A Tender Spirit, A Vital Form: Arlene Burke-Morgan & Clarence Morgan

Clarence Morgan and Arlene Burke-Morgan are a prominent Minneapolis African American artist-couple who lived and worked side by side for thirty years, contributing significantly to each other and the art communities of the Twin Cities, the University of Minnesota, and beyond. The catalog for an exhibition at the Katherine E. Nash Gallery in 2023, A Tender Spirit, A Vital Form, is illustrated with reproductions of works by the artists and features essays on their personal histories and artistic practices.

Format: Hardback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2023
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press

Clarence Morgan and Arlene Burke-Morgan are an iconic artist couple who have left an indelible mark on the art world. Hailing from Philadelphia, they lived and worked side by side for over three decades, contributing significantly to each other and the art communities of the Twin Cities, the University of Minnesota, and beyond. Clarence Morgan, a member of the university's art department for thirty years, was a versatile artist known for his abstract approach, encompassing painting, drawing, and printmaking. Arlene Burke-Morgan, also a teacher at the university, began her artistic journey with textiles and later evolved into an abstract artist, particularly renowned for her work with clay, drawing, and installations.

To celebrate their remarkable lives and careers, the Katherine E. Nash Gallery at the University of Minnesota is hosting an exhibition titled "A Tender Spirit, A Vital Form" in 2023. The catalog for this exhibition is a treasure trove of illustrations, featuring reproductions of the artists' works alongside essays that delve into their personal histories and artistic practices. Contributors to the catalog include renowned art experts such as Robert Cozzolino from the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Tia-Simone Gardner from Macalester College, Bill Gaskins from the Maryland Institute College of Art, and Nyeema Morgan, an interdisciplinary artist.

Clarence and Arlene's love for each other, their family, and their art was unwavering. They were deeply committed to their faith, values, and culture, which played a pivotal role in their artistic development. Their dedication and hard work have earned them national and international acclaim and recognition, solidifying their place as pioneers in the art world.

Through their collective efforts, Clarence and Arlene have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and influence artists today. Their partnership, characterized by mutual support and creativity, serves as a testament to the power of love, passion, and dedication in pursuing one's artistic dreams. The exhibition at the Katherine E. Nash Gallery is a celebration of their remarkable journey and a testament to the lasting impact they have made on the art world.

Weight: 227g
Dimension: 298 x 248 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781517913908