Virtual Symposium: The History of Diverse Artists in the White House Collection

On November 20, 2020, First Lady Melania Trump unveiled a new addition to the east end of the Rose Garden. The sculpture, Floor Frame, was made in 1962 by renowned artist Isamu Noguchi. It was acquired by the White House Historical Association, and is considered the first piece of art by an Asian American artist acquired for the permanent White House Collection.

Today, the White House Historical Association, the Japan Society, and the Portland Japanese Garden, will present a half-day symposium to commemorate this historic occasion. After an introduction by Stewart D. McLaurin, President of the White House Historical Association, the first panel will discuss diversity in museums and the White House Collection, and features Dr. Gwendolyn DuBois Shaw of the National Portrait Gallery; Nikki Pisha of the White House Office of the Curator; and Lina Mann of the White House Historical Association, and moderated by the Association’s Senior Historian, Dr. Matthew Costello.

This session will be followed by two presentations. The first is with Timothy Harleth, Chief Usher of the White House, and Nikki Pisha from the Rose Garden. The second is of First Lady Melania Trump’s remarks at the unveiling ceremony.

Then a second panel will discuss Noguchi’s life and legacy, as well as his international and global influence. This panel will feature Dakin Hart, from the Isamu Noguchi Foundation and Garden Museum; Yukie Kamiya, from Japan Society Gallery; and Akihito Nakanishi, from the Portland Japanese Garden, and moderated by Dr. Joshua Walker, President and CEO of Japan Society. Closing remarks will be presented by Stewart D. McLaurin, President of the White House Historical Association.

Please enjoy this informative program about the History of Diverse Artists in the White House Collection.