The Columbus Museum is proud to announce the opening of Reckonings and Reconstructions: Southern Photography from The Do Good Fund, a landmark exhibition showcasing a compelling range of images that explore the diverse social, cultural, and historical narratives of the American South. The exhibition will be on view at COMU from October 19, 2024, to February 2, 2025.

Featuring 125 photographs by 73 artists, Reckonings and Reconstructions is the final venue in the national tour of The Do Good Fund’s collection, an expansive archive of Southern photography. The exhibition invites visitors to explore a profound range of themes, including land, labor, law and protest, food, ritual, and kinship. Through the lenses of a variety of contemporary and historical photographers, visitors will encounter both intimate and sweeping views of the South’s complex identity.

The Columbus Museum is honored to host the conclusion of this nationwide tour, offering a rare opportunity to experience a collection that captures the heart and soul of Southern life. From stark landscapes to portraits of resilience and community, these photographs reveal stories of reckoning and the ongoing reconstruction of Southern identity.

Featured Artists
This expansive exhibition includes works by celebrated photographers such as William Christenberry, Sheila Pree Bright, and Sally Mann, among many others. Each artist provides a unique perspective, capturing the rich tapestry of life in the American South—from the rhythms of rural landscapes to the tensions of civil rights movements, and the enduring power of family and community.

Museum Director’s Statement
"We are happy to bring this powerful exhibition to The Columbus Museum. Reckonings and Reconstructions gives us a chance to reflect on the past and present of the American South, exploring the complexities of our region through the medium of photography. The Do Good Fund has made an invaluable contribution to the understanding of Southern life and culture, and we are excited to share these stories with our community," said Marianne Richter, Director of The Columbus Museum.

Exhibition Programming
Throughout the exhibition’s run, the Museum will host a variety of public programs.

Third Thursday – Thursday, October 17 at 5:30 PM
Opening Exhibition Reception – Friday, October 18 at 5 PM
Rothschild Speaker Series: Jeffrey Richmond-Moll and Panel in Discussion– Saturday, October 19 at 3 PM

These events, and more to come will deepen the visitor experience, offering new insights into the art and themes on display.

For more information about the exhibition or to plan your visit, please visit comuga.org.