Ackland Art Museum at UNC-Chapel Hill has opened a new exhibition, "Color Triumphant," featuring 54 modern artworks from the collection of Julian and Josie Robertson. Julian Robertson, a UNC alumnus and founder of the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program, died in 2022. The exhibition traces the evolution of modern art from the late 19th century to the present, displaying works by 33 artists including Pablo Picasso, Oscar-Claude Monet, and Frank Stella. It includes paintings, sculptures, and works on paper, and is part of a traveling exhibition that will also visit Salisbury, North Carolina; San Antonio, Texas; and Austin, Texas.
The exhibition highlights the longstanding relationship between the Robertson family and the Ackland, which first borrowed from Julian Robertson's collection in 2009. By offering free admission, the museum aims to make art accessible to students and the broader community, fostering creativity and historical connection. The show underscores how private collectors can enrich public institutions and inspire future alumni, as noted by deputy director Peter Nisbet. "Color Triumphant" runs through January 4, 2026, with accompanying tours and film forums.