Featuring the hidden collection of internationally known artist
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI) will present “Artistic Perseverance,” featuring the hidden collection of internationally known artist Steve A. Skipper from October 14- December 31, in BCRI’s Odessa Woolfolk Gallery. An opening reception for the exhibition will take place on October 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the BCRI rotunda. The reception is free and open to the public. Call 328-9696 x 234 for more information.
Skipper, who is well-known internationally for his officially licensed, college and professional sports-themed oil paintings, will display his “hidden collection” of art that has never been publicly displayed before. “The work reflects the value of perseverance,” noted Skipper. “They were done during a personally difficult time in my life when I didn’t want to paint. But God guided my hand and heart at a pace that I personally was not able to, and I found my will to paint again.” Skipper will also unveil “Perfect Peace,” an original oil painting in memory of the late Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth. Upon viewing the painting, Alby Headrick, Skipper’s photographer for six years now, remarked that, “Perfect Peace…is the best painting I have ever seen Steve Skipper do.”
“Although BCRI has several of Steve’s paintings on display throughout the building, this will be Steve’s first solo exhibition here,” stated Ahmad Ward, BCRI Head of Education and Exhibitions. “And the fact that this special collection has not been previously exhibited before makes it a must see show,” he added.
Over the years Skipper has won numerous awards for his art and has sold his paintings world-wide. Skipper has donated several of his paintings to BCRI, including a reproduction of the commemorative painting that was commissioned by the City of Birmingham for its celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Movement in 2013. Skipper is also the Founder and CEO of Anointed Homes Art.
