In a show that will be on view throughout Black History Month in February, the University of New England Art Gallery in Portland opens "The Freedom Place Collection" with a reception and gallery talk Friday, Jan. 16.

Consisting of 52 works by five contemporary African American artists, the show was assembled by D.C.-based collectors Stuart Bloch and Ambassador Julia Chang Bloch. This is a carefully nuanced collection, each work playing off another and adding up to a sophisticated assemblage of contemporary fine art that represents a first-rate contribution to American art today.

The show highlights the work of Romare Bearden, Benny Andrews, Alma Woodsey Thomas, Richard Yarde and Robert Freeman. The subjects, mediums and messages chosen by the artists differ widely, incorporating color theory, collage, lithographs, oils and watercolors into the show. Many diverse elements are presented, from country figures to city scenes and from geometric designs to magical landscapes.

The name of the collection refers to a stop on the Underground Railroad located near where the Bloch's home, also named Freedom Place, stands today.

The show, which was previously on view a the Zenith Gallery in Washington D.C., remains up until March 15. The UNE Art Gallery is located on the Westbrook College Campus at 716 Stevens Ave., Portland. FMI visit www.une.edu/artgallery/freedom.asp.

Fri., Jan. 16
Conversation with the Collectors and artist Robert Freeman, 4-5 pm
Opening Reception, 5-7 pm
Both events are free and open to the public.