Family, Community, Belonging: Works from the Collection

Featuring a variety of historic, modern, and contemporary works, this collection-based exhibition explores evolving concepts of family and community in relation to themes of belonging, diversity, and inclusion. The works range from nineteenth-century portraits of European American mothers with children to Elizabeth Catlett’s powerful portrayal of an African American grandmother and grandson, as well as Caren King Choi’s recent monumental depiction of her Asian American nieces and nephews. Also included are works by artists from several Indigenous communities, including Melanie Yazzie (Diné) and Mario Martinez (Pascua Yaqui).

The Museum’s collection reflects the diversity of American culture and common experiences shared across lines of race, gender, ethnicity, religion, and region.

The exhibition is curated by Gail Stavitsky, Ph.D, Chief Curator, Montclair Art Museum.