Photo: Rev. Dr. C.T. Vivian standing in his home.
Photo: Rev. Vivian reading from his coveted collection of books.
At Home With
C.T. Vivian
Photos by Chuck Huru
One of the warmest invitations you can receive is one that invites you into someone's home. Immediately upon walking into the Atlanta abode of Rev. Dr. C.T. Vivian, symbols of history, art and culture sweep you off your feet. It feels like stepping into the ultimate personalized museum–one filled with awe-inspiring artifacts, artwork, books, awards and personal mementos. Rev. Vivian is an eager guide in the tour of his decorated sanctuary. With noticeable enthusiasm, he vividly recounts the memories, people and places associated with each item of interest.
On the list of impressive sights in Rev. Vivian's home is his office/library. Soon to be donated to the future C.T. Vivian Public Library in the Vine City neighborhood of Atlanta, his personal collection of books (estimated at over 6,000 books) hosts rare editions from authors such as Zora Neale Hurston, James Baldwin, and Paul Laurence Dunbar.
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In celebration of Rev. Vivian's 94th birthday, Auburn Avenue is proud to share some candid photos from his home, below.
Photo: A wall containing some of Rev. Vivian's collected artwork.
Photo: Rev. Vivian standing near a painting of his late wife, Mrs. Octavia Vivian.
Photo: Several of the many awards displayed throughout Rev. Vivian's home.
Photo: Rev. Vivian explaining the origin of various artwork in his home.
Photo: A photograph of Rev. Vivian with President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama after receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Photo: Rev. Vivian sitting in his living room area.
Photo: Rev. Dr. C.T. Vivian standing in his library.
Photo: Collected artwork in Rev. Vivian's home.
Photo: Rev. Vivian standing in front of his awards.
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Chuck Huru is the Editor-in-Chief of Auburn Avenue. Drop him a line at chuck@theauburnavenue.com