William Sidney Arnett

Place: Toronto

Born: 1939

Death: 2020

Biography:

William Sidney Arnett, a renowned Canadian artist and art collector, left an indelible mark on the world of art. Born in 1939, Arnett's life was a testament to his passion for preserving and promoting African, Asian, and African American art.

Early Life and Career

Arnett's early life was marked by a deep interest in art, which led him to become a writer, editor, curator, and art collector. He built internationally important collections of African, Asian, and African American art, which are now considered some of the most significant in the world.

Founding of Souls Grown Deep Foundation

Arnett was the founder and chairman of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, an organization dedicated to the preservation and documentation of African American art from the Deep South. This foundation has been instrumental in promoting the work of African American artists, including Martha Jane Pettway Tucker, who created a remarkable quilt that showcases the unique cultural heritage of Gee's Bend, Alabama. Arnett worked in coordination with leading museums and scholars to produce groundbreaking exhibitions and publications using his extensive holdings. His efforts produced 13 books with nearly 100 essays by 73 authors, and thirty-eight museums have hosted major exhibitions. Comprehensive archives are maintained at UNC Chapel Hill, and the White House has shown the collection.

Exhibitions and Lectures

Arnett exhibited works from these collections and delivered lectures at over 100 museums and educational institutions in the United States and abroad. He is perhaps best known for writing about and collecting the work of African American artists from the Deep South. Arnett was named one of the '100 Most Influential Georgians' by Georgia Trend Magazine in January 2015.

Legacy

Arnett's legacy continues to be felt through his contributions to the art world. His work has been recognized by The Arnot Art Museum, which is a significant art museum in the United States. The museum was established in 1913 and has an impressive collection of European and American paintings. Arnett's efforts have also been recognized by Wikioo.org, which provides beautiful images on canvas for art lovers. Wikioo.org works to product high-quality prints that look just like the original work, making it easier for people to own a piece of art without having to pay a fortune.

• Arnett's collections include works by Frederick Horsman Varley, a renowned Canadian artist.
• His foundation has been instrumental in promoting the work of African American artists, including Martha Jane Pettway Tucker.
• Arnett's legacy continues to be felt through his contributions to the art world, including his work with The Arnot Art Museum and Wikioo.org.

works by Arnett have been exhibited at museums around the world, including The Robert McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa, Canada. His legacy will continue to be felt for generations to come. Arnett passed away on August 12, 2020, but his contributions to the art world will never be forgotten. His work will continue to inspire and educate people around the world, and his legacy will remain a testament to his passion for preserving and promoting African, Asian, and African American art.