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Celebrating the Legacy of David C. Driskell: Collector and Champion of Black Artists
David C. Driskell, “Pine and Moon“ (1971), oil on Masonite; Portland Museum of Art, Maine (© Estate of David C. Driskell, courtesy DC Moore Gallery, New York. Image courtesy Pillar Digital Imaging)
PORTLAND, Maine — David C. Driskell: Collector at the Portland Museum of Art pays homage to an exceptional artist and scholar whose lifelong dedication to collecting and championing Black artists has left an indelible mark on the art world. Driskell’s journey into art curation began in 1955, when he set aside a portion of his modest salary as an art professor to start his collection.
Throughout the 1960s and beyond, Driskell focused on promoting African-American artists, culminating in his groundbreaking 1976 exhibition Two Centuries of Black American Art that solidified his reputation as a leading authority in the field. His collection, now on display at the Portland Museum of Art, showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and themes that reflect Driskell’s keen eye for talent and innovation.
From the enchanting landscapes of Edward Mitchell Bannister to the vibrant cityscapes of Loïs Mailou Jones, Driskell’s collection showcases the rich tapestry of African-American artistry. Noteworthy sculptures by Elizabeth Catlett and Meta Vaux Warrick Fuller capture the essence of motherhood and human emotions with striking precision.
In addition to his role as a collector, Driskell’s own artistic contributions are on display, showcasing his evolution from social realism to abstract experimentation. His self-portrait from 1953 and the intricate “Night Vision” (2001) demonstrate his versatility and mastery of various artistic techniques.
Interwoven with Driskell’s artwork are powerful visual dialogues between pieces, such as the juxtaposition of Romare Bearden’s collage with Driskell’s own painting that evoke themes of identity and social commentary. The exhibition also highlights the influence of natural elements in art, as seen in Driskell’s “Frost and Ice, Maine” and Alma Thomas’s abstract watercolor.
As visitors navigate the exhibition, they are immersed in a visual narrative that transcends time and space, connecting past and present through art. Driskell’s enduring legacy extends beyond his collection, influencing a new generation of Black artists and scholars who continue to push boundaries and redefine the artistic canon.
One such testament to Driskell’s impact is the annual David C. Driskell Prize in African American Art and Art History awarded by Atlanta’s High Museum of Art, honoring individuals who uphold and expand the legacy of African-American art. Artists like Alison Saar, recipient of the 2025 Driskell Prize, acknowledge the profound impact of Driskell’s contributions to the Black arts community.
David C. Driskell: Collector continues to captivate audiences at the Portland Museum of Art, offering a glimpse into the visionary world of a true advocate for Black art. Curated by Shalini Le Gall, this exhibition stands as a testament to Driskell’s enduring legacy and his unwavering commitment to celebrating the richness and diversity of African-American artistic expression.
