Color in Freedom: Journey along the Underground Railroad

“‘Color in Freedom’ captures the majestic familiarity of Africa, the horror of enslavement, the drudgery of  slavery and the courage of escape.”

– Michelle J. Nealy, Diverse, March 23, 2009

“The pieces aren’t just visually beautiful, they tell a very important story as well.”

– Mary Hartsharn, Pensacola Museum of Art

The stories of the Underground Railroad are some of the most powerful in American history. Color in Freedom: Journey along the Underground Railroad is an exhibition of 49 paintings, etchings, and drawings by Joseph Holston that evoke the courage and tenacity of slaves determined to escape to freedom. The exhibition consists of four movements that track the flow of events in the lives of those who traveled the Underground Railroad:

  • The Unknown World
  • Living in Bondage
  • The Journey of Escape
  • Color in Freedom

Painter and printmaker Joseph Holston is best known for his use of vivid color, abstracted forms, and expressive lines. His work, which consistently garners critical praise, can be seen in numerous significant public and private collections. The exhibition Color in Freedom is organized by the Arts Program of the University of Maryland University College. An accompanying educational component consists of an integrated multi-disciplinary package, which includes a virtual exhibition tour to be used in various classroom settings, as well as integrated lesson plans for specific disciplines as they relate to the virtual exhibition, such as: artistic interpretation of a historic event; artistic technique and style, including color and form; and cultural and social significance.

A 96-page, full–color exhibition catalogue published by Pomegranate Communications, Inc., is available for purchase directly from the publisher.

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