Walsh Library Gallery at Seton Hall University

Presents

Black Beauty, Identiy  and Spirituality:

The Art of Don Miller

                       
Click here to enter gallery

New Jersey Governor's Proclamation about Don Miller

January 20- March 13, 1998

Opening reception Friday-February 6th 4:30-7:30pm

Gallery Talk at 4:30pm

with co-curators Dr. Judy Miller and Victor L. Davson

Music by the Seton Hall University Gospel Choir

Co-sponsored by the Office of the President, the Center for African American Studies

and the Office of the Dean for Community Development

Gallery hours M-F 10:30-4:30          ( 973) 275-2033

Groups and weekends by arrangement

The Walsh Library Gallery is an ideal setting for Black Beauty, Identity and Spirituality: The Art of Don Miller. Seton Hall was home to me for twenty years as I directed the Black Studies Center/African American Studies.  Don was also involved with Seton Hall students while teaching for the Center.

Don believed in the beauty of his people and was insistent on portraying them accurately and with dignity. This is evident in Adua, and the queens:  Sheba, Nefretiti, Yaa, Asantewa, Nzinga and the Olocun Priestess. His portrait of me, done as a wedding present, is also included in his theme of Black beauty.

Early in his life Don became fascinated with Black history and its heroes. It was a vital part of his own identity. His first "one man" show at the age of eleven was dominated by portraits of Black historical figures. This culminated in his magnum opus The King Mural (7 feet by 56 feet) which chronicles King’s life, and is a history lesson resulting from my frustration with my students’ lack of knowledge of the Black struggle for justice.

Spirituality became a near obsession as a result of his experiences during his visits and stay in Africa.   Don discovered his personal connection to Africa which climaxed in his painting the triptych Sacred Connections.  There are many symbols in his work, from the fabric worn by people, to the prominence and meaning of the drum in the center panel.  This work represented, for him, the ultimate connection to joy and purpose.

Don’s dream was an Artist’s dream –that their work would continue to influence, inspire, and in his case instruct, long after they have departed.

Julia (Judy) Miller
Professor Emeritus, Seton Hall University
Judy Miller is the spouse of Don Miller