Chicago, IL—The DuSable Museum of African American History proposes to open a comprehensive exhibition highlighting the history and varied fine arts collections of African American museums throughout the country. “Buried Treasures: Art in African American Museums”, will showcase the natural relationship between fine art and interpretation of African American history and storytelling, and showcase the vast holdings of African American art within these institutions. The exhibition will be held in celebration of the AAAM 30th Anniversary conference held in Chicago from August 2008 – February 2009.

The exhibition will be divided into themes based on traditional forms of artistic periods. Thirty institutions will be invited to submit works that best represents their fine arts collection and is a signature work of the institution. The invitation will be open to include works on canvas, paper, sculpture, and mixed media. Once all submissions are in, a selection committee headed by the project’s curator will narrow the field to 90 works of art. A publication will be produce in conjunction with the exhibition.

The DuSable Museum of African-American History, located in the heart of downtown Chicago, is the oldest museum of its type in the country and is the only major independent institution in Chicago established to preserve and interpret the historical experiences and achievements of African Americans. Visit www.dusablemuseum.org for additional information.