Above: Untitled, Miami, Florida, 1970, printed 2018, Gordon Parks (American, 1912–2006), gelatin silver print. The Dean Collection, courtesy of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys © The Gordon Parks Foundation.
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) is set to showcase Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys, a groundbreaking exhibition highlighting the transformative contributions of Black artists to contemporary art. The exhibition runs from November 22, 2025, through March 1, 2026.
Featuring approximately 130 works by nearly 40 influential artists, Giants spans from iconic 20th-century figures to emerging talent shaping today’s art landscape. Visitors will also encounter unique artifacts from Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys’ early non-art collecting, including music albums, instruments, BMX bikes, and other cultural memorabilia.
The exhibition underscores the Deans’ commitment to supporting living artists and fostering creative communities, particularly among artists of color. It also celebrates the profound influence Black artists have had on contemporary art and art history.
VMFA, rooted in a city and state rich with African American history, continues its mission to amplify diverse voices in the arts. Giants fosters meaningful dialogue about representation, creativity, and resilience while celebrating the beauty and joy within global communities.
For the latest updates and ticket information for Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys, visit www.VMFA.museum
