faith_ringgold.jpgMIAMI (AP) – The Perez Art Museum Miami has received a $1 million grant to buy contemporary works by African-American artists for its permanent collection. The grant was awarded as the museum prepares to open its new building in downtown Miami in December.

An advisory committee is selecting new pieces to join works by artists such as Lorna Simpson, Carrie May Weems and Leonardo Drew already housed in the museum's permanent collection.

The museum said Monday that three new additions already have been purchased. Those works are by Xaviera Simmons, Al Loving and Faith Ringgold.

Director Thom Collins says the museum is committed to reflecting the diversity of the South Florida community.

The grant is funded by museum trustee Jorge M. Perez and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

*Pictured above is Faith Ringgold.