art, and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. He is also the founder and executive director of the African Diaspora Art Museum of Atlanta (ADAMA).
Dr. Cheryl Finley
An award-winning author and art historian, Dr. Finley is the Inaugural Director of the Atlanta University Center Art History and Curatorial Studies Collective and Distinguished Visiting Professor at Spelman College. Her work focuses on African diaspora visual culture, museums, and the global art economy.
Michael J. Ewing
Curator Michael J. Ewing holds a B.A. in Art and Psychology from Fisk University, where he studied under Alicia Henry. His work includes exhibitions in the U.S. and internationally, such as I Know Why a Caged Bird Blings (2015), featuring Fahamu Pecou. He currently serves as Associate Curator at the Frist Art Museum in Nashville.
Dr. Bridget R. Cooks
Dr. Cooks, a distinguished scholar and curator, specializes in American art, Black visual culture, and museum studies. She is Chancellor’s Fellow and Professor of African American Studies and Art History at the University of California, Irvine. Her book Exhibiting Blackness: African Americans and the American Art Museum (2011) earned the James A. Porter & David C. Driskell Book Award in African American Art History.
Perspectives on the Event
Bobby Bradley, co-chair of the Huntsville Museum of Art Black History Month Committee, shared her excitement: “I am thrilled about the Alicia Henry-Fahamu Pecou exhibition and the opportunity to engage with such exceptional guests. The artists’ works have been deeply inspiring, and I look forward to gaining further insight at the event.”
Moderator Dr. Bridget R. Cooks added: “It is a privilege to discuss the work of Alicia Henry and Fahamu Pecou. Their art and careers inspire audiences to imagine, create, and collect. I am delighted to join this conversation and celebrate their incredible contributions.”
Engage in an Evening of Insightful Discussion
“An Inspiring Conversation” presents an extraordinary opportunity to explore contemporary art and culture through the perspectives of leading artists, scholars, and curators. Attendees will gain a richer understanding of the creative processes and cultural impact of Alicia Henry + Fahamu Pecou.
For details, visit www.hsvmuseum.org
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About the Huntsville Museum of Art
The Huntsville Museum of Art is a non-profit municipal corporation established by the City of Huntsville, Alabama, and governed by a city-appointed Museum Board. The Museum seeks to foster understanding of the visual arts and appreciation of artistic achievement. In addition to its galleries and exhibitions, the Museum offers art classes for children and adults along with special programs, lectures, and musical presentations. Rental space is also available for weddings, meetings, and other events.