African American exhibition draws crowd

Posted

The Kalmanson Gallery of Emanuel Arts Council was proud to host its first community art show in our new home on North Green Street on March 16th. This inaugural exhibit was called “Black Art Inspires: Honor, History, & Culture” and featured artwork from the African American community of Emanuel County. About 90 people attended the event from 5 to 7 p.m.

EAC board member Syvetta Young was instrumental in gathering numerous art pieces that were displayed. We showcased 10 colorful and vibrant quilts, some of which were quite old, and some contemporary. One particular quilt, made by the late Gertrude Carswell, was so large and heavy that it had to be hung over the upstairs banister of the loft. Visitors entering the downstairs lobby of the art gallery could look up to see this huge quilt. Many marveled at the size of it, created by hundreds of triangles of fabric in what is called a “pine cone” design.

Other quilts in the exhibition were made by Sarah Drisdom, Lillie Jenkins, Corine Warner Hampton, Mary M. Barriner-Heath, Myrtle Warner, Gertrude Delois Carswell Phillips, and the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.

We also featured paintings by EAC board member Michelle Tann (Solar), sketches by Leneise Davis, paintings by Jamell Hall and KNZY, handmade dolls and bags by Lin Bell, and jewelry by Annette James and Sara Young.

The reception for this exciting exhibition was hosted by the Emanuel County chapter of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) organization. This important organization is a volunteer-powered network that advocates for the well-being of foster children in Georgia. (Visit gacasa.org for more information on how to become a volunteer.)

“Black Art Inspires: Honor, History, & Culture” will be on display at The Kalmanson Gallery through April 21st. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. After-hours special tours are also available for groups. Call 478-237-2592 to make an appointment. For current information on all arts programming, follow the Emanuel Arts Council on Facebook and Instagram.