By Hannah Harris
The David C. Driskell Center’s newest exhibition, “America Will Be!” highlights the experiences of African Americans in the United States.
The exhibit showcases contemporary artwork from over 20 artists. Each piece speaks to the experiences of the African American community in the United States through flag imagery, utilizing the nation’s most recognizable symbol.
The exhibit coincides with America’s 250th anniversary as an independent nation, according to a press release by the Driskell Center.
The poem “Let America Be America Again” by civil rights activist and prominent Harlem Renaissance figure Langston Hughes inspired the name of the exhibit, according to a plaque on site. The poem highlights the promise of a free country in contrast to the stark reality of inequality faced by African Americans.
This idea is echoed in each piece in the gallery.
June Edmonds, a featured artist in the exhibit, touched on the role the African American community plays in democracy when explaining the origins of her painting, “Four Years in the White House Flag.”
“African Americans are very, very important holders of democracy and believers of democracy to this day … that’s really how the idea of the flags came about,” Edmonds said.
Edmonds emphasized the resilience of the African American community and the consistent historical commitment to democracy despite hardships.
Edmonds’ piece depicts the American flag in deep tones of numerous colors.
“I’m using browns on purpose, because they’re skin tones,” Edmonds said. “I am sort of giving these flags a human body, if you will. A black human body, in particular, when it comes to that particular flag.”
Clint Gregory, director of the Michelle Smith Laboratory for Visual Culture, explained how art as a political statement transcends cultural identities and allows for connection.
“I think it’s absolutely essential that art is the nexus by which people might explore issues of race, because I think it probably gets past those initial linguistic barriers,” Gregory said.
Edmonds shared similar sentiments. She explained the importance of using one’s passions and talents to impact democracy.
“There’s many different ways to contribute to progressing us forward in democracy and in civil rights and in righteousness … this is how I’m using the gifts that I have been given,” Edmonds said.
“America Will Be!” is on view at The Driskell Center from Feb. 9 through May 8, 2026. The gallery is open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is closed on weekends.
Featured Image: Wall with artworks and a section titled “Write the Next Chapter” in the David C. Driskell Center’s newest exhibition, “America Will Be!” Photo courtesy of Pete Duvall.