Musicians, dancers, freedom advocates: for stained glass artist Samuel A. Hodge, these figures are beacons of hope and transformation in African-American history and culture.
Vivid, colorful, and luminescent, Stories in Stained Glass: The Art of Samuel A. Hodge, carves out an intimate respite surrounding the Museum’s rotunda area., providing extraordinary imagery and stories in a medium seldom used by African American artists.
The works of art included in this long-term installation focus on three areas of African American culture and history. “The Musicians” celebrates everyday people who have exercised their right to interpret the world as they see it through songs and instruments. “Dance and Dancers” on the other hand, honors those artists who use their bodies as the medium to express non-verbal emotions, themes, and ideas. And “Freedom Advocates” is dedicated to notable African Americans who fought and died to ensure liberty and dignity for themselves and their people.
Extraordinary Craftsmanship
Stained glass is an elegant, spiritual medium. This painstakingly-created installation represents the work of a master artist at the peak of his craft.
Stories of Courage
The figures celebrated in this installation all fought for liberation using the talents they born with. Some interpret the world as they see it through music. Others do so through movement, articulating emotions and ideas through dance. Others champion dignity and freedom through their physical presence, and through their voices, speaking truth to power fearlessly, selflessly. Stories in Stained Glass celebrates their collective efforts.
