The Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA) at Cal State San Bernardino presents a new exhibition curated by costume designer and CSUSB Professor of Theater Arts Andre Harrington. The exhibition, “Beautiful Strangers,” features a curated selection of African artifacts from RAFFMA’s permanent collection, reflecting Harrington’s deep interest in adornment, textiles, functionality and ritual in African art. The exhibition opens Nov. 8, and it is free and open to the public.

Spanning 14 countries across the African continent, these artifacts invite visitors to explore the beauty, complexity and cultural significance of handmade adornments and ceremonial traditions. Through Harrington’s discerning perspective, each piece reveals a rich story of material, color and craftsmanship — offering a rare glimpse into artists’ design sensibilities and cultural vision.

More than an exploration of aesthetic inspiration, the exhibition encourages reflection on the privileges and responsibilities of cultural engagement in contemporary America. It invites viewers to consider the balance between being moved by artistic expression and acknowledging the realities of cultural distance, lost histories, and questions of provenance.

The exhibition also addresses urgent issues of today — from fast fashion and cultural appropriation to the lingering impacts of colonialism — raising important questions about how museums and audiences can engage with African material and culture ethically and inclusively. In alignment with RAFFMA’s mission, the exhibition seeks to transform stewardship into active reconciliation through open dialogue, transparent provenance research, and collaboration with originating communities.

To learn more, visit the RAFFMA website.

About RAFFMA
The Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art, nationally accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, houses a diverse collection that includes ancient Egyptian antiquities, ceramics, and contemporary art, and hosts 10–12 temporary exhibitions each year. Located at Cal State San Bernardino, RAFFMA presents one of the largest public displays of ancient Egyptian art in Southern California.

Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $3. Campus parking is $10 per vehicle.

RAFFMA hours of operation:
Monday–Friday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m.–4 p.m. (open every second Saturday of the month)
Sunday: Closed