Hammonds House Museum, one of the earliest free-standing museums dedicated solely to the art of African-American and African-diasporic artists in the South, has unveiled its first permanent installation. The museum now hosts a captivating collection of 10 works in its brand-new John Rhoden Sculpture Garden.
The late New York-based sculptor John Rhoden explored the human form through movement and texture, in modernist and folkloric styles simultaneously. Curator Halima Taha, artistic chair of Hammonds House Museum, recently joined Lois Reitzes on “City Lights” to discuss the new sculpture garden.
Taha said the addition of the new garden helped realize one of the major goals of Hammonds House Museum.
“I feel that this project is a testament to our commitment to making art accessible and engaging for everyone,” she said.
The collection arrived at Hammonds House by way of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, which donated the works in honor of Rhoden’s deep connections to education and Atlanta’s art scene. Taha is confident that the new permanent installation at Hammonds House Museum will contribute to their goal of fostering “a spirit of curiosity, discovery, and personal growth.”
