For 150 years, Prairie View A&M University has transformed lives, cultivated leaders, and advanced a legacy of excellence that extends far beyond its historic campus.
In celebration of this extraordinary milestone, Prairie View A&M University commissioned acclaimed visual artist and alumna Charis Kelley to create a collection of original works honoring the University’s history, impact, and enduring vision for the future.
Managed and presented in partnership with Basham Fine Art, the commemorative art initiative reflects the people, traditions, achievements, and defining moments that have shaped Prairie View A&M University across generations.
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Celebrating 150 Years of Prairie View A&M University
Rooted in Resilience. Rising in Eminence.
Story
Rooted in Resilience. Rising in Eminence.
For 150 years, Prairie View A&M University has transformed lives, cultivated leaders, and advanced a legacy of excellence that extends far beyond its historic campus.
In celebration of this extraordinary milestone, Prairie View A&M University commissioned acclaimed visual artist and alumna Charis Kelley to create a collection of original works honoring the University’s history, impact, and enduring vision for the future.
Managed and presented in partnership with Basham Fine Art, the commemorative art initiative reflects the people, traditions, achievements, and defining moments that have shaped Prairie View A&M University across generations.
The 150th Anniversary Commissions
Together, the works form a visual narrative of Prairie View’s remarkable journey from its historic beginnings and traditions to its contributions in education, science, agriculture, engineering, the arts, military service, and community leadership.
At the center of the collection is the official 150th Anniversary painting, a richly layered composition that celebrates the generations of Prairie View students, alumni, faculty, and leaders who have carried the University’s legacy forward.
The commissioned commemorative collection encompasses three original works created by Charis Kelley:
- Rooted in Resilience – The official 150th Anniversary commemorative painting
- An original artwork commissioned for the Office of the President
- A large-scale, 5-piece painting created on birchwood panels
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About Charis Kelley
Charis Kelley is a multidisciplinary visual artist whose work explores history, identity, spirituality, culture, and the power of collective memory. Ms. Kelley holds multiple degrees from Prairie View A&M University, including a Master of Fine Arts, making her selection for this historic commission especially meaningful.
Through symbolism, portraiture, architectural references, and expressive storytelling, Ms. Kelley creates work that connects the past with the present while inviting viewers to consider the legacy they will leave for future generations.
Her work has been presented in exhibitions and cultural spaces, and she continues to develop a distinctive artistic practice grounded in research, technical excellence, and purposeful storytelling.
Limited Commemorative Editions
Own a Piece of Prairie View History
To commemorate Prairie View A&M University's 150th anniversary, a limited number of museum wraps and fine art prints featuring the official anniversary artwork are available for purchase. Each edition offers alumni, supporters, collectors, and friends of the University an opportunity to bring this historic celebration into their homes, offices, and collections.
Edition of 0
Limited-Edition Museum Wrap
Limited-Edition Museum Wrap
— Rooted In Resilience
The 24 × 32-inch museum wrap offers a substantial, gallery-style presentation of the commemorative artwork. Produced in a limited edition of 25, each museum wrap will be signed and numbered by Charis Kelley.
Each museum wrap includes
- Artist signature and edition number
- Certificate of Authenticity
- Commemorative story card
- Gallery-style presentation, ready for display
Edition of 0
Signed and Numbered
Signed and Numbered
Fine Art Print
The 24 × 32-inch fine art print is produced on museum-quality paper in a limited edition of 200. Each print will be signed and numbered by Charis Kelley.
Each fine art print includes
- Artist signature and edition number
- Certificate of Authenticity
- Commemorative story card
Our Commitment
Art with Purpose
A significant portion of the proceeds from the commemorative museum wraps and fine art prints will be donated by Basham Fine Art and Charis Kelley in support of Prairie View A&M University.
By acquiring one of these limited editions, purchasers are not only obtaining a meaningful work of art, but they are also participating in the celebration and continuation of Prairie View's extraordinary legacy.
Important Purchase Information
Please allow approximately 4–6 weeks for production and delivery. Purchasers will receive fulfillment and shipping updates as their orders are processed.
Tax Disclaimer
This transaction is a purchase of artwork and is not a charitable contribution. The purchase price is not tax-deductible. Purchasers should consult their personal tax advisor regarding their individual circumstances.
All sales are processed and fulfilled by Basham Fine Art.
Preserving Legacy. Creating Value. Curating Beauty.
