Celebrate New Art Works in Forbes Library’s Collection

February 4, 2-3:30 PM View more details here.

The public is invited to a reception spotlighting the new art works by local and regional BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) artists which we have acquired in the last two years.

We will be unveiling an original and vibrant watercolor of Sojourner Truth by the great Richard Yarde. Richard Yarde originally donated the painting to the Sojourner Truth Memorial Statue Committee to raise funds for the Sojourner Truth Scholarship Fund. The Committee has generously donated the painting to Forbes Library so that it will be available to the community. Carlie Tartakov will say a few words on behalf of the Committee at the event.

In 2021, Forbes Library received a $10,000 anonymous donation with the express intent of supporting the library in its desire to diversify its permanent art collection. The Trustees of Forbes Library then matched the gift and appointed a committee to identify potential artists and recommend works of art to acquire for the permanent collection. Committee members reached out to the arts community in western Mass., interviewed experts, viewed a wide range of images, and identified 10 pieces to purchase. They include paintings, drawings, photographs, and digital art by Ryan Murray, Mike Curato, Grace Lin, Priya N. Green, Alex Callender, Anthony Melting Tallow, and Julius Lester.

Many of the contemporary artists will attend the reception. We are grateful also to R. Michelson Galleries, Big Red Frame, Robert Floyd Photo Gallery, and everyone who contributed time and knowledge to our research.

The community is invited to enjoy refreshments in the Reading Room and a self-guided tour of new art works throughout the building.