‘2024 David C. Driskell Prize Awarded to Naomi Beckwith’

Naomi Beckwith Awarded David C. Driskell Prize by Atlanta’s High Museum of Art

Atlanta’s High Museum of Art has proudly announced Naomi Beckwith as the esteemed recipient of this year’s David C. Driskell Prize. This prestigious award, established in 2005, honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the field of African American art and art history.

Beckwith currently serves as the deputy director and Jennifer and David Stockman chief curator at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation and Museum, where she has been a member since 2018. Prior to this role, she held curatorial positions at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago, where she curated notable exhibitions, including Howardena Pindell’s first survey, along with group and solo shows featuring artists like Leslie Hewitt, Jimmy Robert, and Yinka Shonibare. In addition to her curatorial work, Beckwith has conducted extensive research and published works focusing on Black identity and culture, exploring the artistic practices of prominent figures such as Arthur Jafa, Rashid Johnson, Howardena Pindell, Jimmy Robert, and Lynette Yiadom-Boakye.

Expressing her gratitude for being selected for the Driskell Prize, Beckwith stated, ‘I am equal parts elated and humbled to receive the Driskell Prize. Previous recipients are my mentors, my models, and my inspiration, and I am truly honored to be included in this illustrious cohort and contribute to our shared mission of making the most expansive art history imaginable.’

The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on April 26 at the High Museum of Art. This recognition highlights Beckwith’s significant impact on the art world and reinforces her dedication to promoting diverse voices and perspectives in the field of art and art history.