Using the art and life of Thornton Dial as a point of departure, this public forum, held on April 8, 2011, explored the status of African American artists within the mainstream contemporary art world, an examination that reflects broader social, economic, and political “hard truths” within society at large. It explored the relevance of black creative expression to issues of social justice across racial boundaries.

Julian Bond is a civil rights leader, former Georgia state legislator, and former Chairman of the NAACP.

Other forum speakers included:
Joanne Cubbs- Introduction
Greg Tate
Fred Moten
Theaster Gates
Franklin Sirmans