The Mansion at Strathmore Presents Art Flow(s): Perspectives from the African Diaspora
From the art collections of Margo Thomas, Yonette Thomas, and Deborah Smith; curated by Zoma Wallace
The Mansion at Strathmore proudly announces the free exhibition Art Flow(s): Perspectives from the African Diaspora, opening on Tuesday, September 17. Running through November 7, Art Flow(s) brings together select pieces from the personal collections of three esteemed members of the Strathmore community—Dr. Deborah Smith, Dr. Yonette Thomas, and Dr. Margo Thomas. Collectively known as the Three Sisters, the longtime friends have spent decades gathering diverse visual art, sculpture, and ephemera from nearly every continent. With Art Flow(s), they aim to inspire contemplation on the value and meaning of art in the lives of people from all walks of life, encouraging a broader appreciation for art collecting.
“We may not be artists, but we cannot and will not live without art,” says Smith.
The Report Card by Merlene Ellis
Curated by Zoma Wallace, Art Flow(s) aligns with Strathmore’s mission to serve as “a bridge to a more conscious, connected, arts-infused world,” highlighting how culture transcends borders, seas, art forms, and generations. Though globally minded and universally relevant, the exhibition presents a range of expressions, perspectives, and experiences specific to peoples of the African Diaspora. The theme of “flow” transcends and connects the individual narratives in the exhibition’s artworks, while also aiming to unify a diverse audience.
The Mansion at Strathmore will host an opening reception for Art Flow(s) on Thursday, September 19, at 6 pm. Additional free interdisciplinary programs connecting the exhibition’s themes with dance, music, science, and literature will create a richly layered experience for attendees.
- Art Heals and Forgives
Tuesday, October 8, at 7pm
Dr. Yonette Thomas moderates a panel discussion with global thought leader Dr. Wizdom Powell and Dr. Shatiea Blount, a licensed clinical social worker and prevention scientist, on the power of art as a healing force. The local dance company Raediant Movement will perform Erica Rae Smith’s choreography embodying self-reflection. - Art at Home and Life Around the World
Wednesday, October 16, at 7pm
The Three Sisters share their personal journeys with art and explore how to make art collecting more accessible in a conversation moderated by artist Carolyn Goodridge, founder of Art Impact International/USA. - The Arts Are Uniting: A Family Day!
Saturday, October 26, 11am-2pm
The Mansion at Strathmore welcomes families to enjoy a variety of chats, mini-tours, live music, dance performances, and arts activities complementing the Art Flow(s) exhibition.
ABOUT STRATHMORE
Since 1983, Strathmore has been dedicated to enriching lives through transformative artistic experiences and meaningful community connections. With a legacy of spotlighting world-class talent and serving as a nurturing platform for rising artists, this leading cultural institution has become a cornerstone of the arts scene in the Washington, DC region and beyond.
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in the vibrant community of North Bethesda, Maryland, Strathmore is deeply committed to amplifying diverse voices and fostering creativity across all demographics. Our expansive campus, including the Music Center and the Mansion, hosts hundreds of accessible and multidimensional programs each year, inviting audiences to explore the arts from every angle.
Whether through captivating performances, thought-provoking discussions, or innovative educational initiatives, Strathmore remains steadfast in its mission to inspire, engage, and connect individuals through the power of the arts. Join us in experiencing the magic of Strathmore, where art is everywhere.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
PJ Feinstein (she/her)
Director of Communications
pfeinstein@strathmore.org