The Gibbes Museum of Art Honors Spike Lee

The Gibbes Museum of Art, established in 1858, honored Spike Lee at the museum’s 2024 Distinguished Lecture Series annual event.

Free live-streaming of the event was provided for students from across the country, and the video is now accessible to all viewers, due to the timeliness of the discussion. 

The conversation at the Charleston Music Hall, filled to capacity, was moderated by Pauline Forlenza, director and CEO of the American Federation of Arts and co-presented with Angela Mack, president and CEO of the Gibbes Museum of Art.

The conversation revealed new insights into the art world’s continued recognition of Spike Lee’s cultural impact. Lee’s legacy as a visionary icon worldwide is anchored by his longstanding commitment to authenticity and social justice.

During his talk, Spike Lee championed the vital role of Black artists in the American South. He highlighted artworks from his collection by African American southern artists that influenced his work, including: William H. Johnson (born in South Carolina); Romare Bearden (born in North Carolina); Deborah Roberts (Texas); Radcliffe Bailey (Georgia); and Michael Ray Charles (Louisiana).

Lee discussed how these artists have always been creative sources of artistic expression for his film work, and for his ongoing creativity in arts and entertainment.