The inaugural Artistic Council includes Derrick Adams, Sanford Biggers, Virginia Johnson, Fatima Robinson, Marcus Samuelsson, and Mickalene Thomas. This cohort follows in the footsteps of legendary predecessors like Cicely Tyson and Jessye Norman, serving as a creative sounding board for Artistic Director Robert Garland. Garland emphasized that the council is intended to keep the dialogue between artistic disciplines active rather than merely performative.

The initiative signals a shift toward broader cultural integration for the 1969-founded company. The appointment follows the recognition of choreographer Fatima Robinson with the Arthur Mitchell Vision Award earlier this spring. The council’s influence will be felt immediately as the company heads to Martha’s Vineyard, where Mickalene Thomas and Robert Garland are scheduled to hold a public-facing conversation moderated by board member Leslie Wims Morris.

Each member brings distinct prestige to the institution. Virginia Johnson remains a foundational pillar of DTH, while visual artists like Derrick Adams and Sanford Biggers provide connections to the contemporary art world. The inclusion of chef Marcus Samuelsson and choreographer Fatima Robinson underscores the company’s intent to bridge the gap between performance, visual art, and the broader Harlem culinary and social scenes.