June 27, 2015 – September 27, 2015
During the 1970s and 1980s, Wilmingtonians witnessed a flourishing artistic community and the establishment of many of the cultural pillars that continue to support the visual and performing arts within the city today. Organizations such as the Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts, the Delaware Humanities Forum, and the Delaware Theatre Company were founded during this period, as well as commercial galleries and city-supported arts initiatives. This landmark exhibition will plot the development of artistic trends within the Wilmington community and their relation to national creative trends during these two decades, showcasing craft and design, drawing, painting, performance art, photography, and sculpture. A comprehensive publication and a rich program of dance, film, music, and theatre will accompany the exhibition.
A major component of the exhibition is the oral history project funded in part by a grant from the Delaware Humanities Forum. Between August 2010 and January 2014 interviews were conducted with 63 individuals—artists, musicians, arts advocates, and former politicians—whose activities impacted the contemporary art scene in Wilmington in the 1970s and 1980s. Click here for transcriptions of these interviews.
Celebrate the first weekend of summer and the opening of Dream Streets: Art in Wilmington 1970–1990! Guests will sample delicious tastings from popular restaurants that emerged in Wilmington in the 1970s and 1980s, as well as newer establishments. Live music will be provided by Sin City Band, which was formed in 1974, and the recently formed indie band Teen Men.
Tastings courtesy of:
Walter’s Steakhouse
Buckley’s Tavern
Bistro Jacques
8th & Union Kitchen
RSVP by June 19 at events@delart.org or 302.351.8506.
Due to construction in the area, parking may be limited. Parking attendants will be on hand for the event. Please follow detour signs.
Dream Streets Catalogue On Sale Now!
A comprehensive catalogue for the exhibition brings together key artists, historians, and writers—Joyce Brabner, Dr. James E. Newton, and Rick Rothrock, among others—to document Wilmington’s creative community during the 1970s and 1980s. Paperback, 100 Pages.
MUSEUM MEMBERS – Call the Museum Store to reserve your copy of the Dream Streets catalogue. Your reserved copy will be available at the Preview Party. Members receive a 10% off the $36.00 cover price. It is also available for purchase online.
