In the late 1950s, African American artists in Chicago were routinely shut out of the mainstream art galleries.
In response, artist-activist-author Dr. Margaret Burroughs, founder of the DuSable Museum of African American History, produced the Lake Meadows Art Fair and set it smack dab in the middle of the historic neighborhood of Bronzeville.
Thousands streamed into the art fair each year, until the ’70s, when the city of Bronzeville succumbed to economic depression.
Thirty-five years later, in 2005, museum curator Helen West brought the art fair back; thus, making a firm statement that Bronzeville was on the rebound.
The Lake Meadows Art Fair was well attended again this year, as the evolution continues with wearable art, prints, jewelry and prints. West’s renewed vision of the Lake Meadows Art Fair is a befitting tribute to the late beloved founder, Dr. Margaret Burroughs, and a celebration of fine art.
Photos by Bernard Williams
