Bronzeville Center for the Arts Announces New Exhibition: “Black Defined 1- Ceramics”

MILWAUKEE – The Bronzeville Center for the Arts (BCA) is pleased to announce a new exhibition, “Black Defined 1: Ceramics,” on view at Gallery 507 from August 7, 2025 to January 9, 2026. Located at 507 W. North Ave. in Milwaukee, the exhibition will explore the profound history and contemporary relevance of ceramics as a powerful storytelling medium. It will be open to the public Monday through Friday, 11am to 4pm.

“Black Defined 1: Ceramics” is the inaugural exhibition in the “Black Defined” series, which is dedicated to exploring the evolving intersections of identity, art-making, and material culture in relation to Blackness. This recurring series will periodically focus on specific themes or disciplines, spotlighting critical subjects and experimental approaches by Black artists and artists who engage in related, constructive discourse.

In partnership with The Chipstone Foundation, “Black Defined 1: Ceramics” will feature a diverse collection of both early colonial and contemporary ceramic objects. The exhibition will highlight the significant contributions of ceramicists from the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and historic objects from the Southeast, illustrating how artistic ideas, traditions, and craft practices are thoughtfully passed down through generations.

Contemporary Midwest-based artists include Alisa Drakes, Sydnie Jimenez, and Janiece Maddox. From the Mid-Atlantic, the exhibition will proudly feature works by Michelle Erickson, David Drake (also known as “Dave the Potter”), and Roberto Lugo.

“We are incredibly excited to launch the ‘Black Defined’ series with an exhibition that not only celebrates the artistry of ceramics but also unearths the rich narratives embedded within these pieces,” says Phoenix Brown, Curator at the BCA. “This collaboration exposes the enduring legacy and dynamic future of Black ceramicists, showcasing their profound impact on material culture across generations.”

For more information about the exhibition and the Bronzeville Center for the Arts, please visit www.bcamke.org.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.