The Carl Van Vechten Gallery was founded in 1949, a testament to the foresight and vision of Fisk University. It owes its name to Carl Van Vechten, an American writer and photographer known for his support of African American artists during the Harlem Renaissance.
Recognizing the need for a dedicated space to showcase the talents and contributions of African American artists, Fisk University established the gallery to serve as a platform for their work and to foster dialogue around the role of art in society.