"We are honored to celebrate that legacy by showcasing an extraordinary collection from diverse artists whose works embody the deep connection between jazz and abstract art. Partnering with the Petrucci Family Foundation has allowed us to bring these dynamic voices and stories to our community. We are thrilled that guests will experience them through this exhibition." Demecina Beehn, MGM Resorts Director of Art and Culture
Photography and written by Isabel M. Castro
The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA) in Las Vegas recently unveiled its latest exhibition, American Duet: Jazz & Abstract Art, a vibrant celebration of the dynamic relationship between two groundbreaking art forms. This exhibit, on display through June 1, 2025, brings together over 61 works by 34 modern and contemporary artists, curated from the esteemed Petrucci Family Foundation Collection of African American Art.
The grand opening reception offered guests, patrons, and sponsors an unforgettable evening. Attendees were welcomed with a program of delectable hors d'oeuvres, handcrafted cocktails, and live demonstrations. Al Johnson, one of the featured artists, painted Here's to Life (2024) live in the studio installation, while a soulful performance by vocalist Elisa Fiorillo and pianist Patrick Hogan brought the spirit of jazz to life. Event organizers' Welcoming remarks and a focus on MGM Resorts' commitment to inclusion and representation in the arts set the tone for the evening.
The exhibition invites art lovers and the public to explore the shared creative spirit of jazz and abstract art. Each work speaks to the improvisational energy and expressive depth that connect these two forms. Guests can immerse themselves in bold, colorful pieces that transform sound into color and rhythm into visual form, celebrating the boundless creativity of African American artists and their enduring contributions to cultural innovation.
In the early 20th century, two revolutionary art forms began their parallel journeys. Jazz, born in the soulful rhythms and melodies of African American communities, filled smoky clubs and city streets with improvised brilliance. At the same time, abstract art emerged as a daring visual language, breaking free from traditional constraints to convey emotion and ideas beyond words.
Although they arose in different realms, jazz, and abstract art converged through their shared pursuit of freedom and expression. Jazz musicians crafted complex, pulsating rhythms, while abstract artists mirrored this energy with bold strokes and vivid hues. Together, they created a new artistic dialogue—a duet between sound and sight—that resonated with the human spirit and revolutionized the cultural landscape.
The works in American Duet capture the essence of jazz within the framework of abstract art, forming a visual symphony of harmonies, melodies, and improvisation. Each piece reflects the unique perspective of the artist while contributing to the broader evolution of abstract art in the United States.
Al Johnson, a celebrated African American expressionist, brings his cosmic abstractions and multimedia expertise to the exhibit. His live-painted piece, Here’s to Life (2024), created at BGFA, is a standout feature.
Richard Mayhew, a former jazz singer turned expressionist painter, channels his interior world into "mindscapes," imaginary landscapes filled with harmonious tones and spiritual depth rooted in his African American and Native American heritage.
The legendary Beauford Delaney, a prominent figure of the Harlem Renaissance, leaves an indelible mark with his vibrant contributions to modern art.
John Dowell, a master printmaker, offers his White Paintings (1976–1990), where seemingly simple white surfaces reveal intricate, flowing marks and flashes of color that echo the rhythm of jazz.
Former fashion designer turned printmaker Mavis Pusey gained recognition for her abstract works featured in major U.S. museums. She also influenced generations of artists.
Mickalene Thomas, celebrated for her elaborate mixed-media pieces, uses rhinestones, acrylic, and enamel to explore the complexities of Black and female identity.
An innovative abstract artist, Sam Gilliam transformed the medium with his draped, unsupported canvases, creating jazz-inspired collages that reflect the genre's improvisational spirit.
During his studies in Mexico, Sam Middleton, who transitioned from social realism to abstract expressionism, became a prominent figure in the European art scene.
Xenobia Bailey, an ethnomusicologist and artist, brings a funky, rhythmic energy to her large-scale crochet mandalas, inspired by 1970s aesthetics.
The exhibition also features a wide range of other influential artists, including Xenobia Bailey, McArthur Binion, Robert Blackburn, Moe Brooker, Charles Burwell, Adger Cowans, Beauford Delaney, John Dowell, Herbert Gentry, Sam Gilliam, Bernard Harmon, Felrath Hines, Ed Hughes, Bill Hutson, Al Johnson, Femi Johnson, Paul Keene, G. Farrel Kellum, MaPó Kinnord, Norman Lewis, Alvin D. Loving Jr., Ulysses Marshall, Richard Mayhew, Tim McFarlane, Sam Middleton, Mavis Pusey, Charles Searles, Merton Simpson, Anthony Smith Jr., Vincent D. Smith, Nelson Stevens, Mickalene Thomas, Pheoris West and Michael Kelly Williams.
Together, their works underscore MGM Resorts’ commitment to championing underrepresented voices in the art world.
Visitors can also experience an immersive entry installation inspired by Herbert Gentry's artwork, "Carnival" (1983). This colorful backdrop features jewel-toned shapes, providing a striking photo opportunity beneath a neon-lit sign that invites guests to capture their memorable moments.
Another interactive feature allows participants to interpret sound as color, selecting hues corresponding to musical samples. A curated playlist accompanies the exhibition, providing an audible journey through jazz's rich, rhythmic world.
The public is encouraged to attend American Duet: Jazz & Abstract Art, which is more than an exhibition; it celebrates innovation, collaboration, and the enduring legacy of African American artists and musicians. Through the vibrant interplay of sound and sight, this groundbreaking collection invites visitors to experience the transformative power of art in all its forms.
The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art is a premier exhibition space located in the heart of the Bellagio Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. Spanning 2,600 square feet, the gallery offers an intimate experience for visitors. Since its opening in 1998, it has featured exhibitions showcasing artworks and objects from renowned museums and private collections around the world.
American Duet is on display daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art at the Casino level of the Bellagio through June 1, 2025. Last admissions are sold 30 minutes prior to closing time. Daily docent-led tours are held at 11 a.m. for an additional fee. For further information, call (702) 693-7871 or (877) 957-9777 or visit www.bellagio.com/bgfa.
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