The works of sculptor Richmond Barthé (1901-1989), a leading figure in New York City’s Harlem Renaissance, are highlighted from Jan. 20 to May 4 at the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum on the Saginaw Valley State University campus.
“His masterful sculptures celebrated Black identity,” an announcement states, “portraying the beauty, dignity and humanity of African American subjects at a time when their representation was scarce in the art world. Barthé’s works challenged social norms and stereotypes, offering a profound counter-narrative.”
More than 20 of the artist’s bronze creations depict dancers, workers, religious figures, and heroes like singer Josephine Baker and actor Paul Robeson.
An opening reception at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 1, will help launch Black History Month at SVSU. Reservations are open through Jan. 24. Call (964) 964-7125 or visit marshallfredericks.org.
