Carl Van Vechten Gallery

The Carl Van Vechten Gallery at Fisk University has a rich and storied history that spans several decades. Established in 1949, it was named in honor of Carl Van Vechten, a prominent American writer, and photographer who played a pivotal role in bringing attention to the importance of African American art and culture. The gallery quickly became a hub for showcasing the works of renowned African American artists, providing a platform for their voices to be heard and celebrated. Throughout the years, the Carl Van Vechten Gallery has hosted numerous groundbreaking exhibitions, from solo shows featuring luminaries such as Alicia Henry and Jacob Lawrence to group exhibitions that explore diverse themes in African American art. It has also served as an educational resource for Fisk University students, offering them valuable insights into the creative expressions and collective experiences of African Americans. Today, the gallery continues to serve as a vital space for fostering dialogue, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting artistic excellence within the Fisk University community and beyond.