The purpose of the Resource Site is to be a conduit and resource for collectors of African-American Art. Ultimately, however, we here at the Wasret Collection believe that black Art Work should be available and viewed by the masses. Thus, collectors…Show Your Art Work!

While there are various websites and mediums dedicated to showcase, advertise, and purchase African-American Art Work, to date there is no vehicle intended to gather information and inform collectors of the system that supports the creative process as well as collector’s efforts to collect. When this dynamic system functions correctly, Artist, Galleries, Museums, The Academy and Collectors all collaborate to play a vital role in fostering a comprehensive black visual aesthetic (Movement). Likewise, when this system is bankrupt, we see the creative process delayed, galleries unsure and insecure in their own facility, the Academy and Museums more virulent in their willingness to narrow “the Canon,” all resulting with collectors who must navigate through unnecessary complications to make confident acquisitions.

Our goal is to facilitate a virtual forum that provides collectors and others with a clearinghouse of information that is both informative and interactive. Website links for collector clubs, galleries, museums and educational institutions will be accessible to all members. Collectors who wish to show pieces of their collections in anonymity are welcome and encouraged to take part. Those collectors who wish to display selections, but wish to identify their ownership are more than welcome as well. Collectors who wish to sell selections, trade or announce their desire to purchase particular works are encouraged to communicate their desire in the Center. Although this site is geared toward collectors, artists are especially welcome, for some of the most comprehensive collections and valued Art Works are still maintained and owned by artists who created them.

Collecting black art is a serious and important endeavor. Collectors hold an important and active role in preserving, protecting and supporting the culture of the black worldview. Most importantly, collectors share the important responsibility for determining the monitory value of art. In the end, however, we are the just temporary custodians, who in reward for our maintenance receive the distinct pleasure of enjoying our collections while we hold them for future gatherers, custodians and generations to come. Please use and enjoy the services of the Wasret Collection. Remember: Show Your Art Work!

Sincerely,

Ipyana A. Wasret