Though a psychology professor by training, Robert Steele’s interest in art collection landed him as director of the University of Maryland’s David C. Driskell Center, devoted to showcasing and developing African-American art and culture. A new grant from the Ford Foundation will allow the center broader outreach to the Washington community.

What’s your favorite piece in the Driskell Center’s permanent collection?

My personal favorites are by Jacob Lawrence and Romare Bearden. I would suspect that these two artists are probably celebrated among the best artists that America has produced. In terms of their talent and contribution, they transcended their identity as African-Americans and are seen simply as American artists.