Hunter’s art speaks to joy in everyday life

By Taylor Mayad Powell

The African American Museum, Dallas (AAMD) will present Sunday Call to Church: The Art of Clementine Hunter opening Friday, Dec. 5 in the Museum’s Folk Art Gallery (located on the main level). Free and open to the public, the exhibition celebrates the remarkable vision and enduring legacy of self-taught Louisiana artist Clementine Hunter (1887-1988), whose vivid depictions of everyday life on the Melrose Plantation stand among the most important bodies of folk art in American history. The exhibition continues through March 6, 2026. 

Sunday Call to Church: The Art of Clementine Hunter draws from private collections and from the Museum’s extensive folk art holdings, recognized as one of the most significant in the Southwest. The exhibition offers visitors an intimate look at Hunter’s expressive style and storytelling genius. Through vibrant scenes of worship, work and community, Hunter chronicled a world rarely seen in mainstream art history — one that honors the rhythms, resilience and faith of Black life in the rural South.

“This exhibit is decades in the making. It was a dream of our founder, Dr. Harry Robinson, Jr. to secure such a large collection of Ms. Hunter’s work, and we are thrilled to share this extensive exhibition with the Dallas community and visitors from across the region,” said Lisa Brown-Ross, president and CEO of the African American Museum, Dallas. 

“Clementine Hunter’s art speaks to the joy and creativity that emerge from everyday life. We invite families, students and art lovers alike to experience her vision and feel the spirit she captured so beautifully.”

“Clementine Hunter painted what she knew — the rituals of community, the spirit of Sunday mornings and the dignity of work,” said Margie J. Reese, senior programs officer, African American Museum, Dallas. “Her story reinforces why preserving cultural memory remains central to our mission.”

As part of opening weekend, the museum will host a public lecture by Dr. Bolanji Campbell, professor of art and visual culture at Rhode Island School of Design, on Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m. in the Education Plaza Auditorium. Dr. Campbell’s presentation will explore the broader context of African American folk-art traditions and Hunter’s lasting influence on American art.

Prior to the exhibition’s debut, an opening reception will be held.

The African American Museum is located in historic Fair Park, and admission is free. Free self-parking is available in nearby lots.

For more information, go to aamdallas.org.

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