A hidden treasure trove of art has recently been unearthed, shedding light on a pioneering figure in the art world who called Yellow Springs home.
Raymond Perret Harris, a name largely unknown beyond family circles and local communities, is now gaining nationwide recognition for his groundbreaking work as an African American artist in the mid-20th century. Harris’ legacy is being resurrected from obscurity and celebrated across the country thanks to the efforts of local resident Ena Nearon, founder of the Ten Talents Network.
“Artistry Re-Kindled: The Raymond P. Harris Retrospective Exhibit” — curated by Nearon in collaboration with the artist’s son, Robert Lee Harris — will debut at the Herndon Gallery at Antioch College on Saturday, April 6, with the exhibition on display through April 27.
On Sunday, April 7, a smaller, one-day exhibition of eight to 10 pieces will open at Central Chapel AME Church — where the artist was a longtime member and sang in the choir — with an accompanying event beginning at 4 p.m. The three-hour event will include speakers Kevin McGruder, Antioch College associate professor of history, and Erin M. Smith, artist and associate professor of studio art at Central State University; the two will “share insights into the importance of the field of art conservation to cultural heritage, enriching the audience’s understanding of the field of restoration and conservation while preserving Yellow Springs’ African American artistic legacy,” according to a press release. Also on hand will be Robert Lee Harris and the artist’s niece, Shirley Cummings, who will share personal anecdotes and historical insights on the artist.
A tour of the artist’s former Corry Street home is being planned for the future; a time and date for the tour will be announced at the Central Chapel event.
The journey to rediscover Raymond P. Harris began with a serendipitous encounter, Nearon told the News in a recent interview. During a visit by Nearon to the home of the artist’s son, Cincinnati resident Robert Lee Harris, Harris unveiled a July 13, 1953, edition of LIFE magazine featuring his father’s art.
“[Robert Harris] went in the drawer and he pulled this magazine out and I say, ‘What would you show me this for?’”
Robert Lee Harris went on to show Nearon an invaluable artistic cache: More than 100 pieces of his father’s art, stored in a basement.
Born in 1910 in Fort Scott, Kansas, Raymond P. Harris embarked on an artistic journey against the backdrop of a nation grappling with racial segregation. He would go on to graduate from Wilberforce University in 1939. After serving in the Navy during World War II, Harris relocated to Cincinnati with his family, where he pursued his passion for art at the Art Academy of Cincinnati.
In 1953, Harris made history as the first Black artist to be awarded the prestigious Stephen H. Wilder Scholarship by the Art Academy, granting him the opportunity to study art in Europe for 18 months.
While living in Paris, Harris was featured in a groundbreaking LIFE magazine article titled “Turmoil Rules the Left Bank,” showcasing the era’s vibrant artistic scene.
“A lot of African Americans had to go over to Europe to be received or even seen because they weren’t being seen here and that’s why that was such a big deal. And that’s what he took advantage of,” Nearon said.
Harris was part of a unique group of Americans in Paris, challenging the status quo and forging a path for future generations of artists of color.
By Truth Garrett
