Chattanooga, September 16, 2025
News Summary
The Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga will host the ‘Silver Linings’ exhibition showcasing over 40 works by Black artists. The opening celebration includes cultural performances and an in-gallery talk by the museum’s Executive Director. The exhibition features five themes and aims to highlight the contributions of Black artists to American art. Complementary programs will also be available during its run.
Chattanooga Welcomes Silver Linings Exhibition Celebrating Black Artists
The Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga is set to open the much-anticipated exhibition, “Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection,” on Friday, September 19, 2025. This exhibition marks its final stop and will feature over 40 remarkable works of art that highlight the profound influence of Black artists on the evolution of American art.
The opening celebration for the exhibition will take place the evening before, on Thursday, September 18, at 6:00 p.m., featuring a cultural performance dedicated to celebrating Black heritage. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage in an in-gallery talk led by Dr. Liz Andrews, Executive Director of the Spelman College Museum of Fine Art.
Exhibition Highlights
“Silver Linings” is organized around five distinct themes:
- Spiral Group: A Black artists collective from New York that was active in the 1960s.
- Abstraction
- Early Figuration
- Contemporary Photography
- Contemporary Figuration
The exhibition is designed to showcase the essential contributions of Black artists to American culture and art throughout history. Visitors to the exhibition can expect to see a range of techniques and themes reflective of the diverse experiences within the Black community.
Support and Background
The presentation of “Silver Linings” at the Hunter Museum is supported by Art Bridges, which aims to enhance accessibility and appreciation of art across the United States. The exhibition will remain on view until January 12, 2026.
The Spelman College Museum of Fine Art in Atlanta, Georgia, organized this exhibition. Founded in 1996, the museum is dedicated to uplifting art created by and about women of the African diaspora. Spelman College has a rich history in art, starting its collection in 1899, the same year the college was established.
Complementary Programs
In addition to the main exhibition, a variety of complementary programs will be offered throughout its run. Visitors can look forward to:
- Live performances by local creatives
- Family-oriented events
- Hands-on workshops
- Additional gallery talks
The exhibition is curated by Liz Andrews and Karen Comer Lowe, with initial contributions from Anne Collins Smith. For more information on the exhibition and programming, visitors are encouraged to check the Hunter Museum’s website.
Conclusion
As it rolls out its programming, the Hunter Museum of American Art is excited to give the community the chance to engage with the significant contributions of Black artists in shaping American art. The “Silver Linings” exhibition promises to be a profound exploration of cultural heritage, creativity, and artistic expression.
FAQs
When does the exhibition open?
The exhibition opens on September 19, 2025.
What themes are featured in the “Silver Linings” exhibition?
The exhibition features five themes: Spiral Group, Abstraction, Early Figuration, Contemporary Photography, and Contemporary Figuration.
How long will the exhibition be available for viewing?
The exhibition will be on view until January 12, 2026.
Are there any special events planned for the opening?
Yes, there will be an opening celebration on September 18, 2025, which includes cultural performances and an in-gallery talk.
Key Features of the Silver Linings Exhibition
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Opening Date | September 19, 2025 |
| Opening Celebration | September 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM |
| Themes | Spiral Group, Abstraction, Early Figuration, Contemporary Photography, Contemporary Figuration |
| Display Until | January 12, 2026 |
| Complementary Programs | Live performances, family events, workshops, gallery talks |
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Additional Resources
- Chattanooga Pulse: Silver Linings Exhibition
- Times Free Press: Hargis Redefined Success
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Black Artists in American Art

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