Arthur Berry papers

Collection

Identifier: 551

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The papers document the personal and professional life of Arthur Berry, artist and educator. Included is correspondence, an essay on Aaron Douglas by Arthur Berry, his curriculum vitae, photographs of Berry and his artwork, and newspaper articles regarding his career. Notable correspondents include artists John T. Scott and John Rhoden. Materials reflect professional relationships at Fisk University, the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, Florida A&M University, Alabama A&M College, and Albany State College.

Dates

Created: 1957-1993
Other: Date acquired: 01/27/1998

Creator

Berry, Arthur R., 1923- (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

None

Conditions Governing Use

It is the responsibility of an author to secure permission for publication from the holder of the copyright to any material contained in this collection.

Biographical Note

Born in 1923 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Arthur Berry enrolled in Fisk University after serving in World War II. Strongly influenced by Aaron Douglas, who was then chair of Fisk's art department, Berry pursued art as a career. Berry received formal training in art at Fisk University, Columbia University, and the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture. During his career, he has taught African American art, art education, design, drawing, painting, and sculpture at Alabama A&M University, Florida A&M University, and Albany State University (Georgia) where he also served as head of the art department. Berry's work has been exhibited throughout the United States, including the LeMoyne Art Foundation, Florida A&M University, and the 1950 United Negro College Fund Traveling Exhibition. His works included both traditional painting and experiments with innovative techniques and materials.