The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College has announced it will feature the artwork of local Tuskegee Airman and artist Clarence Shivers. The exhibition “Clarence Shivers: Experimenting with Form” will open in the museum on Feb. 2. and is a unique opportunity to experience the work of an inspiring American artist who left a lasting legacy on the art world and beyond.
Shivers (1923-2007) demonstrated a commitment to artistic experimentation throughout his career, whether he was teaching art at Jackson State University, painting during a decade in Spain or working from his studio in Colorado Springs after moving here in 1979. The exhibition will feature more than 30 works, including paintings, prints and sculptures that offer an expansive view of his prolific career. He worked across different media and cultivated a range of stylistic approaches.
When Shivers volunteered to join the military and serve in World War II, his high score on the entrance exam qualified him to join the elite Tuskegee Program, where the first Black military pilots were being trained. Shivers trained with the Tuskegee Airmen and was recalled to service to fly in the Korean War, when the Air Force greatly needed pilots. Though the Tuskegee Airmen are now celebrated for their pioneering accomplishments, they were then discriminated against in the nation’s Jim Crowe era. Joining and serving with this highly selective and segregated group of aviators shaped Shivers’ commitment to celebrating the Black experience and creativity in his work. One of Shivers most celebrated works is the life-sized statue dedicated to these pilots and their legacies, titled Tuskegee Airmen of World War II, located at the United States Air Force Academy.
The exhibition is curated by Michael Christiano, director of visual arts and museum. “The Fine Arts Center is honored to host this exhibition of work by Clarence Shivers,” Christiano said in a press release. “He is an inspiring figure in so many ways and exemplifies a true commitment to artistic exploration. It has been a privilege to get to know his work and his life through this project. I am profoundly grateful to Peggy Shivers for sharing both with me and guiding our presentation of Clarence’s work.”
“Clarence was dearly loved in this community, and I think everyone is going to enjoy getting together to celebrate him and all he achieved,” said Peggy Shivers, wife of Clarence Shivers, in a press release. “It’s very nice to get recognition from anyone, but especially from your own community. I’m excited to see all his work in one place, including pieces that had been purchased as far back as the late 1970s. I want to thank the FAC for making this happen. From me and all of Clarence’s friends, we appreciate it. I’m especially happy for Clarence. He’d be so proud of this exhibition.”
Visitors to the Fine Arts Center will have the opportunity to explore Shivers’ distinctive approach to abstraction characterized by a prismatic, almost mosaic-like style. The exhibition will also feature his portraiture and other representational works, which took the form of friends, family members, musicians, civil rights leaders, military figures, and others, all of which were presented with poignant and expressive insight. The exhibition is generously supported by The Anschutz Foundation.
An Opening Celebration on Feb. 9 will include live music by Tidal Breeze, food and the chance to meet friends and family of the artist. This event is free and open to the public; RSVPs are requested.
You can find details about the exhibition and museum admission at fac.coloradocollege.edu.
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