An exhibition showcasing portraits that African Americans in Central Virginia commissioned from the Holsinger Studio during the first decades of the twentieth century. The portraits expressed the individuality of the women and men who commissioned them and silently yet powerfully asserted the Black community’s claims to rights and equality.
Main Gallery, Harrison Institute and Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia
The portraits of local African Americans tell many stories—stories about family and faith, strength and resilience, beauty and grace. Visitors to the exhibition and related public events will discover a more complete picture of our history.
Holsinger Studio Family Celebration
Sunday, June 11 | 1:00-4:00 pm
Search the portraits by characterisitics including age, gender, groups, and occupations.
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While a significant number of the portraits are still unidentified, past events have helped to properly name many. These individuals’ bios are revealing.
READ THE ESSAYS
Visions of Progress is one facet of the ongoing work of the Holsinger Studio Portrait Project. We believe that seeing the lives of the African Americans who commissioned portraits from the Holsinger Studio in the context of local and national history is a vital contribution to understanding our shared past in Central Virginia. We are grateful that a generous grant from the Jefferson Trust will fund an extensive community engagement program.
THE HOLSINGER PROJECT | THE PROJECT TEAM
