Multiculturalism, Race, and Ethnicity in Ancient Times

Was “race” a concept in the ancient Greek and Roman world? That’s the question at the heart of a virtual talk organized and hosted by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Presented as one of VMFA’s “3 in 30” gallery talks, which are currently offered virtually, the program brings together Dr. Peter Schertz, VMFA’s Jack…

Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela 1918-2013

Nelson Mandela’s greatness as a fighter against apartheid and crusader for justice in South Africa was much celebrated, fortunately, during his lifetime and will stand for the ages as an inspiration to the world. His battle was not easy, but he never bowed or swerved, and four years after his release in 1990 from twenty-seven…

With respect to Nelson Mandela on his birthday

Today is the birthday of Nelson Mandela, Nobel Peace Prize winner and former president of South Africa. He is 95. This is an appropriate time to consider a South African work in VMFA’s collection. Sue Williamson, a South African artist, found this object in a thrift shop. It’s a pass book, and a remnant of…