Welcome to the Van Every/Smith Galleries at Davidson College, a site steeped in rich artistic history and cultural significance. Located in the town of Davidson, North Carolina, these galleries are an integral part of the college’s Belk Visual Arts Center, which was established in 1998. The galleries are named after William H. Van Every Jr. and Edward M. Smith, whose contributions have been pivotal in promoting the arts within the college and the wider community.
Davidson College itself was founded in 1837 and has a long-standing tradition of fostering academic and artistic excellence. The Van Every/Smith Galleries have played a crucial role in this mission by hosting a diverse range of exhibitions that reflect both contemporary issues and historical perspectives. One notable event in the galleries’ timeline is the Annual Juried Student Exhibition, which showcases the works of both art majors and non-majors, selected by the studio art faculty. This event not only highlights student talent but also underscores Davidson College’s commitment to nurturing young artists.
In recent years, the galleries have been home to thought-provoking exhibitions such as ‘We The People’ by Hank Willis Thomas, which explores themes of history, memory, and cultural identity. This exhibition is particularly significant as it coincides with the dedication of ‘With These Hands: A Memorial to the Enslaved and Exploited,’ a campus memorial that acknowledges the labor of enslaved people who contributed to the college’s history. Such exhibitions serve as poignant reminders of the past and inspire dialogues about the present and future.
The Van Every/Smith Galleries have also hosted works by renowned artists like Harold Mendez, whose installations combine archival photographs and organic materials to delve into themes of history and memory. Mendez’s works are a testament to the galleries’ dedication to presenting art that challenges and engages its audience.
Over the years, the galleries have evolved to become a vibrant hub for artistic expression, continually adapting to reflect the ever-changing landscape of contemporary art. They not only serve as a platform for established artists but also as a nurturing ground for emerging talent, making them a vital part of Davidson College’s cultural and educational fabric.
