"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
This month marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of a true pioneer, Romare Bearden – a 20th century African-American artist.
Revered around the world as the "father of collage," few know that Bearden actually hailed from right here in Charlotte.
Over the next 3 months, the Queen City welcomes home one of its own in a celebration of his works.
Through early January, the Mint Museum will host Romare Bearden: Southern Recollections, and it will include nearly 100 works of art.
The exhibition and subsequent national tour underscore Bearden's artistic mastery of collage.
It also shows his development of narrative and thematic explorations of his native South, and how his roots here served as a source of inspiration throughout his career.
In late October, the Charlotte Symphony will host a concert in Bearden's honor.
The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is presenting a series of in-school artist residencies at several CMS middle schools through the end of the school year.
This is a golden opportunity for each of us in the community to get up close and personal with an artistic icon and at the same time, honor the legacy of a native son.
For more information and a schedule of area events, please visit the WEB EXTRAS link on wbtv dot com.
Tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
