Our yearlong celebration of American art continues with a Spotlight presentation of Romare Bearden's Odysseus Series, a striking reimagining of Homer's classic epic in watercolor.
Though celebrated primarily for his innovative collage work, Romare Bearden possessed exceptional talent as both painter and draftsman. His Odysseus Series is a unique suite of 20 watercolors that depict The Odyssey with meticulous attention to compositional structure, color, and narrative.
A passionate scholar of human civilization and literary tradition, Bearden frequently drew upon classical texts, weaving complex symbolism throughout his compositions. His dynamic portrayals of Black American life, from contemporary Harlem streetscapes to remembered Southern landscapes, emphasized ritual as a fundamental thread connecting all humanity, making it one of his most enduring themes. By depicting the entire cast in the Odysseus Series as Black figures, Bearden illuminates enduring connections between ancient quests for belonging and the modern African American experience.
On view throughout February, the presentation aligns with Black History Month and is part of our program marking the galley's 25th anniversary and the 250th birthday of the United States.
