Valerie Mercer and the Long Work of Putting African American Art Where It Belongs
The DIA's lead curator of African American art discusses what it means to move a collection from the margins of a museum to its literal center.
Detroit Institute of Arts
The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), founded in 1885, is located in Detroit, Michigan. It houses a collection of over 65,000 works, including masterpieces by artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Diego Rivera and Pieter Bruegel the Elder. The museum is renowned for its diverse range of art, from ancient to contemporary, and includes notable sections on African American art, Islamic art, and American art. The DIA offers dynamic exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, making it a cornerstone of cultural life in Detroit. Read more about Museums.
EXPO CHICAGO 2026: Local Enthusiasm and Strong Institutional Sales
Under new director Kate Sierzputowski, the fair opened with a tighter format and a sharper curatorial focus, driving early (and steady) sales across tiers.
Under Director Kate Sierzputowski, EXPO CHICAGO Bets On Renewed Institutional Depth
In conversation with Observer, she outlined her vision for an even more curatorially focused fair rooted in strong institutional partnerships and regional engagement.
