Date: Jul 10, 2008

Hofstra University Museum Presents "The Greatest Of All Time: Muhammad Ali"

Collection Includes Powerful Photographs Capturing Muhammad Ali's Life

Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY – The Hofstra University Museum presents an original exhibition, The Greatest of All Time: Muhammad Ali, of distinctive photographs that capture Muhammad Ali’s life, including his childhood, boxing career, family life, humanitarian work and Olympic events. The exhibit, curated by Hava Gurevich and organized by art2art Circulating Exhibitions, will be on view September 21, 2008 through December 2, 2008 in the Hofstra University Museum – Emily Lowe Gallery, south campus.

Muhammad Ali burst upon the world stage over 40 years ago as a champion boxer. His prowess and talents as an athlete were unmatched, but his life and voice outside the boxing ring also changed forever what the public expects a champion to be. The photographers in this exhibition that captured Ali’s life include: Annie Leibovitz, Gordon Parks, Steve Schapiro, Thomas Hoepker, Sonia Katchian, and Art Shay among others.

“The Hofstra University Museum is pleased to present this insightful exhibition that explores the multiple facets and significant contributions of this cultural icon of the 20th century,” said Director Beth Levinthal. “Through this accessible photographic essay that covers key events in Ali’s life we intend for a broad spectrum of individuals to enjoy and be enriched by this exhibit.

In conjunction with the exhibit, several programs are planned including a public reception and educator open house on Tuesday, September 23, 2008 from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. An Art Talk Series presentation, Float Like a Butterfly: Muhammad Ali As An African American Icon, with Hofstra Professor of English Joseph McLaren, will be presented on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 4 p.m. Hofstra Entertainment will also present, Fightin’ Words, a Muhammad Ali inspired spoken-word performance in the Emily Lowe Gallery on November 13, 14 and 15, 2008 at 8 p.m.

This exhibition is presented in conjunction with the Hofstra Cultural Center conference The Greatest: From Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali, November 13-15, 2008.

For more information on this exhibit and associated public programs call (516) 463-5672 or visit the Hofstra University website at www.hofstra.edu/museum .

The Hofstra University Museum has been awarded the highest honor a museum can receive, continued accreditation by the American Association of Museums (AAM). Approximately 5% of museums nationwide have earned this distinguished recognition. Accreditation certifies that the Hofstra University Museum operates according to professional standards, manages its collections responsibly and provides quality service to the public.

Hofstra University is a dynamic private institution where students can choose from more than 145 undergraduate and 155 graduate programs in liberal arts and sciences, business, communication, education and allied human services, and honors studies, as well as a School of Law. The Hofstra community is driven, dynamic and energetic, helping students find and focus their strengths to prepare them for a successful future.