Getting To Know… Beverly McIver

Known for: Acclaimed contemporary artist who explores racial, gender and occupational identities

About: The youngest of three children, McIver was born in Greensboro in 1962. Her family was quite poor and her older sister, Renee, mentally disabled. McIver worked hard to make something of herself, earning a bachelor's degree in art from North Carolina Central University of Durham, a Master of Fine Arts degree in painting from Pennsylvania State University and an honorary doctorate from NCCU, where she teaches art. McIver's numerous awards include a John Simon Guggenheim Fellowship and a Radcliffe Fellowship from Harvard University. McIver is Renee's legal guardian and has made Renee a frequent subject, as well as other family members, in her expressive art. Her themes often examine family, love and emotional ties.

Now: "Reflections: Portraits by Beverly McIver" is at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh through June 24. It highlights paintings that commemorate her life and people closest to her. Visit www.ncartmuseum.org. A documentary about McIver's life and caregiving, called "Raising Renee," premiered in 2011 and netted high awards. For more about future airings, visit www.westcityfilms.com