Permanent Collection by Thomas Gibbons February 7, 2010

Directed by Timothy Douglas With its extraordinary collection of works by Cezanne and Matisse, eccentric millionaire Alfred Morris art museum has long flourished in quiet obscurity. When its new African-American director discovers eight remarkable African sculptures tucked away in storage, he proposes to add them to the public galleries. Hes opposed by the foundations long-time education director, whos loyal to the late Dr. Morris idiosyncratic instructions that absolutely nothing be changed. Spurred on by a zealous journalist, the clash escalates into a bitter public struggle for control. Timothy Douglas (A Lesson Before Dying) directs a sophisticated, searing drama about art, race, perspectives, and journalism. The Chicago Sun-Times hailed Permanent Collection as provocative and hugely engaging. The Los Angeles Times called it intellectually chargedbeautifully balanced[it] treats a complicated and emotional issue without cheap conclusions.Blake's Take: I couldnt put this explosive, thought-provoking script down. Loosely based on events surrounding Philadelphias famed Barnes Foundation, it powerfully examines how much space literally and figuratively our society gives to African-Americans. Whats the cost of failing to view the world through anothers eyes?Featuring Jeff Allin, Jessica Frances Dukes, Susan Lynskey, Lawrence Redmond, Jewell Robinson, Craig Wallace