Memphis Honors the Legacy of Floyd E. Newsum Jr.

News Summary

The city of Memphis has launched a significant exhibition honoring the life and work of artist Floyd E. Newsum Jr., who passed away recently. This exhibition marks the first major showcase of his art, celebrating his contributions to community engagement, education, and social justice. Newsum’s vibrant artworks, shaped by his experiences during the Civil Rights Movement, continue to inspire future generations of artists. The event reflects on his profound impact on both the local and broader art communities, solidifying his legacy in Memphis.

Memphis Celebrates the Life and Work of Floyd E. Newsum Jr.

In the heart of Memphis, the vibrant legacy of the late artist Floyd E. Newsum Jr. is being honored with a magnificent exhibition that has officially opened its doors. This marks the first major showcase of Newsum’s works following his passing on August 14, 2024, at the age of 74. Born on November 3, 1950, in Memphis, Floyd was not just an artist; he was a true community pillar whose influence resonated far and wide.

The Roots of an Artist

Newsum’s story began amidst the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement. Growing up in Memphis, he was shaped by the vibrant activism of his father, one of the city’s first Black firefighters. From a tender age, he was engaged in significant social issues, joining meetings and marches that sought equality and justice, including the noteworthy Memphis Sanitation Strike.

By the time he reached third grade, Newsum had made a pivotal decision to pursue art, a passion early recognized by his mother when he was just four years old. He went on to earn a BFA from the Memphis College of Art in 1973 and later a MFA from the Tyler School of Art at Temple University in 1975.

A Legacy in Education

In 1976, Newsum began an impressive career in academia at the University of Houston-Downtown, where he dedicated nearly 50 years to educating aspiring artists. Throughout this time, he adopted various administrative roles and was honored with the UHD Scholarship/Creativity Award in 2003 for his immense contributions to the visual arts.

As a beloved professor, he taught numerous art courses, including drawing, painting, and printmaking, all while instilling a love for artistry and appreciation for culture in his students.

Community and Art: A Powerful Combination

Newsum didn’t merely stay within the confines of the classroom; he was a trailblazer in community engagement. He co-founded Project Row Houses in Houston back in 1993, an initiative aimed at revitalizing homes and making art accessible to local residents. This project focused on social art and community enrichment, creating cultural celebrations that connected art to everyday life.

Earlier this year, in a testament to his impactful legacy, Project Row Houses renamed its Summer Studios Program in his honor, providing a platform for emerging socially engaged artists.

Celebrated Works and Recognitions

Throughout his career, Newsum created public installations that can be found at various local landmarks, including the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and several Houston Metro Light Rail Stations. His art has been showcased in over 100 exhibitions at esteemed venues, such as the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston.

Newsum’s artistic vision often explored themes of personal history, social justice, and spirituality. His works were adorned with vibrant colors and symbols reflecting his journey and observations, where ladders often signified transitions and second chances.

A Lasting Impact

After his recent retrospective exhibition, titled “Floyd Newsum: Evolution of Sight,” showcased last year at the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, the memory of this remarkable artist continues to resonate. In recognition of his unwavering commitment to art and education, an endowed scholarship named the Floyd Newsum Visionary Artist and Humanitarian Scholarship will be established in his memory at UHD, aimed at supporting students in art and social work fields.

To pay tribute to his incredible life and contributions, a memorial service was held on August 27, 2024, at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, which was also made available through livestream for those who wanted to partake from afar.

A Celebration of Life and Creativity

As Memphis celebrates this landmark exhibition of Floyd Newsum Jr.’s art, it’s not just a look back at his works but a spotlight on his profound impact on this community and beyond. His influence on the lives he touched through art and activism is a reminder of the powerful role creativity can play in shaping our world.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Memphis Honors Floyd Newsum Jr. with Major Art Exhibition

Additional Resources

• Houston Chronicle: Artist Floyd Newsum Dies
• Glasstire: Floyd Newsum (1950-2024)
• Culture Type: Remembering Artist Floyd Newsum
• Philly Tribune: Floyd Newsum, Visionary Artist and Professor Dies
• Legacy: Floyd Newsum Obituary