David C. Driskell: A Pioneer Shaping African American Art Studies David C. Driskell (June 7, 1931 – April 1, 2020) was an American artist, scholar, and curator whose unwavering dedication to elevating African American art as a distinct field of study cemented his legacy as one of the foremost figures in contemporary visual culture. Recognized globally for his profound understanding of Black identity and artistic expression, Driskell’s influence extended far beyond the easel, shaping curricula and fostering dialogues about representation and cultural heritage. He held the distinguished Univer…