Chattanooga, September 20, 2025
News Summary
The Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga showcases ‘Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection’, featuring over 40 Black artists. Open through January 12, 2026, the exhibition highlights themes like abstraction and contemporary photography. Notable artworks include ‘Vibes Penetrated’ by Betty Blayton. Complementary programs for the community are also available for engagement, including workshops and performances.
Chattanooga Hosts ‘Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection’ Exhibition
The Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga is currently showcasing the exhibition “Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection”. This exhibition features an impressive array of works from over 40 Black artists, arranged into five distinct themes: Spiral Group, abstraction, early figuration, contemporary photography, and contemporary figuration. The exhibition is open to the public and will remain on view through January 12, 2026.
Among the notable artworks featured is “Vibes Penetrated” by artist Betty Blayton, created in 1983. The exhibition also includes pieces from renowned artists such as Romare Bearden, famous for his storytelling collages, Elizabeth Catlett, who highlights the strength of Black women in her sculptures and prints, and Henry Ossawa Tanner, who is recognized for breaking racial barriers in his painting. Other significant artists featured in the exhibition include Sam Gilliam, Lorna Simpson, and Carrie Mae Weems.
The exhibition has been organized by the Spelman College Museum of Fine Art in Atlanta and is curated by Liz Andrews and Karen Comer Lowe. The Hunter Museum expresses its gratitude to Art Bridges for supporting this exhibition.
Complementary Programs and Events
In addition to the artwork, the Hunter Museum is offering a series of complementary programs including live performances, family events, hands-on workshops, and gallery talks throughout the duration of the exhibition. The museum is located at 10 Bluff View in Chattanooga, and general admission for non-member adults is $20.
In celebration of the exhibition and the HBCU homecoming season, a special “Homecoming” event will be held this month for Chattanooga’s Black professionals. This event will include an in-gallery discussion, performances, networking opportunities, and other activities, culminating in an after-hours gathering.
Additionally, an artist-led “Create + Sip” session will focus on painting mannequin torsos inspired by the exhibition. This workshop is offered free of charge for adults and teens over 16 years old.
Exhibition Background
Before making its final stop in Chattanooga, the “Silver Linings” exhibition traveled across the country, showcasing the rich contributions of Black artists to American art. Featured artists also include Emma Amos, Benny Andrews, Firelei Báez, Herman “Kofi” Bailey, Beverly Buchanan, Selma Burke, Floyd Coleman, Renee Cox, Myra Greene, Glenn Ligon, Howardena Pindell, Lucille Malkia Roberts, Deborah Roberts, Nellie Mae Rowe, Lina Iris Viktor, Faith Ringgold, and Hale Woodruff.
This exhibition not only honors the rich artistic heritage of Black creators but also provides an engaging space for community involvement and appreciation of diverse artistic expressions.
FAQ Section
What is the duration of the exhibition ‘Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection’?
The exhibition will be on view through January 12, 2026.
The exhibition will be on view through January 12, 2026.
Where is the Hunter Museum located?
The Hunter Museum is located at 10 Bluff View in Chattanooga.
The Hunter Museum is located at 10 Bluff View in Chattanooga.
What is the admission cost for non-member adults to the museum?
Admission to the museum is $20 for non-member adults.
Admission to the museum is $20 for non-member adults.
What special events are tied to the exhibition?
Special events include a “Homecoming” celebration for Black professionals and an artist-led “Create + Sip” session among other activities.
Special events include a “Homecoming” celebration for Black professionals and an artist-led “Create + Sip” session among other activities.
Key Features of the Exhibition
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exhibition Title | Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection |
| Opening Date | Now Open |
| Closing Date | January 12, 2026 |
| Number of Featured Artists | Over 40 |
| Thematic Arrangements | Spiral Group, Abstraction, Early Figuration, Contemporary Photography, Contemporary Figuration |
| Location | Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff View, Chattanooga |
| General Admission | $20 for non-member adults |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Cleveland Banner: Hunter Museum Silver Linings Exhibition
- Wikipedia: Hunter Museum of American Art
- Chattanooga Pulse: Black Professionals Event
- Google Search: Chattanooga events September 2025
- Times Free Press: Things to Do in Chattanooga
- Google Scholar: Black art exhibitions
- Nooga Today: Bicycle Transit System
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American art history
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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