Dr. Robert G. O’Meally, renowned literary scholar, author, curator and musical historian, reflects on the intellectual contribution of Robert Farris Thompson and the broader genealogy of the study of Afro-diasporic arts. For Prof. O’Meally, Thompson represents a complete interruption in the way the African diaspora is conceptualized. Dr. Courtney Bryan, MacArthur Award winning scholar, pianist and composer, will present her interdisciplinary orchestral work Visual Rhythms, inspired by works of art from the personal collection of Robert G. O’Meally.  Featured artists include Romare Bearden, Norman Lewis, Alfred Smith, John Abbot, Herman Leonard, Petra Richterová and Frank Stewart.