inspirational story

The work of artist Henry Ossawa Tanner is seen in a new light at rare MFAHexhibit

Henry Ossawa Tanner, The Annunciation, 1898, oil on canvas, Philadelphia Museumof Art, Philadelphia, Pa., purchased with the W.P. Wilstach Fund, 1899
Photo courtesy of Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Henry Ossawa Tanner, Fishermen at Sea, c. 1913, oil on canvas, SmithsonianAmerican Art Museum, Washington, D.C., gift of Jesse O. Tanner
Photo courtesy of Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Henry Ossawa Tanner, The Resurrection of Lazarus, 1896, oil on canvas, Muséed’Orsay, Paris, France
Photo by Hervé Lewandoswki/© Réunion des Musées Nationaux/Art Resource, New York
Henry Ossawa Tanner, A View of Palestine, 1898-1899, oil on canvas, The FrancesLehman Loeb Art Center, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, N.Y, gift of Mrs. WalterDriscoll (Margaret L. Weyerhaeuser, class of 1923), Mrs. F. Rodman Titcomb(Elizabeth L. Weyerhaeuser, class of 1915) and Mrs. Robert J. Sivertsen (SarahWeyerhaeuser, class of 1930)
Photo courtesy of Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Henry Ossawa Tanner, A Mosque in Cairo, 1897, oil on canvas, William M. LewisJr. and Carol Sutton Lewis
Photo by Joshua Nefsky
Henry Ossawa Tanner, The Disciples See Christ Walking on the Water, c. 1907, oilon canvas, Des Moines Art Center, Des Moines, Iowa, Permanent Collections, giftof the Des Moines Association of Fine Arts
Photo courtesy of Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Henry Ossawa Tanner, Portrait of the Artist’s Mother, 1897, oil on canvas,Philadelphia Museum of Art, Pa., partial gift of Dr. Rae Alexander-Minter andpurchased with the W. P. Wilstach Fund, the George W. Elkins Fund, the Edwardand Althea Budd Fund and with funds contributed by The Dietrich Foundation, 1993
Photo courtesy of Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Josephine Baker, James Baldwin, Nina Simone — and don’t forget Henry Ossawa Tanner.

Dancer, writer, singer, and painter, all four were African-American artists who left their homes, that perhaps didn't always feel like home, to seek inspiration and refuge in France.

It’s hard not to see this in a new light, in the midst of an election cycle featuring bumper stickers and T-shirts with the slogan, “Time to Make the White House White Again.”

The exhibition features more than 100 of Tanner’s landscapes, portraits, and paintings of biblical themes.

Tanner may be the least familiar name on this list, but a major traveling retrospective, Henry Ossawa Tanner: Modern Spirit, is making its final stop at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston from now through Jan. 13, 2013. The exhibition, organized by the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and curated by Anna O. Marley, features more than 100 of Tanner’s landscapes, portraits, and paintings of biblical themes.

Tanner is also, no doubt, less familiar than his artistic contemporaries John Singer Sargent, James McNeill Whistler, Tanner’s mentor Thomas Eakins, and others. And yet Tanner is often-described as the most famous African-American artist of his era.

Middle East and portraits

Like Sargent, Tanner shared an interest in the Middle East and traveled there to paint. Like Whistler, Tanner painted portraits, notably a marvelous rendering of his mother in a clear homage to Whistler’s famous "Arrangement in Grey and Black" No. 1 often called Whistler’s Mother.

The difficulty of locating Tanner with respect to a sense of racial and national belonging impacts his visibility.

Tanner is often quoted as having said of Paris, "I am simply M. Tanner, an American artist. Nobody knows or cares what was the complexion of my forebears."

Tanner is often quoted as having said of Paris, "I am simply M. Tanner, an American artist. Nobody knows or cares what was the complexion of my forebears. I live and work there in terms of absolute social equality."

No doubt this is why, as curator Emily Neff put it, "many look to Tanner now as having a prescient post-racial attitude." In an exhibition catalogue essay Olivier Meslay is more cavalier, insisting of Tanner, "Before being black, he was an artist."

Although African-American genre scenes were common in his era, Tanner painted few. "The Banjo Lesson" presents a marvelous frozen moment, a scene of instruction as a young boy stands and leans against the legs of his seated elder who looks on as he cautiously explores the strings. In "The Thankful Poor," a similar pair bow their heads to say grace over a modest meal.

Tanner claimed he was drawn to such scenes "because of a desire to represent the serious, and pathetic side of life" and because "he who has most sympathy with his subjects will obtain the best results" as opposed to the "many artists who have represented Negro life [who] have only seen the comic, the ludicrous side of it, and have lacked sympathy."

Tellingly, Tanner writes in the third person.

Marlay remarked that for Tanner, whose mother was a freed slave, "abolition was built into the fabric of his name. "Ossawa" is a shortened form of abolitionist John Brown's nickname "Osawatomie" Brown, commemorating the Battle of Osawatomie, Kansas, in 1856.

The most famous religious painter

Clearly, Tanner was making a point when, in his signature work, "The Resurrection of Lazarus," he placed an African-American figure prominently amidst the crowd of awed onlookers. The painting is a study of contrast between the viewers of the miracle and the serenity of Christ and the resurrected Lazarus, who wakes gently, as if from a nap. Light returns gradually to the sepia-toned world in which the resurrection has happened, like life returning to a corpse.

Marley rued that this collection "probably won't be together for another 20 years or so" while Tinterow described the exhibition as a chance to "reach out to the African-American community."

As MFAH director Gary Tinterow remarked at a press preview for the exhibition, Tanner was perhaps "the most famous religious painter" of his era. "Lazarus" finds good company in his marvelous "The Annunciation." Mary, clothed in simple but richly texture robes and resting on a humble bed in a spare cell, stares into a column of light.

The most potent of Tanner's religious scenes begin to turn away from figures and from the blinding light of the annunciation and toward textured landscapes and cool tones. In "Sodom and Gomorrah," three bundled figures crouch small in the foreground. A white pillar of salt, the remainder of Lot's wife who turned back as she fled, stands behind them. All you can see is a massive cloud of smoke and the textured plains that once surrounded a city.

Texture, abstraction, layered paint, and steely blues take over. In "The Disciples See Christ Walking on the Water," several figures in a boat gaze at a white halo in the distance, but the canvas is dominated by the diamond texture of the water.

Perhaps it was his devotion to biblical scenes that drew him to travel to the Middle East to paint scenes like those that attracted Sargent. In "Palace of Justice, Tangiers," the blue-washed, roughly textured building serves as backdrop for two dark figures, a man leading a woman riding a donkey, as if any location might be the Holy Land if you see it in the right light.

Henry Ossawa Tanner: Modern Spirit offers rare opportunities. Marley rued that this collection "probably won't be together for another 20 years or so" while Tinterow described the exhibition as a chance to "reach out to the African-American community." Tanner's was, he said, an "inspirational story." It's hard not to wonder just what Tanner might think of that.

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Weekend event planner

Here are the top 14 things to do in Houston this weekend

Photo courtesy of NBC

Seth Meyers will perform at Bayou Music Center on October 24.

If you wanna get in the spooky, cinematic spirit before Halloween pops off next weekend, on Thursday, Kefita Coffee will screen the cult vampire flick Ganja & Hess, while Box 13 ArtSpace will have a demonic double feature of The Exorcist and The Devils. And, on Sunday, Shoeshine Charley’s Big Top Lounge will close out its horror-tinged month of Mid Main Movie Club double bills with The Shining and The Thing.

Here are some other events and happenings going down this weekend, from a Mediterranean festival to an East Montrose tour/walk to a two-night performance from someone who really adores Beyonce.

Photo courtesy of NBC

Seth Meyers will perform at Bayou Music Center on October 24.

Thursday, October 22

Architecture Center Houston presents "Big Dome, Bigger Dreams: Visions for Harris County Domed Stadium" opening reception
"Big Dome, Bigger Dreams: Visions for Harris County Domed Stadium" explores the history, significance, and possible future of one of Houston’s most recognizable landmarks. The exhibition traces the Astrodome, from its groundbreaking development and revolutionary engineering achievements through its decades of historic events, decline, and ongoing debate over its future. Through Friday, January 22. 5:30 pm.

Gente de Teatro presents El Test
Would you prefer $100,000 now or $1,000,000 in 10 years? The play El Test (The Test) begins with a simple question and uses humor and intelligence to strip away the masks we all wear. What starts as an innocent game ends up questioning everything: love, success, failure, friendship, ethics, the fear of time's passage, and the small lies each character has used to construct their identity. All performances are in Spanish. Through Sunday, November 1. 7:30 pm (3:30 pm Sunday).

Theatre Under the Stars presents Mrs. Doubtfire
Based on the beloved 1993 film, Mrs. Doubtfire tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the kindly alter ego of a Scottish nanny in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. A hysterical and heartfelt story about holding onto your loved ones against all odds, Mrs. Doubtfire is the musical comedy that proves we’re better together. 7:30 pm (8 pm Friday; 2 & 8 pm Saturday; 2 pm Sunday).

Friday, October 23

Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation presents Power of Literacy Luncheon
Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation’s Ladies for Literacy Guild will host its annual Power of Literacy Luncheon, now in its 11th year. The luncheon will feature a conversation with Grammy/Emmy winner Harry Connick, Jr., who will discuss his new book, Babe: Elaboratio - A Tribute to My Mother. Attendees will also enjoy a silent auction, raffle and special “Giving Tree” opportunity. Proceeds from this year’s luncheon will benefit childhood literacy initiatives throughout the Houston area. 11 am.

St. George Orthodox Christian Church presents Houston Mediterranean Festival
The Houston Mediterranean Festival celebrates the culture and flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring dishes like gyro, shawarma, and baklava, plus Arabic entertainment from around Houston and dancing from the St. George Dabke troupe. For two days, families can enjoy petting zoo visits, face painting, and balloon artists. Visitors can also explore the Mediterranean marketplace, take a tour of the church, and bid in the silent auction for a chance to take home something special. 11 am.

Rice Cinema presents The Fall
In co-writer/director Tarsem Singh’s 2006 fantasia, a young immigrant girl recovers from a broken arm in a Los Angeles hospital during the 1920s. She befriends a bedridden stuntman who was paralyzed after an accident on set. He tells her an epic, fantastical tale about a group of outcast heroes seeking revenge against an evil ruler. As the line between reality and imagination blurs, the stuntman’s story reflects his own fragile emotional state, and the girl weaves herself and the people around her into his vivid mental landscape. 7 pm.

Houston Symphony presents "Hocus Pocus Pops"
"Hocus Pocus Pops" is packed with music, costumes, candy, and just the right amount of mischief. The Houston Symphony will present a family-friendly concert full of spooky favorites, playful surprises, and magical moments that bring the spirit of Halloween to life. Folks are encouraged to come dressed in their best costume. Before the concert, kids and families can explore the plazas for trick-or-treating, activities, and festive fun. 7:30 pm.

Saturday, October 24

The East Montrose Civic Association presents the 15th Biennial Home Tour and Art Walk
The East Montrose Civic Association will host its day-long, 15th Biennial Home Tour and Art Walk this weekend. During the 1960s, East Montrose became a center for the counterculture and hippie communes. Today, this pedestrian-friendly area exhibits a diverse mix of people and architecture. Tourgoers can get a glimpse of how the architecture has been transformed over the years, with results of unique renovations that are characteristic of this distinctive, eclectic neighborhood. 10 am.

Flying Saucer presents 15th Anniversary Celebration
Flying Saucer will celebrate 15 years in Sugar Land Town Square with a block party featuring craft beer, music from DJ Jetplane, anniversary beer experiences, exclusive merchandise, and raffles featuring prizes from our Sugar Land Town Square neighbors. Attendees can join the beer-sampling experience for $30. They will receive a taster card and a custom 15th Anniversary Taster glass, along with access to a choice of up to 10 rare beer pours. 4 pm.

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts presents Beyond Broadway: Tituss Burgess
Tituss Burgess is known from Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Schmigadoon, one of his many star turns on Broadway (Oh, Mary!, Moulin Rouge, Guys and Dolls, The Little Mermaid, Jersey Boys), or all these memes. Wherever you know him from, he’s one of the most versatile and dynamic performers out there. This one-night-only concert will feature a wide swath of music, ranging from classic and modern musical theatre hits to songs by John Mayer, Shirley Bassey, Bette Midler, music from Porgy & Bess, and more. 7:30 pm (1 pm Sunday).

Bayou Music Center presents Seth Meyers
When he’s not trying to make sense every weeknight on his NBC late-night talk show, Seth Meyers still heads out on the road and does stand-up. The former Saturday Night Live head writer/Weekend Update anchor has already dropped two specials (Netflix’s Lobby Baby in 2019 and HBO’s Dad Man Walking in 2024). He’ll be in the Lone Star State for two shows this weekend – first hitting Dallas on Friday, then Houston on Saturday. 7 pm.

Sunday, October 25

Space City Fest
Space City Fest is a Christian music festival recognized as one of the largest Christian hip hop festivals in the country. This year’s festivities will be headlined by four-time Grammy winner Lecrae. It will also feature performances from other Christian hip hop artists. The event will be hosted by Houston’s own Von Won — Christian hip hop artist, community leader, and lead pastor of Space City Church. 4 pm.

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents The Third Man
Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, and Orson Welles star in director Carol Reed’s gripping 1949 drama, set in post-World War II. Allied-occupied Vienna. An American novelist arrives in the city, learns that his longtime friend Harry Lime is dead, and sets out to find out what happened while also becoming involved with his friend’s lover. Globally acknowledged as a masterpiece, The Third Man (which will be shown in glorious 35mm!) is must-see essential cinema. 5 pm.

BEAR...BE A Resource presents Stetsons & Stilettos
Stetsons & Stilettos is BEAR...BE A Resource's largest fundraising event of the year. The Western-inspired evening supports the group's work providing essential resources, comfort and dignity to at-risk and CPS-involved children and their caretakers across Greater Houston.

People can enjoy food, an open bar, live music, a magician performance, silent and live auctions, a wine and liquor pull, bandana embroidery, and more. Attire can range from Western wear and boots to cocktail attire and stilettos. 6:30 pm.

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