A Sesquicentennial Masterpiece: AAMU Partners with Legendary Artist Charles Bibbs

The Alabama A&M University 150th Anniversary Arts and Culture Committee has announced an extraordinary collaboration with internationally acclaimed artist Charles Bibbs, introducing a specially commissioned original artwork that will commemorate the institution’s historic sesquicentennial year. The unveiling of the piece is scheduled to take place during the University’s 150th Anniversary Closing Ceremony in December, marking a milestone moment that fuses the legacy of an HBCU giant with the vision of one of America’s most celebrated artists.

Charles Bibbs is a legendary figure in contemporary African American fine art. Known for his distinctive style that blends realism with abstract motifs, Bibbs’ works celebrate heritage, strength, and resilience. His pieces are widely collected and showcased in galleries and museums around the world. With masterful use of line, texture, and symbolism, Bibbs has created an artistic language that speaks powerfully to cultural identity while transcending generations.

His partnership with Alabama A&M University represents the intersection of visual storytelling and institutional legacy—an artistic narrative that captures both the rich heritage and bold future of the University.

The Artwork and Its Availability
The commissioned piece will honor Alabama A&M’s 150-year journey, encapsulating the University’s history, mission, and community impact in a vibrant visual tapestry. To extend access to this historic work, the Arts and Culture Committee will offer multiple formats, including:

• Remarques – exclusive limited editions featuring original hand-drawn enhancements by Bibbs, making each piece unique.
• Giclée prints – museum-quality reproductions on fine art paper or canvas, offering exceptional fidelity to the original work.
• Offset prints – widely accessible editions designed to bring this commemorative artwork into the homes of alumni, friends, and supporters.
Each medium provides collectors with a rare opportunity to own a work of art that embodies both the timeless creativity of Charles Bibbs and the enduring legacy of Alabama A&M University.

The introduction of this artwork is more than a cultural milestone—it is also a philanthropic initiative. Proceeds from the sales will directly benefit Alabama A&M University, advancing scholarships, campus enhancements, and the mission-driven work of the institution.
Perry Caudle, Jr., Committee Member of the Arts and Culture Committee, reflected on the significance of this moment. 

“This project is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Caudle. "Charles Bibbs has created a visual masterpiece that tells the story of Alabama A&M’s 150 years of triumph, growth, and cultural pride. We are thrilled to share this with our community and to know that every piece collected also supports the University’s future.”

Committee member Thomas Colvin echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the unique artistic and historical value. 

“Mr. Bibbs has a rare ability to capture heritage through fine art," said Colvin. "This commissioned work will be remembered not only as a celebration of Alabama A&M’s sesquicentennial but as a lasting contribution to the broader canon of African American art. It’s an invitation for alumni, supporters, and art collectors everywhere to become part of that legacy.”

The unveiling ceremony in December will mark the formal introduction of the artwork to the public, closing Alabama A&M’s 150th Anniversary celebrations with a symbolic and creative flourish. For alumni, art collectors, and cultural enthusiasts alike, this collaboration between Alabama A&M University and Charles Bibbs represents an unparalleled opportunity to engage with fine art while supporting the mission of a historic HBCU. Details regarding the purchase of exclusive, limited-edition prints of the original artworks will be made available during the unveiling ceremony.

This collaboration between Alabama A&M University and Charles Bibbs represents an unparalleled opportunity to engage in fine art while supporting the mission of a historic HBCU.