AKG Newsworthy NOLA

2023 #9

Saturday, June 17, 2023

On June 19th, 1865, enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas were finally informed of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed. This day, now known as Juneteenth, is celebrated as a significant milestone in the fight for civil rights and equality. Juneteenth celebrates African American freedom and achievement, and respect for all cultures.

This year, we join the nation in commemorating Juneteenth, reflecting on the struggles and triumphs of the past, and looking towards a future of greater justice and unity. Let us take this opportunity to educate ourselves and our communities on the history and significance of Juneteenth, and to honor the resilience and strength of those who fought for freedom.

Kindly,

-Nissa

Much love & gratitude to my stellar team who took care of the gallery during my personal retreat. I value you all.

-Angela

We are fortunate to exhibit four talented artists highlighted in this newsletter. Each pays homage to their ancestors and cultures through their art in sculpture, painting, performance, fiber and design. Spend some time exploring their diverse mediums, social commentaries, struggles and triumphs.

HONORING

WOODROW NASH

WOODROW NASH is currently working on a sculpture of abolitionist and women's rights activist Sojourner Truth. He has created a statue to stand tall in The Sojourner Truth Memorial Park and Plaza in Akron, Ohio.

This is the site where Ms. Truth delivered her famous “Ain't I A Woman” speech that challenged the exclusion of women of color from the women’s rights movement.

FATIMA TAJAH OLSON

TAJAH OLSON earned her masters degree in social work this Spring all while continuing to create her beautiful performance art pieces. We look forward to having Tajah in the gallery during Essence Festival June 29 - July 3, 2023 with newly available works.

CLIFTON WEBB

CLIFTON WEBB new works on paper are a strong addition to his thought provoking sculpture. He continues to expand on his interpretation of the human figure through his own visual alphabet.

BIG CHIEF SHAKA ZULU

BIG CHIEF SHAKA ZULU shares the New Orleans Black Masking Indian tradition with the world, most recently as a National Endowment of the Arts fellow. We look forward to featuring his 2023 suit, "The Blooming of The Mosasaurs", in Evolve, our second floor gallery. Mosasaurs shared the water of ancient Louisiana and Angola, Africa 86-66 million years ago.