Diagnosed with AIDS in 1997, Brooklyn-based self-taught artist Reverend Joyce McDonald had for decades battled drug addiction, sexual and domestic violence and suicidal depression. Following her AIDS diagnosis, an art therapy program at the Jewish Board of Family Services introduced her to clay-making. Soon after, she was connected to Visual AIDS, a community of artists living with HIV. Since, she has created a multitude of largely autobiographical poignant and heartfelt sculptures of figures reflecting survival, love and healing.
Curated by Kyle Croft, Executive Director of Visual AIDS, in collaboration with the Bronx Museum, Ministry: Reverend Joyce McDonald, the artist’s first museum exhibition, is a testament to Reverend Joyce McDonald‘s resilience, spirituality and humanity, along with her intuitive art-making skills.
The stirring image featured above, “Covered with Love,” was fashioned in 2003 with acrylic and fabric on air-dry clay. Several more images showcased in this remarkable exhibition follow:
“Safe in His Arms,” 2021, Acrylic, paper towel, glitter, and varnish on air-dry clay
“Beauty in the Midst (Outer Strength)” 2023, Oil on glazed ceramic
“Peace,” 2004 Clay, wood frame, fabric, Mod Podge, and fabric paint on canvas board
“Priceless Parent Protection,” 2020 Acrylic, paper, and chain on air-dry clay
“My Dad, My Hero (Willie McDonald),” 1998, House paint, Mod Podge on air-dry clay, and artist’s father’s shirt and camera
“Untitled,” 2021, Glass beads and acrylic on glazed ceramic on found ceramic
Information on programs related to the exhibition, along with opportunities to create art, can be found here. Also available at no cost in the museum’s lobby is a delightful family guide to the exhibition brimming with information and suggested activities.
Located at 1040 Grand Concourse, the Bronx Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is always free.
Photos by Lois Stavsky and Tara Murray
