Black Women and Clay
@ Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art
2320 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Opening Saturday, September 20th, from 12PM - 4PM
On view through Sunday, November 16th
The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art presents Black Women and Clay (September 20 – November 16, 2025), a powerful exhibition addressing a critical gap in art world recognition where Black women artists represent less than 0.5% of museum acquisitions nationwide. This groundbreaking show celebrates seven remarkable Chicago-based ceramic artists, including works by Sheila Clay, Juarez Hawkins, and Malika Jackson, while honoring the transformative legacy of pioneers like Marva Lee Pitchford-Jolly, who founded the influential art collective “Sapphire and Crystals” in 1986.
The exhibition explores how these artists draw upon rich African ceramic traditions while confronting contemporary themes of identity, community, and social justice, creating authentic artistic expression that centers Black experiences. Building on Chicago’s rich tradition of community-based Black arts initiatives dating back to the 1940s, this exhibition continues the city’s legacy of supporting marginalized voices and challenging traditional art world hierarchies.
The opening reception takes place Saturday, September 20, from 12-4 p.m. We hope to see you then!
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Tags: Black Women and Clay, Chicago, Christine LaRue, Cristal Sabbagh, Francelia Herron Cotton, Juarez Hawkins, Kenya Moffett-Garner, Malika Jackson, Sheila Clay, Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, West Town
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