Symbolism, Struggle, History and the Art of Kevin Cole

Many of the paintings, drawings and sculptures of Kevin Cole address the lives and struggles of African Americans in the South - drawing from themes of historical and societal import, including voting rights, family life and faith.

Some 50 of these works are now on display at the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) Arts Program Gallery in Adelphi, Maryland, in an exhibition titled Pushing Forward: Politics, Social Conflict and the Racial Divide in the Art of Kevin Cole.

"The language of Cole's artwork carries a deeper message for the viewer," said Eric Key, director of the Arts Program at UMGC. "His work relates thoughtful stories and histories that reflect important issues in our society while also evoking a response from the viewer."

The show runs through Jan. 5, and can be viewed alongside UMGC's permanent collection, which includes works by Andy Warhol, Herman Maril, Grace Hartigan, Joyce Scott, Gladys Goldstein, Raoul Middleman, Joseph Sheppard, Jacob Lawrence, Sam Gilliam, Paul Reed, Alma Thomas, Samella Lewis, and David Driskell.