As Gantt Center turns 50, its new CEO focuses on Black culture, arts and social justice
The new president of the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture in Charlotte plans to “focus on arts, cultural and education experiences,” just as the center turns 50 next year.
Bonita Buford, who has been chief operating officer for the Gantt since 2015, will take the helm as president and CEO on Jan. 1. Buford succeeds David Taylor, who is retiring Dec. 31 after 14 years at the uptown center.
“The Gantt serves as ‘brave space’ telling African-American and African diaspora stories through exhibitions and programs,” Buford said in a statement Friday, “and a ‘safe space’ where the community can explore and engage with African-American culture.”
Buford’s work at the center goes back nearly 20 years.
In 2005, she was a consultant for then-named Afro-American Cultural Center. Six years later she was named director of communications and operations.
“We have witnessed Bonita’s impactful leadership of many initiatives and multiple departments and we can think of no one better to lead our institution,” Jim Dunn, chairman of the Gantt’s Board of Directors, said in a statement.
Buford’s top priorities for the Gantt
Buford has several initiatives she plans to build on at the Gantt, according the center.
One is in art. Buford plans to expand the center’s collection of artwork, as well as exhibitions of established and emerging artists. That includes supporting regional artists through the Gantt’s inaugural Black Carolina Artist Residence, which includes five Carolina-based artists featured in January, according to the center.
Technology and innovations is another focus by broadening digital arts programs and resources for students and adults.
But the foundation of the Gantt revoilves around initiatives for social justice, according to the center. The Gantt uses the arts to “explore social issues, heighten public awareness on issues of opportunity and equip the next generation.”
Buford’s background
Buford earned a mathematics degree from Spelman College and chemical engineering degree from Georgia Tech. Her career in engineering led her to work in Europe and Asia.
In 2002, Buford took a position in marketing and project management for a nonprofit, with clients including the Gantt. She designed and managed special events, such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s visit to Charlotte in 2005, the Gantt center’s annual fundraiser, and the Founders Society Gala in 2009.
As COO, Buford directed the Gantt’s creative department, including its educational and public programs, and was a liaison to the city of Charlotte.
About the Gantt Center
The Gantt was founded in 1974 by two UNC Charlotte professors — Bertha Maxwell Roddey and the late Mary Harper — with a small collection focusing on children and emerging artists on the second level of Spirit Square.
It is now housed in a four-story, 46,490-square-foot building at 551 S. Tryon St. The gallery is named for Harvey Gantt, Charlotte’s first Black mayor and the first African-American student at Clemson University.
Next year, the center will mark its 50th anniversary with a yearlong celebration. “
Gantt Golden Year: Pure Gold Celebrations Throughout 2024,” schedule will feature public programs, talks, exhibitions, concerts and performances that will include local, national and international creators who reflect on the past and envision the future.
This story was originally published December 19, 2023 at 3:15 PM with the headline "As Gantt Center turns 50, its new CEO focuses on Black culture, arts and social justice."