To the Hoop

de Emily Stamey

From its storied invention in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith as a recreational activity for "incorrigible" youth, to its current multibillion-dollar industry of franchises, stars, and merchandise, basketball has captured America's--and stolen North Carolina's--heart. To the Hoop is the exhibition catalog for the Weatherspoon Art Museum's spring 2020 exhibit featuring portrayals of basketball in contemporary art, which coincides with Greensboro hosting both ACC and NCAA tournament games. The book includes scholarly writing about the artworks by Curator Emily Stamey, and a personal reflection on the game by Coach Wes Miller. To the Hoop explores these myriad facets of basketball's intersection with contemporary art and culture. Featuring the work of both internationally recognized and emerging artists, it offers an opportunity to consider the world in which we live through the overlapping lenses of sport and art. Exhibition: Weatherspoon Art Museum, Greensboro, USA (01.02.-07.06.2020).