“Who’s Behind Black Art” Film & Discussion (Part 2 of 2)

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March 21, 2024
The film series Who’s Behind Black Art offers a close-up look at the experiences of five emerging young Black artists: Adrian Armstrong, Laurena Finéus, Jewel Ham, Tae Ham, and Mario Joyce.

Complementing the exhibition Multiplicity: Blackness in Contemporary American Collage, the series unfolds in four parts on two evenings: March 14 and March 21. The first two parts give viewers the opportunity to appreciate the people behind the remarkable works of art. Part three features a roundtable conversation with the artists and seasoned professionals. Part four covers the exhibition opening for all five artists’ work at the World Trade Center in New York City.

Who’s Behind Black Art explores themes including the state of art in the era of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, and Breonna Taylor; Black women in the art world; social media; racism in the industry; and the preservation of Black art.

Program
Anita N. Bateman, associate curator of modern and contemporary art, introduces the guest speakers and moderates post-film panel discussions with them and director John Campbell. On March 14, the guests are artist Mario Joyce and contributor Paul Anthony Smith. On March 21, the guests are artist Adrian Armstrong, contributor Alteronce Gumby, and moderator Jason Woods (Flash Gordon Parks).

Plan Your Visit

• This event is included with Museum admission.
• The film screening and discussion take place in Brown Auditorium Theater on the lower level of the Law Building. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The exhibition is located on the upper level of the Law Building.
• Parking Information | Museum Hours | MFAH Campus Map

About the Director
John Campbell’s career started in the music industry working with artists including Whitney Houston, Elton John, and George Michael. He then moved to the financial industry, ending as Chief of Staff, Global Digital Strategy at Citigroup. Next he became founder of JCINTIME, LLC—a creative management and production company. Among Campbell’s most-notable projects are the docuseries Who’s Behind Black Art; the documentary feature COLOR; and the film 5150, co-executive produced with actor David Oyelowo. Other projects include The Sleeping Negro; A Boy, A Girl, A Dream; Destined; and The Infamous Future.