Charles Boyd: Art Collector & Detroit’s Art Scene Champion

Boyd’s journey as a collector started in earnest in 2004, when he inherited art from his dad, including an item by Romare Bearden. His collection began to grow considerably a few years later and currently consists of jobs by much of one of the most vital Black American musicians working today– among them the professional photographer Ming Smith (a fellow Michigander and Howard graduate), Kerry James Marshall, Titus Kaphar, Deborah Roberts and Sanford Biggers.

Boyd’s Art Collection Origins

Charles Boyd, a prominent cosmetic surgeon based in Michigan, is deeply ingrained in the Detroit art scene. He is the chair of the board at the Gallery of Contemporary Art Detroit and offers on the board of the Detroit Institute of Arts. His support for the arts extends to New york city, where he serves on the acquisitions board of the Studio Gallery in Harlem.

Howard University’s Influence

Boyd’s enthusiasm for aesthetic art was sparked during his years as a trainee at Howard University in Washington, DC, in the 1980s, when he took an art-appreciation program focused on African American art. He consequently offered on Howard’s board of trustees and, at one factor, chaired its art committee.

Charles Boyd: The very first work I ever purchased was a sculptural work with a see to Côte d’Ivoire. I am told that it is much better than the one in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts by the gallery’s African art curator.