Danny Simmons

For over four decades, Danny Simmons (b. 1953) has produced a body of work—spanning painting, assemblage, and works on paper—deeply informed by the spiritual traditions of indigenous and African cultures. As the architect of Neo-African Abstract Expressionism, Simmons reclaims traditional motifs through the rhythmic use of textiles, dots, and tribal markings, bridging the gap between historical African aesthetics and modern abstraction.

Simmons’ influence extends far beyond the canvas:

​

• Cultural Leadership: Co-creator of Def Poetry Jam and co-founder of the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation.

• Community Impact: Since 1995, his Rush Arts galleries in NYC and Philadelphia have served as vital hubs for hundreds of emerging and underrepresented artists of color.

​​

• Curation & Collection: A prolific curator and dedicated collector of contemporary art and African sculpture, Simmons remains a cornerstone of the African American art world.

​​

Selected Collections:

His work is held in prestigious private and permanent collections, including:

​

• The Smithsonian Institution

• The Brooklyn Museum

• Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA)

• Houston Museum of African American Culture

• The United Nations