#United States #Atlanta #David C. Driskell Prize #Alison Saar #High Museum of Art

Celebrating 20 Years of the David C. Driskell Prize

The High Museum of Art in Atlanta recently commemorated a significant milestone with its 20th annual David C. Driskell Prize Gala, an event that has become a hallmark celebration of African American art and art history. Recognized as the 'Met Gala of the South', this prestigious gathering pays tribute to the winners of the Driskell Prize, which is the first national award honoring contributions by Black artists and scholars.

The Honoree: Alison Saar

This year, the spotlight was on celebrated sculptor and mixed-media artist, Alison Saar, renowned for her works that delve deep into themes of identity, history, and the African diaspora. Gathered in a historic venue, over 350 guests, including artists, cultural influencers, and notable personalities, came together to celebrate Saar's contributions to the art world.

The evening's festivities commenced with a glamorous red carpet reception, followed by a seated dinner, during which guests enjoyed remarks from the High Museum's Director, Rand Suffolk. He took the opportunity to announce upcoming exhibitions, including a significant retrospective of Amy Sherald, a previous recipient of the Driskell Prize, scheduled for Spring 2026.

An Enchanting Evening

The gala's highlight was further amplified by an electrifying live performance from John Legend, an EGOT-winning musician. His performance set the stage for a vibrant after-party, which featured renowned DJ D-Nice and provided the perfect conclusion to a night dedicated to honoring art and culture.

Legacy and Impact of the Prize

Since its establishment in 2005, the David C. Driskell Prize has been pivotal in recognizing and uplifting African American visual art. It not only awards the winners with a substantial cash prize of $50,000 but also contributes to the ongoing acquisition of African American art within the museum’s collection. The High Museum has used the proceeds from this gala to support the David C. Driskell African American Art Acquisition funds, which currently boasts a balance of approximately $1.8 million.

Past recipients of this illustrious prize include notable names such as Naomi Beckwith, Ebony G. Patterson, and Mark Bradford, each contributing to the rich tapestry of African American art.

About David Driskell

The prize is named after David Driskell, a legendary artist and scholar whose work in African American art spans over four decades. Driskell was recognized for his contributions to art history and advocacy for African American artists before his passing in 2020. His legacy continues to inspire generations, as seen in the significant attention and celebration given to the Driskell Prize.

Conclusion

The 20th anniversary of the David C. Driskell Prize Gala not only honored a worthy recipient like Alison Saar but also served as a platform for fostering discussion around art, identity, and the African American experience. As the High Museum of Art continues to connect with diverse audiences through its collections and programs, events like the Driskell Prize Gala shine a light on the importance of representation in the arts.