Houston, Texas February 5, 2018: Rites of Passage: An Ode to Humanity & Culture is an exhibition celebrating the spirit of nature and human experience. A fusion of vintage African art and vibrant contemporary works, this exhibition weaves the paradigms of history into present day sentiment, paying homage to the archetypes of family and society. Twenty-six artists are featured in this sophisticated presentation of human lifestyle and survival. This uncommon assemblage of works represent selections from the University Museum’s permanent collection and includes rare sculptures, painting and drawing on various mediums including wood and metal. This exhibition is curated by Bonita Cutliff and will be on view Saturday, February 10 through April 15, 2018 with a special opening night presentation of music and poetry with light refreshments on Friday, February 9th at 7pm.

FEATURED ARTISTS: Amaki, John Biggers, Michael Chandler, Marion Cole, Jessie McCowan, Deirdre I. Curnell, Anthony Edwards, Cedric Franklin, Karl Hall, Calvin Hubbard, Johnny Jones, Daniella Lewis, J. Mendoza, Edward Mills, Theophilus Moore, Barry Morris, Joseph A. Moran, Prinston Nnanna , Kermit Oliver, Robert Pruitt, Cedric Taylor, David Kent Thomas, S. Thomas, Johnetta Tinker & Harry Vital.

About the University Museum: The University Museum is the realization of a dream that began over 71 years ago during the first administrative office of TSU in 1947. The “dream” was kept alive and nurtured by the faculty and alumni of the University’s fine arts department. The University Museum opened its doors April 12, 2000 and continues to attract guests from all over. The museum is home to a generous collection of art stemming from the African diaspora and boosts an 11, 000 square foot exhibition space of simple beauty and exceptional acoustics. Devoted to serving the community via educational programs, events and tours the University Museum offers an elegant setting in which to enjoy the beautiful cultures of the world.