Lincoln University Showcases Florene Dawkins’ Art Legacy with New Exhibition and Historic Donation

The Lincoln University community celebrated the arts during its Centennial Homecoming at the Florene C. Dawkins Art Collective Exhibit II. From left to right, LU Vice President for University Advancement Grant Winrow, Florene Dawkins and President John Moseley.

Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) alumna Florene Calvin Dawkins ’77 returned to campus on October 31 for the Florene C. Dawkins Art Collective Exhibit II, an event celebrating her recent donation of 138 pieces of art, rare books and manuscripts to the university. The exhibition, held in the Dorothy E. Steward Art Gallery inside the Richardson Fine Arts Center, drew students, faculty, alumni and community members for an afternoon of creativity and reflection.

Among those attending the event was Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, who joined university leaders and guests in viewing the collection and recognizing the significance of Dawkins’ contribution.

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe talks with LU alumni and guests at the event.

The exhibition featured a wide range of works from Dawkins’ private collection, including an original painting by John Biggers titled Africa, a 1930s African birthing chair and rare African sculptures. The collection also includes modern pieces by artists such as John Sims and LaKendra Huckaby, showcasing both historical and contemporary perspectives on African and African American art.

Dawkins’ donation represents more than five decades of collecting and curating art from around the world. Her gift will help advance Lincoln University’s goal of establishing an African American Art Museum on campus, expanding access to cultural and educational experiences for students and the surrounding community.

Lincoln University President John Moseley addresses guests at the Florene C. Dawkins Art Exhibit II. 

The October 31 event coincided with Lincoln University’s centennial homecoming celebration and served as a highlight of the week’s activities. Guests explored the exhibition, which reflected Dawkins’ lifelong commitment to education, cultural preservation and community engagement.

From left to right: Student Curator Kathleen Dake, Professor Colleen Smith, President John Moseley, Florene Dawkins, Governor Mike Kehoe, Dr. David Nyaberi, Student Curator Damya McElroy, Student Curator Anneus Riggs and Dr. Grant Winrow. 

The Florene C. Dawkins Art Collective Exhibit II stands as a milestone for Lincoln University, marking both a celebration of artistic achievement and a lasting contribution to the university’s cultural legacy.

Click here to view more photos from the Florene C. Dawkins Art Collective Exhibit II.