The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is set to host a groundbreaking exhibition in March 2025, celebrating the vibrancy and power of Black artistry. “Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys” is more than an art show—it’s a testament to the vision and commitment of two cultural icons to uplifting Black voices in the art world.
This traveling exhibition, which launched earlier this year at New York’s Brooklyn Museum, brings together nearly 100 works from the private collection of Grammy-winning artist Alicia Keys and her husband, celebrated producer Swizz Beatz. The pieces represent a who’s who of Black diasporic creativity, featuring masters like Gordon Parks, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Lorna Simpson, alongside emerging voices shaping the future of art.
“This exhibit isn’t just about the works on the walls—it’s about legacy,” said Swizz Beatz, whose real name is Kasseem Dean. “It’s about showing the world the depth and brilliance of Black creativity.”
A Platform for Dialogue and Discovery
The Dean Collection, which includes more than 1,000 works, is renowned for its focus on living Black artists and its diversity of mediums—paintings, photography, textiles, and sculptures are all part of the mix. For Swizz and Alicia, collecting art has always been about more than aesthetics; it’s about creating opportunities for connection and conversation.
As the couple shared with NPR, “Giants” marks the first time they’ve seen so much of their collection displayed together. It’s a proud moment for them—and for the communities their work champions.
The exhibition, currently on view at Atlanta’s High Museum of Art, will take over Mia’s Target Gallery from March 9 through July 13, 2025.
A Space for All
While the collection represents the couple’s personal taste, it’s also an invitation to audiences of all backgrounds to explore themes of culture, identity, and resilience. “The Deans’ passion for supporting artists mirrors the importance of telling stories that resonate deeply within the Black diaspora,” said Mia representatives in a statement.
Tickets will be priced at $20, with free admission for Mia members and youth 17 and under, ensuring that the exhibit is accessible to a wide audience.
An Art Movement
From community-building to celebrating excellence, “Giants” is a reminder that Black art is a movement—not a moment. “It’s about showing the next generation what’s possible,” Alicia Keys once said about their collection.
When this show lands at Mia, it won’t just bring stunning visuals—it will carry the stories, struggles, and triumphs of Black creators to the heart of Minneapolis.
Mark your calendars: Tickets go on sale next year for what promises to be one of 2025’s most compelling cultural events.