New Jersey’s premier African American art exhibit honors one of their own

Jan. 24, 2011 - PRLog -- For the past 19 years, Art In The Atrium, Inc. (ATA), has been showcasing fine art by master, established and emerging African American artists to the community. In preparation for Black History Month, ATA will present its 19th annual exhibit, “Memories of Russell”. The opening reception will be held on January 28, 2011 at the Atrium Gallery in Morristown, New Jersey, and will highlight images, works and techniques that evoke memories of the deceased artist, art teacher, curator and colleague Russell Aldo Murray, one of the founding members of ATA. Thirty-seven African American fine artists will participate in the festivities by showcasing their work.
"Art in the Atrium is proud to have maintained the longest running and most significant African American fine art show in the state”, says ATA Director of Special Events, Lauren Craig. “Russell Murray was there with us from the beginning so it is only fitting that we dedicate this exhibit to his memory". Russell Murray was a gifted artist, ardent arts advocate and inspiring teacher. He also played an integral role in the building of Art In The Atrium to what it is today.
Art connoisseur and author of Studios and Workspaces of Black American Artists, Dennis Forbes will be the guest speaker during the opening reception and will speak on the importance of collecting African American art. Alonzo Adams will be signing his print commissioned by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., “Legacy.” Bryan Collier, recent recipient of both the Coretta Scott King and Caldecott Honor Awards, will be signing his newest children’s book, “Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave.” “Memories of Russell” will be held at the Atrium Gallery, Administration and Records Building, 10 Court Street, Morristown, beginning January 28, 2011 and will conclude on March 11, 2011.

About Art In The Atrium (ATA)
Art in the Atrium, Inc. (ATA) was founded in 1992. Since then the organization has been showcasing fine art by established and emerging African American artists as well as providing an introduction to African American appreciation to the community with a special emphasis on school - aged children. For additional information on Art In The Atrium, please visit www.artintheatrium.org or tweet with us @ArtInTheAtrium.