The University of South Carolina’s McKissick Museum will pay homage this year to the Civil Rights Movement through its annual art fundraiser. The museum is hosting an exhibit titled “If You Miss Me at the Back of the Bus,” now through Sept. 20.
The exhibit is on display on the third floor North Gallery of the museum.
“If You Miss Me at the Back of the Bus,” features work by South Carolina artists and artists with ties to the Palmetto State, whose creations illustrate how the 1960s Civil Rights Movement reshaped the Southern experience — the communities, culture and environment.
The theme for the exhibition was inspired by American folk singer Pete Seeger’s song “If You Miss Me at the Back of the Bus,” which became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement.
More than 60 pieces of art are on display by artists such as Susan Lenz, Laura Spong, Jean Groser and Tish Lowe.
“This fascinating collection of artworks from across the South embodies every facet of humanity’s struggle for basic rights,” says Edward Puchner, curator of exhibitons. “From artworks that address issues of social, artistic or personal freedom, to artists who pay tribute to history’s leaders and important champions of self-determination, equal opportunity and societal change, this exhibit, “If You Miss Me at the Back of the Bus,” acknowledges the true scope of the world’s search for equality and liberty for all.”
The fundraiser gala is set for Friday, Sept. 20, from 7 – 10 p.m. in McKissick Museum, when all of the artwork will be available for purchase.
Located on the university’s historic Horseshoe, McKissick Museum features both permanent exhibitions and rotating temporary exhibits and provides educational and cultural programming. Many of McKissick’s offerings are available through grants and private funding.
For more information contact McKissick Museum at 803-777-7251 or visit www.artsandsciences.sc.edu/mckissickmuseum.
