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Located on the southside of Chicago, The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center is one of my preferred museums. During my most recent trip, I had the opportunity to explore "The Art of Our Storytellers: Selections from the Johnson Publishing Company Collection." I was fortunate to visit on a day when admission was FREE!
John H. Johnson was the publisher of various magazines including Negro Digest (1942), Ebony Magazine (1942), Tan (1950), Jet (1951), Black World (1970), Black Stars (1971), and Ebony Jr. (1973). From the 1960s to the 2000s, Johnson Publishing Company was the biggest Black-owned corporation.
The artwork inside the building was curated to reflect empowerment, cultural pride, and the rich history of African Americans. It explored the struggles, triumphs, and everyday life of African American communities, but also celebrated African heritage and cultural contributions. There were depictions of historical figures, cultural symbols, and modern-day scenes that captured both the past and present struggles and achievements of African Americans. The company was known for supporting and promoting African American artists.
Upon entering the museum, I encountered the portrait of the iconic Johnson Publication Building situated at 820 S. Michigan Avenue. Designed by John Moutoussamy, the first Black architect to become a partner at a major Chicago firm, Dubin Black & Moutoussamy. The building is the only downtown Chicago high-rise designed by a Black architect. The oil painting on canvas was created by Susan Simmons.
Johnson Publishing Headquartered housed over 150+ pieces of artwork. The collection was donated by Desiree Rogers, CEO of Black Opal Beauty, LLC Rogers is the former Chair of Choose Chicago, chief executive officer of Johnson Publishing Company, and former special assistant and social secretary to President Obama.
Here are a few pieces of artwork that I particularly liked from the exhibit.
Seeking (1970) - Artist: Frank Hayden.
Dan-ngere Mask, Ivory Coast
Mother and Child (circa 1975) - Artist Nathan Wright
Convicted in 1968 on charges of conspiracy, attempted armed robbery of a Thillens check-cashing truck, and murder, Wright professed his innocence and received a sentence of 75 to 150 years in prison. While incarcerated, he discovered his talent for painting. In 1975, his artwork was showcased at the South Side Community Art Center, which also backed his defense fund, "Friends of Nathan Wright," established by Margaret Burroughs, the founder of the DuSable Museum. Wright was granted a temporary release from Pontiac Prison to attend the exhibition, which drew 700 guests.
Wright designed murals found all over the Pontiac Correctional Center, with each painting costing more than $1,000. Muhammad Ali was one of Wright's clients. Several of Wrights exhibits were showcased at universities including Northern Illinois University.
Wright designed murals all over the Pontiac Correctional Center, with each painting costing more than $1,000. Muhammad Ali was one of Wright's clients. Several of Wrights artwork were showcased at universities including Northern Illinois University.
Published in the Chicago Daily Defender, August 2, 1975. Photo: Bobby Sengstacke.
The Market Place (1972) - Artist Fritz Rock
Cousins (1972) - Artist Fritz Rock
The artwork was a powerful testament to African American culture, history, and identity. It reflects the role of Johnson Publishing as a cultural institution that not only showcased African American writers and photographers but also promoted the visual arts as a means of empowerment. The artwork was a visual manifestation of the African American struggle, resilience, and pride for anyone that had the opportunity to visit the building's art collection, rich history and iconic architecture.
Visit the exhibit at The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center!!!!!
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