Telfair Museums announced today that Gwendolyn Glover Starks has been sworn in as the 2015-2016 president of the museum’s Friends of African American Arts (FAAA) member group.  Friends of African American Arts’ stated mission is to raise public awareness and to promote the appreciation and development of art created by African Americans. The group also promotes the private acquisition of African American artworks for Telfair Museums and supports the mission of the museum. 

“I am delighted that Gwendolyn Glover Starks has accepted the office of president of the Friends of African American Arts,” said Telfair Museums Director and CEO Lisa Grove.  “Gwen’s background, vision, and passion for art will be vital in building on the good work of outgoing president Fran Lowery-Wilson.  Telfair Museums embodies a strong commitment to African American art and to offering art of all genres to our community.  I look forward to working closely with Gwen to expand our existing efforts.”

Starks plans to strengthen FAAA as an auxiliary, supporting Telfair Museums on a range of issues and initiatives.  “I am excited about the opportunities for all varieties of art to be shown and represented at Telfair Museums,” said Starks. “I believe that Telfair Museums continues to have a major role to play within all communities of Savannah and the southeast United States.  As president of FAAA, I will collaborate with Telfair staff to broaden the influence of the museum and support its activities in ways that will make African American art an integral part of the museum’s presence and portfolio.”

Starks is married to Philip W. Starks, who is a sculptor as well as a member of Friends of African American Arts.  The couple moved to Savannah from Chicago in 1999. Starks holds a Masters’ Degree in Urban Studies.  She has served on the Board of the Beach Institute and served two terms as President of Capitol City Bank Toastmasters.