Experience Clementine Hunter’s Memories at African American Museum

A new exhibition at the African American Museum in Dallas is set to transport visitors into the world of self-taught Louisiana painter Clementine Hunter. Opening next week, “Sunday Call to Church: The Art of Clementine Hunter” celebrates the unique perspective of an artist who depicted worship, work, and community on a former plantation in her vibrant work.

Discovering Clementine Hunter’s Enduring Art

Dallas is proud to host a significant collection of Clementine Hunter’s work, providing a rare and invaluable opportunity for locals to delve into the artist’s deeply personal reflections. The exhibition, aptly titled “Sunday Call to Church: The Art of Clementine Hunter,” will feature a compelling blend of 22 paintings from the esteemed collection of Bank of Texas chairman Norman Bagwell, complemented by four significant pieces from the museum’s own permanent holdings. This highly anticipated showcase is scheduled to open its doors on December 5th and will remain on display through March 6th, offering ample time for repeated visits.

Who Was Clementine Hunter: A Self-Taught Visionary

Born in 1887 on a Louisiana plantation, Clementine Hunter’s remarkable artistic journey began late in life, when she was approximately 50 years old. For the vast majority of her life, she dedicated herself to demanding roles as a field laborer and house worker at Melrose Plantation. While she initially engaged in creative pursuits like quilting and other crafts, a transformative moment occurred when an artist visiting the property generously left behind leftover paint and brushes. This simple act ignited Hunter’s innate talent, propelling her to paint on any available surface she could find. Her canvases, often found objects, became windows into her soul, capturing profound memories rather than mere live observations of the plantation as she experienced it.

Faith, Labor, and Community Through Her Brushstrokes

Hunter’s paintings are celebrated for their distinctive “naive” style, which, despite not being “super detailed and drawn out,” possesses a profound intelligence and emotional depth. As museum associate curator Lakeem Wilson articulates, this intelligence allows viewers to “kind of put yourself in the settings of the works,” visualizing the nuanced skies, grounds, and intricate daily activities she depicted. Her art is a rich tapestry woven with reflections of her deeply held religious beliefs and the pivotal role of the local church within the plantation community. This spirituality is vividly expressed in scenes portraying baptisms, solemn funerals, and the frequent, comforting presence of angels. Wilson underscores Hunter’s fervent conviction that she “wanted to go to heaven and that she needed to live right in order to do that,” believing strongly that “going to church would save people’s souls.” This personal faith permeates every stroke.

Beyond individual spiritual life, Hunter’s oeuvre offers an unparalleled historical and cultural narrative. Her work meticulously records the everyday rhythms, the unwavering resilience, and the deep-seated faith of Black communities in the rural South—a significant and often underrepresented segment of American art history. Each painting serves as a testament to the lives lived and experiences shared within that unique historical context.

A Curator’s Call to Wisdom

Lakeem Wilson’s decision to curate this exhibition was driven in part by a profound respect for the inherent wisdom embodied by artists of Hunter’s generation. He eloquently conveys the vital importance for younger generations to “be soaking in and gathering” the invaluable insights and perspectives passed down by their elders. This curatorial philosophy elevates the exhibition beyond a mere display of art; it frames it as an essential dialogue across generations, connecting contemporary audiences with a rich and resilient cultural legacy that demands recognition and understanding. This makes the exhibition a powerful educational and reflective experience for all Dallas residents.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Exhibition

• When does the Clementine Hunter exhibition officially open to the public?
  The exhibition, “Sunday Call to Church: The Art of Clementine Hunter,” is scheduled to open on December 5th, 2025.
• What is the exact location of the exhibition in Dallas?
  It is hosted at the African American Museum Dallas, conveniently situated at 3536 Grand Ave. in Dallas.
• Is there an admission fee required to view the exhibition?
  No, admission to this significant art exhibition is completely free for all visitors.
• What distinctive style of art did Clementine Hunter create?
  She is celebrated for her “naive” style paintings, vividly depicting scenes of worship, daily work, and vibrant community life on a Louisiana plantation, all masterfully rendered from her rich personal memory.
• For how long will the Clementine Hunter exhibition be on display?
  The exhibition offers an extended viewing period, running from its opening on December 5th through March 6th.

For Dallas residents seeking cultural enrichment and a deeper connection to American art history, this exhibition presents a truly unmissable opportunity. Immerse yourself in the powerful and poignant artistry of Clementine Hunter, whose work offers a unique and invaluable glimpse into the enduring spirit and profound experiences of a pivotal community.

Clementine Hunter Art Exhibition Opens Dallas