Edward Mitchell Bannister, born in Saint Andrews in 1828, became one of the most successful and celebrated American artists of the 19th century, despite his works being largely unknown in his home province. Today, his art is considered a prime example of the era’s finest, with pieces regularly selling for tens of thousands of dollars at auctions. Yet, for many in New Brunswick, Bannister’s legacy remains hidden—until now.

The Owens Art Gallery in Sackville has launched an exhibition titled “Hidden Blackness” to bring Bannister’s extraordinary art to a Canadian audience for the first time. This exhibition marks the first major presentation of Bannister’s works in Canada, over a century after his death in 1901. While some of his pieces have been displayed at the New Brunswick Museum, this new show is the most significant exploration of his life and artistry in his home country.

Bannister was not only known for his remarkable art but also for his passionate advocacy against slavery and his efforts to improve the lives of African-Americans. He was recognized for his diverse range of work, from portraits and figure studies to the landscapes and seascapes he is most famous for. Charmaine Nelson, a provost professor of art history at the University of Massachusetts, emphasized his versatility, noting that Bannister’s self-taught approach made him stand out in an era where racial and educational barriers were immense.

In 1876, Bannister won a prestigious prize at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition for his painting “Under the Oaks”. His submission was distinctive, as he only provided his name, avoiding a CV. The judges assumed he was white, and when Bannister arrived to claim his award, they initially tried to retract it. Protests from other artists led to him receiving the prize he deserved, highlighting the racial prejudices he faced.

Nine of the works featured in the “Hidden Blackness” exhibition are on loan from the Smithsonian, which houses over 100 of Bannister’s pieces. Gwen Manthey, a conservator at the Smithsonian, praised Bannister’s artistry and described the privilege of being able to transport and study his works. Manthey personally ensured the safe delivery of the paintings from Washington, D.C., to Sackville.

The exhibition, which also includes works from various Canadian museums, private collections, and Bannister’s childhood sketches, is curated by David Woods. It runs until April 6 at the Owens Art Gallery, providing an opportunity for Canadians to discover the hidden legacy of one of the most important artists of his time.

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  New Brunswick