NOW EXTENDED THROUGH SEPTEMBER 11th!

Men of Change: Power. Triumph. Truth. profiles the revolutionary men—including Muhammad Ali, James Baldwin, Ta-Nehisi Coates, W.E.B Du Bois, and Kendrick Lamar—whose journeys have altered the history and culture of the country. The achievements of the men are woven within the legacy and traditions of the African American journey—achievements of excellence in spite of society’s barriers. 

Through literary and historic quotes, poetry, original works of art, dramatic photographs, and a dynamic space that encourages self-reflection, this innovative exhibition weaves together the historical and the contemporary to illuminate the importance of these men within the context of rich community traditions. It invites visitors to consider predominant narratives and engage in the authentic stories of history, politics, art, culture, and activism. Twenty-four contemporary artists were invited to reflect and celebrate the significance of these ground-breaking individuals through their own creative vision. These works of art serve as counterpoint to the sumptuously backlit photographs and inspiring quotes, and together honor the truth of the African American experience in history and today.

While these men made their mark in a variety of disciplines—politics, sports, science, entertainment, business, religion, and more—all understood the value of asserting their own agency by owning their own stories.

Men of Change was developed by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service and made possible through the generous support of the Ford Motor Company Fund.

Photo credit: Kendrick Lamar, 2018. Andrew Lih. Courtesy of Fuzheado/Andrew Lih. | James Baldwin, Istanbul 1964.  Sedat Pakay. Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, © Sedat Pakay 1964

Click here to purchase tickets.
Please note: Upon arrival you, will be able to request a timed pass for Men of Change based on availibility.

MEDIA RESOURCES:
All media inquiries should be directed to Rachel D. Graham, Director, External Relations at rachel.graham@lewismuseum.org.

Media Release: Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition Profiling Revolutionary African American Men Opens at Reginald F. Lewis Museum

Men of Change Fact Sheet – List of Men of Change and Artists

Artwork Image List with Captions (Please contract Rachel D. Graham for image files.)

Ford Motor Company Fund Men of Courage Fact Sheets