Embodiment of Ebony: A Fusion of Art & Expression
Organization: Leaders Igniting Transformation (LIT)
In 1926, the precursor to Black History Month emerged as "Negro History Week," strategically placed in the second week of February to align with the birthday of Frederick Douglass. Sponsored by Carter G. Woodson and Jesse E. Moorland, founders of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), this week aimed to spotlight and research Black achievements.
By the 1960s, the week evolved into a month-long celebration, a testament to the growing recognition of the need to honor and acknowledge African American contributions. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially designated February as Black History Month, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating the often-overlooked achievements of the African American community.
Our exhibit endeavors to be a comprehensive exploration, presenting a curated selection of influential Black artists, musicians, poets, and writers, whose profound contributions have significantly shaped both Black and mainstream culture. Beyond art, we are excited to feature a special presentation on Black hair experiences, incorporating a dedicated Black hair salon. This unique aspect will delve into the intricate nuances of the Black community's hair journeys, adding a personal touch to the broader narrative.
We fervently hope that each visitor can fully immerse themselves in this enriching and thought-provoking experience, marveling at the diverse facets of Black culture presented before them. We aspire that this exhibit serves as a tribute to the resilience, creativity, and profound impact of the Black community throughout history.
Organization Bio
Leaders Igniting Transformation’s purpose is to build and hone the future of young melanated, Black, brown, and other marginalized students & youth as the next wave of leaders, activists, organizers, and policy influencers. Leaders Igniting Transformation accomplishes this through advocacy, leadership development, direct organizing, and year-round civic engagement. The purpose of Leaders Igniting Transformation is to build and maintain a multiracial coalition advocating to change campus policies that harm members of the campus community who have been marginalized. Leaders Igniting Transformation’s purpose is also to increase civic engagement on campus, especially for historically underrepresented voices.
"In curating this exhibit, my intention is to celebrate the richness of Black culture, consciously steering away from emphasizing the persistent struggles we encounter. Instead, I aspire to showcase the triumphant moments that define us, shedding light on the positive impact we have had in shaping both our culture and the broader society we inhabit. Through this exploration, we endeavor to emphasize the resilience, creativity, and enduring spirit that characterize our collective journey." - Honey Cawthorn, President of Leaders Igniting Transformation Whitewater Chapter
Della Wells
(American, b. 1951)
Mambo Dreams
2022
Collage Gift from the Artist, 2023 Annette and Dale Schuh Visiting Artist at UW-Whitewater, Crossman Gallery, UW-Whitewater
Okala All is Black (Ghanaian barber shop sign)
Paint on board
1990s
Gift from John and Diane Balsley,
Crossman Gallery, UW-Whitewater
Colin Matthes (UW-W BFA, 2001)
Muhammad Ali: Celebrate People’s History
2004
Print
Justseeds, Crossman Gallery, UW-Whitewater
Their Eyes Were Watching God
Zora Neale Hurston