Birmingham Unites Art and Football with Exciting Exhibition Opening Celebration

Birmingham Celebrates Art and Football with Special Exhibition Opening

In a vibrant blend of culture and sports, Birmingham is gearing up for a unique event that intertwines the worlds of art and football. The Birmingham Museum of Art (BMA) will kick off its special Exhibition Opening Celebration on October 20, a date eagerly awaited by both art lovers and community members alike as it coincides with the Magic City Classic Week.

A Homecoming for Notable Artists

This celebration marks the beginning of two noteworthy exhibitions: Hayward Oubre: Structural Integrity and Determined to Be: The Sculpture of John Rhoden. Both artists have strong ties to Alabama’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), and the BMA staff see this opening as an artistic homecoming deserving of the same excitement usually reserved for football. As Katelyn D. Crawford, the William Cary Hulsey Curator of American Art at the BMA, puts it, “For two artists with deep HBCU legacies, it felt fitting to open their exhibitions during Magic City Classic Week.”

Celebrate with Activities for All

The opening celebration promises not only an introduction to the exhibitions but also a community-focused experience. Families can enjoy food trucks, face painting, and live entertainment. Events will include a warm welcome from the Lawson State Cheer Squad, performances by the Miles College Choir, and an exhilarating drumline experience. This lively atmosphere is expected to engage attendees of all ages, making it a true community event.

Exploring Hayward Oubre’s Impact

Hayward Oubre: Structural Integrity opened to the public on October 4 and will run through February 2, 2025. The exhibition features a collection of 52 sculptures, paintings, and prints, showcasing how Oubre (1916-2006) made significant contributions to American art while working in the South. Born in New Orleans, Oubre was the first student to earn a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Dillard University, Louisiana’s oldest HBCU. His journey continued as he served in World War II and later earned a master’s degree in fine arts in 1948.

Crawford shared how the exhibition was inspired by the museum’s acquisition of Oubre’s sculpture, Bongo Drummer, emphasizing the need to highlight his legacy. Oubre was known for using materials like wire coat hangers to create modernist pieces that explored diverse styles and topics, including his experiences, art history, and social issues. Notably, he was also a dedicated educator, serving as the first chair of the art department at Alabama State University and nurturing a community of Black artists across the South.

John Rhoden’s Artistic Journey

The second exhibition, Determined to Be: The Sculpture of John Rhoden, opens on October 19 and runs until April 20, 2025. Rhoden, who was born and raised in Birmingham, is celebrated for his unique sculptural style and contributions to art. The BMA proudly presents Rhoden’s first solo museum exhibition back in 1985, and attention is now drawn to his impressive body of work, which includes around fifty sculptures made from bronze, wood, and stone.

Rhoden’s accolades include being the first Black visual artist fellow at the American Academy of Rome, as well as significant exhibitions at major art institutions, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. His work captures the essence of various forms and influences, making it truly ahead of its time. The museum will keep 18 pieces from this exhibition in its permanent collection, ensuring that Rhoden’s legacy continues to resonate within his hometown.

Event Details

Mark your calendars for the Exhibition Opening Celebration at the Birmingham Museum of Art, located at 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35203. The festivities will take place on Sunday, October 20, from 1 to 5 p.m. This event is free and open to the public, providing an excellent opportunity for the community to come together, experience art, and celebrate the football spirit of Birmingham.