STORYTELLERS: a Celebration of Black Artists

Description

The Decatur Area Arts Council will host an exhibit called “STORYTELLERS: a Celebration of Black Artists,” February 3-23, 2023, in the Anne Lloyd Gallery at the Madden Arts Center in downtown Decatur.

The gallery exhibit will feature a variety of 2D artwork from artists within the Central Illinois region. Artists were invited to create a piece of art that told a story, either of their own experience or that of someone else. Each work of art will be accompanied by its “story” in written form as provided by the artists.

The exhibit is co-curated by DAAC’s Jami Fawley and Decatur artist Antonio L. Burton, aka Toni Picasso.

Participating artists are:

·         Antonio Burton aka Toni Picasso

·         Scotland Brown

·         Korbin King

·         Michelle Smith

·         Jeff C. Williams

·         Trish Williams

First Friday Gallery Walk
February 3rd opening reception hours are 5-7 pm and will feature:

·         Anne Lloyd Gallery
- Live music featuring Tebe Zalango on violin
- Complimentary refreshments
- 6pm presentation by Oba William King (member of the National Association of Black Storytellers), featuring drummer Mark Vaughn
- Community Drum Circle led by Kaream Williams will follow the presentation. Bring your drum!

·         Blue Connection will feature Millikin University Student artwork

·         Gallery 510 will feature the artwork of Grace Snively

Regular gallery hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm and Saturdays, 10 am-2 pm.  The gallery is free and open to the public.

Mid-Day Music Concert
As part of this month-long cultural celebration, DAAC will host a free Mid-Day Music Concert entitled “Black Classical Composers,” Wednesday, February 22, 12:15-12:45 pm, in the Anne Lloyd Gallery. This free concert will feature a lecture-demonstration by Illinois Symphony Orchestra violinist Chenoa Murphy.  Large groups are encouraged to call ahead for seating. Guests may bring a lunch to enjoy during the concert.

Gallery Field Trips
Field trips are available to school and community groups of all ages. Field trips include a guided tour through the gallery exhibit and a related instructor-led art project in the studio. By appointment only during regular gallery hours Monday-Friday. Ask about available scholarships!

This exhibit is sponsored by the Community Foundation of Macon County, Suite 704, The African American Cultural and Genealogical Society, and the Illinois Arts Council Agency.

For more information, visit on Facebook, our web page at www.decaturarts.org, call 217-423-3189, or email arts4all@decaturarts.org.