The Bernard and Shirley Kinsey Foundation for Art and Education

The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection is a national touring exhibit of authentic and rare art, artifacts, books, documents, and manuscripts that tell the often untold story of African-American achievement and contribution. It represents one of the largest such private collections, spanning 400 years of history. Education is a primary goal of The Kinsey Collection, and The Kinsey Foundation more broadly. This grant will support the ongoing general operations of The Kinsey Foundation, including development of classroom curriculum and programs for schools and community organizations in California, modeled after The Kinsey Foundation’s prior work with the Florida Department of Education—which has reached an estimated 3.4 million students—as well as development of an associated e-book.

Established in 2008, the Kinsey Foundation for Art and Education is one of the preeminent institutions dedicated to the research, interpretation, and presentation of the African American experience internationally. As a sought-after educational resource with nationwide institutional partnerships, kindergarten through college, the Kinsey Foundation assists academic and cultural institutions with increasing public awareness about African American history and culture. Its work is executed via The Kinsey African American Art and History Collection, a traveling exhibition that has been experienced by over 15 million people. The collection is comprised of rare primary source historical objects and artifacts dating from 1595 to present day, and fine art created by canonical African Americans artists from 1865 forward. This grant will provide general operating support.