Civil War exhibit a ‘must-see’

I recently traveled from Des Moines to attend the Civil War Symposium presented by the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and the African American Museum of Iowa. This was an incredible event for many reasons. First, to experience such a great collaboration of two of the city's leading cultural institutions was impressive. Second, to witness a national caliber presentation by a quartet of very knowledgeable presenters was a rare treat.

Directors Sean Ulmer and Tom Moore deserve high praise for their shared vision to create a powerful juncture of their missions through this event. Furthermore, bringing in such expertise - Will Stapp (photographic historian), Julia 'Judy” Norrell (collector and source of the exhibit's materials), Jackie Serwer (chief curator, National Museum of African American History and Culture, Smithsonian Institution), and Ken Lyftogt (author, historian) - demonstrated that forces in Cedar Rapids can very effectively unite to create exceptional, national-caliber cultural experiences. Special thanks goes to Dee Ann McIntyre, whose passion for bringing this show to Cedar Rapids was backed by her generosity.

The exhibit, 'Shadows of History: Photographs of the Civil War from the Collection of Julia J. Norrell,” is stunning and deeply thought-provoking. It will remain on display until Jan. 18. The symposium, alas, has passed, and many folks who undoubtedly would have been enthralled by the day's events missed a monumentally rewarding experience. This exhibit is a 'must-see” for everyone.

John Busbee

President/CEO, The Culture Buzz

Clive