Feast, 1969
Explore the Romare Bearden Catalogue Raisonné Project
A groundbreaking scholarly resource chronicling Bearden’s transformative unique works from 1964–1969. Free and open to the world.
A Milestone in Art History
The Romare Bearden Catalogue Raisonné Project marks the first-ever digital catalogue raisonné of an African American artist—and only the second catalogue raisonné of any kind for an African American artist, with the first being over 25 years ago.
Developed by the Wildenstein Plattner Institute (WPI) in partnership with the Romare Bearden Foundation, the initial release focuses on Bearden’s pivotal collage period between 1964 to 1969, showcasing extensive research on over 200 works alongside archival documents and photographs from the Romare Bearden Foundation’s collection.
It is an unprecedented resource for scholars, curators, educators and art lovers everywhere.
“This is the moment when he establishes himself as a master of collage, the medium for which he is most remembered. Using this method, he developed a compelling mode of Black figuration that resonates with audiences to this day.”
—Dr. Camara Dia Holloway, Project Manager, Wildenstein Plattner Institute
What Is a Catalogue Raisonné—and Why Does It Matter?
A catalogue raisonné is the definitive, scholarly record of an artist’s complete body of work. Historically, these resources have been inaccessible and costly. Bearden’s project, in partnership with the Wildenstein Plattner Institute, is fully digital and free to the public.
This initiative dramatically expands access to Bearden’s legacy and sets a new standard for equity and inclusion in art scholarship.
“This catalogue raisonné is something we’ve envisioned for a long time. It’s a powerful tool—not just for preserving Romare’s legacy, but for expanding access to his work and ensuring future generations can study, engage with, and be inspired by it. For Black artists especially, projects like this are essential.”
— Diedra Harris-Kelley, Co-Director, Romare Bearden Foundation
Collaborating with the Wildenstein Plattner Institute
The Romare Bearden Foundation and the WPI have partnered to ensure this ambitious project strengthens Bearden’s legacy is discoverable to a global audience.
Our joint mission is to inspire, educate and connect communities worldwide through the art of Romare Bearden.
Join Us for a Special Live Conversation
Join art historian Dr. Jacqueline Francis for a special webinar exploring Bearden’s life and legacy, which provides insight into this important period of his career highlighted in the first installment of the catalogue raisonné.
🗓️ Date: Wednesday, June 25, 2025
🕕 Time: 2:00 pm EST
🎟️ Register to Attend
Don’t miss this unique event! Registration is free.
Support Bearden’s Legacy
The Bearden Foundation’s work does not stop here. We continue to safeguard Bearden’s archives, support emerging artists, and engage new generations through educational initiatives.
Help us celebrate, educate, and inspire.
👉 Spread the word!
Use #RomareBeardenCatalogueRaisonné and tag @beardenfoundation_official and @wpi_art on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.
For press inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact:
📧 info@beardenfoundation.org | bearden@wpi-art.org
🌐 beardenfoundation.org | wpi.art/
