Today's DAR
Just as the closing of each calendar year brings celebration, reflection, and anticipation, the recent conclusion of the DAR Museum’s exhibition, Fighting for Freedom: Black Craftspeople and the Pursuit of Independence, offered opportunities for attendees to engage in those same three principles. In partnership with the African American Craft Alliance, the exhibition’s culminating event, KUUMBA- LIVE! took place December 31, 2025.
DAR Museum Exhibition Culminating Special Event
Celebration – Devoted to the sixth principle of Kwanzaa, Kuumba (creativity), was celebrated with a remarkable group of practicing Black curators, craftspeople, performers, and artists including the Kwanzaa Ceremony presented by Kibibi Ajanku and The Sankofa Project; Movements performed by Althea Grey-McKenzie and The White House Studios; arts, crafts, music and storytelling by Julee Dickerson-Thompson and Young Masters, Inc.; Francine Haskins with a handmade African American Doll installation; and music by The Sankofa Project drummers and the a cappella group "In Process…"
Reflection – Honoring the work of Dr. Tiffany Momon and Dr. Torren L. Gatson, special guests offered information regarding the exhibition and reflective thoughts. As Co-Curators and Founders of Black Craftspeople Digital Archive, Dr. Momon and Dr. Gatson provided reflections on the exhibition as a whole and on particular details, sharing both personal insight and passion. Multi-disciplinary artist, art historian, and master doll maker Kimberly Camp shared photos of various works while reflecting on the art of creating. The three guests then took part in a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Diana Baird N’Diaye, Founder/Creative Director of the African American Craft Alliance.
Anticipation – After leaving the DAR Museum, in Fall 2026, the exhibit will commence a multi-year road trip to museums across the South, travelling to four venues through 2028 including: Gibbes Museum of Art, Charleston, SC; Historic New Orleans Collection, New Orleans, LA ; Tennessee State Museum, Nashville, TN; and Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, Winchester, VA. These additional venues invite a greater audience not only to reflect on our founding principles but inspire proactive thoughts about how we can continue to shape our country and make a difference, both individually and collectively.
Partnerships of this nature develop through thoughtful dedication and a sincere desire to provide a wholesome experience for all those involved. We express our gratitude to Dr. Lee Glazer, Senior Director- Historic Preservation and Collections for her leadership and vision, and to Jennifer Johnson, Museum Director, and the entire DAR Museum headquarters team for their dedication to the success of this culminating event.
