Flint Institute of Arts to open Ways of Seeing: The Paul R. Jones Collection of American Art at The University of Alabama on January 29

(Flint, MI) The Flint Institute of Arts will open the exhibition, Ways of Seeing: The Paul R. Jones Collection of American Art at The University of Alabama on Sunday, January 29. This exhibition includes one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of 20th century African American art in the world, amassed over...

Flint Institute of Arts to open Ways of Seeing:  The Paul R. Jones Collection of American Art at The University of Alabama on January 29

(Flint, MI) The Flint Institute of Arts will open the exhibition, Ways of Seeing: The Paul R. Jones Collection of American Art at The University of Alabama on Sunday, January 29.

This exhibition includes one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of 20th century African American art in the world, amassed over decades by Paul Raymond Jones, who was described by Art & Antiques magazine as “one of the top art collectors in the country.” Jones donated the 2,000-plus piece collection to the College of Arts and Sciences at The University of Alabama in 2008. The collection includes art in a variety of media from more than 600 artists, including Emma Amos, Jack Whitten, Sam Gilliam, Howardena Pindell, Romare Bearden and Jacob Lawrence, all of whom are represented in this exhibition. These selections display the breadth and depth of the collection, showcasing artists working in a variety of materials and styles from the 1930s to the present day.

Attendees of the 16th Annual Community Gala on Saturday, January 28 will get a first look at the exhibition. The evening begins at 6 p.m. with a lecture by the curator of the The Paul R. Jones Collection of American Art, Emily Bibb, followed by the opening in the Hodge and Henry Galleries, live entertainment, heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Tickets are available in advance at flintarts.org or by calling 810.767.8390. They will also be available at the door.

On Sunday, January 29 visitors to the FIA can meet and chat with Emily Bibb in the Hodge & Henry Galleries from 2-3 p.m. Admission is free.