Berea College’s Janis Ian Public Exhibit Closing August 22

Fans will still have access to Ian’s extensive archives by appointment at the Hutchins Library

BEREA, Ky. – Janis Ian fans have until Friday, August 22, to visit “Breaking Silence: The Janis Ian Archives,” an exhibit showcasing the singer-songwriter-storyteller’s personal life, professional accomplishments and the causes that move her. 

Located in Berea College’s Hutchins Library foyer gallery, the exhibit includes Janis Ian’s hand-written song drafts, concert posters, gold and platinum records, family photos, pictures of Ian with other famous musicians, a custom-made Janis Ian model Santa Cruz guitar, concert apparel, “Rude Girl” dolls, special awards and other noteworthy items. Listening stations in the exhibit allow visitors to hear Ian’s recordings on vinyl, CD and video. A scrolling video timeline puts the details of Ian’s life in order and in action.

“Ian’s creativity is simply amazing,” said Tim Binkley, head of Special Collections and Archives at the Hutchins Library. “When she walks into a room, it lights up with positive energy. Her passions for the arts, education and equality feel like a natural match for Berea College. I hope that all who view the exhibit will connect with Ian’s music and poetry, her perseverance in the face of hardships and her vision of working together to build a better world for all.”

Since 2022, the multiple Grammy Award-winning artist has donated some 200 cubic feet of personal items to the Berea College Special Collections and Archives for educational use and long-term preservation. Classes from Berea College and the University of Kentucky have already used the archives to learn about legal matters such as protecting intellectual property rights and fostering social change through the arts. 

The public is also welcome to visit the archives reading room to study Ian’s letters, recording contracts, tour itineraries, publicity files, song charts, books and other items. Additionally, guests may play Ian’s 1937 Martin D-18 guitar and the 2024 Santa Cruz by appointment.

While many artists have received significant amounts of money for turning over their archives, The Janis Ian Archives are entirely different. Ian’s belief in Berea College is so strong that she donated all materials without compensation. Her only stipulation is that records remain open to the public, not just academic researchers.

The “Breaking Silence” exhibit can be self-toured for free during Hutchins Library’s regular visiting hours. For a guided tour or to visit the archives, please call (859) 985-3262. To learn about the Janis Ian Archives Fund or to donate, visit https://www.berea.edu/give/jiaf/.