Family, Community, Belonging: Works from the Collection

Family, Community, Belonging: Works from the Collection

February 9, 2024-January 11, 2026

Featuring a variety of historic, modern, and contemporary works, this collection-based exhibition explores evolving concepts of family and community in relation to themes of belonging, diversity, and inclusion. The works range from nineteenth-century portraits of European American mothers with children to Elizabeth Catlett’s powerful portrayal of an African American grandmother and grandson, as well as Caren King Choi’s recent monumental depiction of her Asian American nieces and nephews. Also included are works by artists from several Indigenous communities, including Melanie Yazzie (Diné) and Mario Martinez (Pascua Yaqui). 

The Museum’s collection reflects the diversity of American culture and common experiences shared across lines of race, gender, ethnicity, religion, and region.

The exhibition is curated by Gail Stavitsky, Ph.D, Chief Curator, Montclair Art Museum.

Preview the Exhibition
Image
Elizabeth Catlett (1915 – 2012) These Two Generations, 1987 lithograph 22 1⁄2 x 30 in. (no credit line on TMS) 1991.9.
Image
Caren King Choi (b. 1984), Mt. Rushmore (Nieces & Nephew), 2020, China marker, graphite, stickers on paper 36 x 46 in. Museum purchase; Acquisition Fund, 2022.13.
Family, Community, Belonging: Works from the Collection

Image Credits:

Elizabeth Catlett (1915–2012). These Two Generations, 1987. Lithograph, 22 1⁄2 x 30 in. 1991.9.

Caren King Choi (b. 1984). Mt. Rushmore (Nieces & Nephew), 2020. China marker, graphite, stickers on paper, 36 x 46 in. Museum purchase; Acquisition Fund, 2022.13 

Major Supporters
The Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Horowitz 19th and 20th Century Fund for American Art
Lyn and Glenn Reiter Endowed Special Exhibition Fund
Christine James and Nick De Toustain
Margo and Frank Walter

Supporters
Susan V. Bershad Charitable Fund
Toni LeQuire-Schott and Newton B. Schott, Jr.