News Release — September 20, 1999

"Tales of Aunt Dicy: John Biggers' Drawings for the Folktale"

This exhibition features drawings by well-known Houston artist John Biggers. Done in 1955 to accompany J. Mason Brewer's rendition of the African-American folktale Tales of Aunt Dicy, the drawings tell the story of an endearing women whose struggle to maintain her right to dip snuff leads her through a series of humorous encounters. These powerful drawings represent an important period in Biggers's artistic development.

The exhibition opens September 15 and runs through January 15, 2000. Free and open to the public, Tales of Aunt Dicy is being held in the 4th floor gallery of the Ransom Center, located on the northeast corner of 21st and Guadalupe Streets. Hours are 9-5 Monday-Friday; and 9-7 on Thursday.

Related Events

Saturday and Sunday, September 25 and 26
In conjunction with The University of Texas' Black Alumni Reunion, the exhibition will be open Saturday and Sunday, September 25 and 26, from 10-6.

Sunday, September 26; Press Only
A reception honoring Mr. Biggers will be held on the Ransom Center's outdoor plaza from 2-4 p.m. Mr. Biggers will be in attendance for a question and answer session following remarks by University of Texas President Larry R. Faulkner. The reception is supported in part by The Texas Commission on the Arts.

Sunday, October 10
In conjunction with Austin Museum Day, noted storyteller Marion Barnes will perform the folktale Aunt Dicy's Tales. The performance is scheduled for 2 p.m. in the Ransom Center's 4th floor gallery. A reception will follow. The performance is being co-sponsored by The Texas Commission on the Arts.