To celebrate Black History Month 2021, the Humanities Council is partnering with the Arts Council of Princeton to offer a series of public events including a free virtual art workshop, an exhibition celebrating the artistic and cultural influence of Black Americans, and a public art installation.
On view in the Arts Council’s Taplin Gallery from February 6 – March 6 is Legends of the Arts: A Black History Month Exhibit. Presented by Museums in Motion, visitors are invited to take a stroll through decades of culture and excellence related to some of the most notable individuals in American history. Legendary figures such as poet and author Langston Hughes, actor and singer Paul Robeson, actress Lena Horne, and the timeless, regal Motown singing sensations The Supremes will be featured, to name just a few. All ages are invited to view this display as we recognize the impact and influence of Black culture throughout history. A virtual discussion with Museums in Motion director Kayren Carter Mjumbe is scheduled for Tuesday, February 9 at 7pm.
On Saturday, February 27 at 1:30pm, local artist Kenneth Lewis Jr. will explore the Harlem Renaissance and the powerful collage work of Romare Bearden. Using basic supplies from home, participants can take part in Harlem Renaissance & the Art of Collage. This worksop is a hands-on celebration of art, history, and the possibilities of this exciting form of creative self-expression.
The public art presence continues with the display of UNTITLED 2017 (FEAR EATS THE SOUL) (WHITE FLAG). The piece, on loan from artist Rirkrit Tiravanija, is a black and white adaptation of the American flag. Conceived in response to unrest in our political climate, Tiravanija’s piece was created as part of Creative Time’s Pledges of Allegiance, a nationwide public art project that commissioned sixteen flags by acclaimed contemporary artists. Each flag embodies art’s ability to channel political passion, points to an issue the artist is passionate about, and speaks to how we might move forward collectively as a country. The work will be displayed from the roof of the Paul Robeson Center for the Arts through February 28, 2021.
Learn more about Black History Month events on the Arts Council of Princeton website.
