A shift in subject for Henry, this new body of work focuses on the generational history of Black families and communities on the lower Eastern Shore.
SALISBURY, MD – The Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, Salisbury University will host a bold new exhibit with Berlin-based artist Patrick Henry, debuting at the museum Friday, January 28. “Another View: Untold Stories” by Patrick Henry centers on using archived black and white photographs as reference to tell the stories of Black families and their communities here on the Eastern Shore.
Patrick Henry has gained a reputation as one of the Shore’s most influential artists. For decades, his snapshots of life on Delmarva; seascapes, landscapes, local attractions from the boardwalk and small-town living, have been highly sought after by both local fans and collectors from all over the world.
The paintings in this new body of work are translated through the style and use of color that has come to define Henry’s work over the years, but rather than depicting coastal and pastoral landscapes, showcase the distinction of its people. Paintings like ‘Hotel Staff in Ocean City’, ‘Wait Staff at Burley Manor’ in Berlin, and ‘James Franklin’ a Black veteran returning home from World War 1 all vividly highlight local people in familiar settings.
James Franklin
“Several years ago, this collection of photographs came my way and I started looking into the eyes of my ancestors from not only my family, but from others in my community, and the powerful refection back showed me that in spite of very adverse conditions they maintained their integrity – they maintained their spirit,” said Patrick Henry. “It’s a crossroad that we as a country have come to … the representation that we are all in this together; that we are all equal.”
Wait Staff at Burley Manor
“Another View” will feature dozens of original paintings. Next to each painting in the exhibit will be a copy of the historic black and white source photo for reference, along with some further historical context on the photo.
“We are thrilled to work with Patrick Henry to debut ‘Another View’, an exhibit that powerfully interprets so many untold stories of our region,” said Kristin Sullivan, Ward Museum Executive Director. “Patrick is a gift to the Eastern Shore, and I know that in his hands, this exhibit has the potential to inspire much-needed conversation about our diverse but intertwined heritages and our shared future.”
“Another View: Untold Stories” opens at the Ward Museum on Friday, January 28 and will be on display through May 15. An opening reception for the exhibit will be held at the museum on January 28 from 5:00-7:00pm along with Q&A opportunities with Patrick Henry.
Patrick Henry in studio
About the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, Salisbury University
The Ward Museum creates spaces and opportunities for learning about artistic traditions, community heritage, and connections to the natural environment. We create inspirational, innovative, and accessible exhibits, educational programs, and public events that build on the legacy of pioneering decoy makers Lem and Steve Ward.
