Curator Spotlight: 30 Americans

This summer the museum is thrilled to present 30 Americans—an exhibition that celebrates American experiences from the perspective of 30 significant contemporary African American artists. Although the exhibition has traveled across the country since its debut in 2008, it is a unique experience in every community in which it is shown. This feat is made possible by the fact that 30 Americans is drawn from an incredible, and incredibly deep, private collection from which each venue selects the pieces it feels will resonate most deeply with its audiences.

Driven by a passion to collect what they consider “the most interesting art of our time,” Miami-based Don and Mera Rubell have been acquiring art by African American artists since the 1960s. Over the years, the Rubells have amassed a world-renowned collection that boasts work by many leading artists who are vital contributors to the complex dialogues that surround this country’s past and inform American art and life today. The Rubells are open about the fact that “this entire endeavor is limited by availability of great work, financial resources, and time.” Never static, their collection continues to grow as a result of studio visits, close looking, and lively conversations with artists, gallerists, and curators.

Among the artists with whom the Rubells established close relationships and whom the Nelson-Atkins is excited to feature in its galleries this summer are Kehinde Wiley, Kara Walker, Glenn Ligon, Kerry James Marshall, and Mickalene Thomas. 30 Americans opens June 1 and runs through August 25, 2019.