The Smithsonian National Museum of African Art's director Johnnetta Cole said that if she had been aware of the sexual assault allegations against Bill Cosby, she never would had moved forward with an exhibit featuring artwork he owns, reported the Associated Press.
Cole said in The Root magazine that she was devastated by the allegations against Cosby, but that the exhibit should stay open because it's about the "interplay of artistic creativity," not Cosby's life and career. Cosby donated about $716,000 to fund the exhibit that opened in November and features 60 pieces of art from his personal collection, reported Reuters. The pieces contributed by Cosby include paintings by former slaves, various commissioned works and images of the comedian. The museum posted a sign last month reminding visitors that the exhibit is about the artists and not a tribute to Cosby.
"As someone deeply committed to human rights for all people, and especially because of my long-standing engagement with women's issues, I am devastated by the allegations and revelations surrounding Bill Cosby," Cole wrote in The Root. "I must also say that in no way will I ever condone anyone committing sexual violence against women and girls."
