Powerful Art Showcased at Local Art Museum

By Michael John

The Paul R. Jones Museum store front. - Michael John

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - The Paul R. Jones Collection of American Art is known for showcasing

the creations of African-American artists for the students of the University of Alabama and

residents of Tuscaloosa. For the month of March, ​Beverly Buchanan: Habitat For Humanity​ has

been on view. The theme of this exhibit has been centered around Buchanan’s famous shack

sculptures, in which she used clay, wood and cement to render the image of a run down home.

She didn’t stop there, however, Buchanan used pastels to decorate the outside of these small

shack sculptures, giving them a warm, inviting glow.

This theme of Buchanan’s art that has been on display could not fit more perfectly in the

town of Tuscaloosa. As a town that has recently underwent the tragedy and damage that comes

with a tornado, Buchanan’s shack sculptures give a sense of hope and repair. Buchanan’s main

inspiration came from torn down buildings. “​When I lived in New York I was looking for things
that were demolished. That gave them character,” Buchanan has famously said of her work.

“We are constantly looking for the most thought-provoking work to showcase here,” said Dan

White, art director.

Buchanan has won multiple awards in her lifetime for her work, such as the Guggenheim

Fellowship and the Women’s Caucus for Art lifetime achievement award. Her art has moved

individuals all over America, and now is bringing joy to Tuscaloosa. “I’ve never been a huge

admirer of art, but I keep finding myself attracted to these little houses,” said Greg Shiffer, a

sophomore at the University of Alabama. “Seeing an African-American female, who grew up in

south during the 1950s and 60s, go on to be such a renowned artist is really inspiring,” said

Katelyn Mackey, a Tuscaloosa resident.

Beverly Buchanan: Habitat For Humanity​ can be seen until mid-April at the Paul R.

Jones Collection of American Art, located on 6th Street. The exhibit is free to enter and is open

Monday through Friday every week.

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