2013 Medal Award Honoring Glenn Ligon

On May 20, 2013, SMFA honored Glenn Ligon with the SMFA Medal. Ligon is known for his resonant works in multiple media that explore issues surrounding race, sexuality, representation and language. He frequently uses evocative text, quotations from culturally charged and historically relevant material by writers such as James Baldwin, Jean Genet and Zora Neale Hurston, both as a source of imagery and a means of addressing the politics of representation.

Watch Glenn Ligon's "Art: 21" video

The SMFA Medal is awarded annually to individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the art world, and recognizes their commitment to diversifying and communicating with the world through art. The gala—which includes cocktails, dinner and a silent auction—raises crucial funds for scholarships and educational opportunities for SMFA students.