Monday, January 5, 2026
By Ryan Allen
The countdown has begun – only six days left to catch the National Gallery of Art’s impressive “Photography and the Black Arts Movement, 1955-1985” exhibition. The show features approximately 150 works by more than 100 artists, anchored by a stellar selection of photographs alongside graphic and mixed media pieces. Organized thematically, the exhibition traces how photography functioned as both an artistic and political tool during the Black Arts Movement. This cultural movement flourished in the 1960s-70s, using art rooted in Black identity and political self-determination as a tool for empowerment and social change. Don’t miss this opportunity for a strong start to your 2026 cultural calendar!
And as a last-minute bonus, featured photographer Ming Smith will be present for an in-person Artist Talk this coming Sunday (aka closing day), 12 to 1pm in the East Building Auditorium.