New York Exhibition Celebrates Over 100 Years of Black American Art

ACA Galleries' "Continuum: Over 100 Years of Black Art" traces creative developments across generations and genres.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

ACA Galleries in New York is hosting an exhibition titled "Continuum: Over 100 Years of Black Art" that showcases the work of more than a dozen Black artists from the 19th century to today. The wide-ranging show includes paintings, collages, sculptures, and textile art that celebrate the pioneering practices and diverse styles of these creators.

Why it matters

The exhibition provides a comprehensive look at the complex and evolving realm of Black art in America, highlighting the enduring contributions of Black artists across multiple generations and genres. It serves as an important celebration and examination of this essential vein of art history.

The details

The exhibition features early works by Charles Ethan Porter, known for his contemplative floral still lifes, as well as a vibrant collage by Romare Bearden that reflects his Jazz-inspired style. Other highlights include textile art by Helen McBride Richter, sculptures by Augusta Savage and Elizabeth Catlett, and mixed-media compositions by Faith Ringgold and Sam Gilliam. Together, the diverse artworks in "Continuum" illuminate the impact and influence of Black artists throughout American art history.

  • The exhibition is on view at ACA Galleries in New York through March 7, 2026.
  • ACA Galleries was established in 1932 as one of the first galleries in New York City to focus exclusively on American art.

The players

Charles Ethan Porter

A painter who specialized in still lifes and was one of the first Black artists to exhibit at the National Academy of Design in New York.

Romare Bearden

Recognized as one of the great collagists of the 20th century, he was also an author and songwriter greatly inspired by Jazz music.

Helen McBride Richter

A textile artist who taps historical modes of quilt making with a contemporary sensibility.

Augusta Savage

A sculptor whose work is featured in the exhibition.

Elizabeth Catlett

A sculptor whose work is featured in the exhibition.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The "Continuum" exhibition at ACA Galleries offers a comprehensive and celebratory look at the diverse, pioneering, and enduring contributions of Black artists across more than a century of American art history.