William Carey University Celebrates Black History Month with Art Exhibit

Hattiesburg, MS, February 3, 2010 - William Carey University will celebrate Black History Month with a special art exhibit celebrating the African American experience in the Sarah Ellen Gillespie Museum of Art (SEGMA) February 2 through March 12 on the Hattiesburg campus. The opening reception for the exhibit is Tuesday, Feb. 9 from 4:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.

“In the last years of Miss Gillespie's life, she made a diligent effort to add works by African Americans to her collection,” said Iris Easterling, director of the SEGMA. “Desiring that the collection be truly representative of the work produced in the state, she sought out artists and agents who helped her discover and purchase work celebrating the black experience.”

The exhibit features more than 80 works employing various media. Many pieces were framed especially for this exhibit. Housed on Carey’s old Gulfport campus, some of the SEG Collection was damaged during Hurricane Katrina and had to be restored. Many pieces have not been exhibited until now.

Artists include William Hollingsworth, Sister Mary Bertoli, Helen Pickle, Alice Mosley, Saul Haymond, Charles Crossley, Joseph Pearson, Al Branch, and Lee Jackson among others. Both caucasian and African American artists have works represented that “record the joy evident in the black cultural experience,” said Easterling.

“I think this exhibit exemplifies the transcendent power of art,” said Easterling. “Art enables us to see beyond race, or gender or time.  That is why I encourage everyone to come enjoy this exhibit.”

The public is invited to attend the reception and exhibit free of charge. The exhibit will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and by special arrangement by calling 601-318-6148.



“A Ride to Memphis” by James Conner is among artwork being exhibited at William Carey University in celebration of Black History Month.