'United We Stand' sculpture by Charles McGee, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, Detroit, Michigan

© Jim West/Alam

Say it loud. Black History Month

Though we are nearing the end of Black History Month, the legacy of Black artists stands tall throughout the year. Today we are highlighting the works of Charles McGee, a painter, sculptor, and educator from Detroit, whose works are found all over the Motor City. The 20-foot-tall sculpture seen here, 'United We Stand,' represents themes of togetherness, unity, and balance and sits outside the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. McGee's pieces, which he produced up until his death in 2021, often feature abstract collections of lines, patterns, and allusions to nature, either in striking black and white or vibrant colors. He is one of many Black artists who have left an indelible mark on the great canvas of American art, along with others such as Joshua Johnson, Edmonia Lewis, Jacob Lawrence, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kara Walker, and Kehinde Wiley.