The Valentine Museum is presenting “Edmund Archer: Perspectives on Black Dignity,” featuring 10 works by the late artist Edmund Archer (1904-1986). Archer’s art is distinguished by its commitment to faithfully capturing the physical details of his subjects, challenging the prevailing stereotypes of the late Jim Crow era and offering a dignified representation of their humanity.

Born in Richmond, Archer spent time in various cities, including Paris, New York and Washington. He served as an assistant curator at the Whitney Museum of American Art and taught at the Corcoran School of Art.

In 1926, Archer rented the studio of Edward Valentine, the museum’s first president, where he focused on creating portraits devoid of broader context or commentary.

“In his portraits of Black Americans, Edmund Archer captured the humanity of his subjects in a way that is profoundly different from the caricatures created by other white artists in the Jim Crow era,” said Christina K. Vida, curator of general collections at the Valentine and co-curator of the exhibition.

Archer’s legacy continues to shape Richmond’s artistic culture. In 1962, he co-founded The Hand Workshop in Church Hill, which later became the Visual Arts Center of Richmond.

“Our family is truly honored that the Valentine has organized and supported this exhibition,” said Guy Archer, co-curator of the exhibition and great-nephew of Edmund Archer. 

“Our uncle was a brilliant, kind and wonderful man, and we’re delighted that the museum is once again securing his legacy as one of Virginia’s great and momentous artists.”

The paintings featured in this exhibition are on loan from Guy Archer and Mollie Archer Payne. The exhibition continues through Sept.1, 2025.