Dr. Newton was a member and historian of Aesthetic Dynamics, Inc., an art collective for the greater Wilmington area. Aesthetic Dynamics was created in 1971 by Percy Ricks, an artist and the first Black art instructor in Wilmington, in response to the poor treatment and segregation of Black art by the contemporary art scene. The organization offered a space to support, showcase, and celebrate Black art in whatever forms it took.
These materials document the goals of Aesthetic Dynamics, Dr. Newton’s participation, and the breadth of Black art the group supported from the 1970s to 1990s.
Percy Ricks (b. 1923 - d. 2008)
The Benign Neglect of the African American Artist, n.d.
If there is to be a new beginning to ensure the artistic integrity of the community of Delaware, then it is mandatory that we protect all our aesthetic treasures (including African American Artists) [in order] to enhance the vision of ourselves, to [leave] a true [cultural legacy] to our children, and to further the extensions of a cultural democracy in a multicultural society.
Percy Ricks, The benign Neglect of the African American Artist
Afro-American Images program, 1971
Blacksound program, 1976
Nya Akoma card, n.d.
Dynamics Press
