College Park, MD — David C. Driskell, a retired University of Maryland College Park professor, has died after testing positive for the coronavirus according to a statement released by school officials.
Driskell joined the university’s Department of Art in 1977 and taught there for over 2 decades until his retirement in 1998. He has been known as a distinguished professor, artist, collector, curator, and art historian.
“A towering figure in the art world, he transformed the field of African American art through his scholarship, innovation, and humanity, showing how it is essential to the American art canon,” Loh added.
In 2000, he was awarded the National Humanities Medal by President Clinton. In 2001, the university established the David C. Driskell Center for the Study of Visual Arts and Culture of African Americans and the African Diaspora to honor his work.
Driskell is survived by his wife and his 2 daughters. He also leaves behind a legacy to his students whom he mentored and taught to become successful in their careers in arts.
Meanwhile, the university further reiterated the importance of social distancing and other safety measures as well as showing resilience, determination, and compassion especially during this time of coronavirus pandemic.