The Kansas African American Museum is hosting a real in-person reception – no Zoom needed – on Friday, June 12, to celebrate women artists from around the state.
People are encouraged to leave their houses to visit the museum for the free event 5 to 7 p.m.
“Women of Color are expressive, soft, stern, graceful and immutable. Our strength does not compromise the beauty we possess, it only adds depth,” said Paris J. N. Cunningham, TKAAM curator. “Curating this exposition brought joy at the happy occasion of presenting this showcase featuring Kansas Women of Color and their work.”
The Museum will host an artists’ reception Friday, June 12 from 5 – 7 p.m., providing an opportunity to meet and greet the contributing artists of SHADES of Strength & Beauty, TKAAM’s latest Main Gallery Exhibition curated by Cunningham.
Practicing Covid-19 guidelines set by Sedgwick County, (limited capacity, face-masks, regular sanitizing) The Museum opens its doors for public tours of SHADES of Strength & Beauty at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays.
TKAAM invites the public to experience the curator’s vision and celebrate the artists as they embrace the creation of the Kansas women. The showcase also features works by famous African American artists Samella Lewis and Elizabeth Catlett. “The mix of new and aged artwork is meant to create a space for reflection on the women who inspire us with their multi-faceted fortitude and grace. I’m sure our members and visitors will delight in the originality of each effort,” explains the artist/curator who also includes her work in the stunning exhibition.
“We are Culture and it shows in the artistry of this fabulous exhibition!” said Denise Sherman TKAAM Executive Director. Exhibition participants run the spectrum from aspiring artists—Kaylee and Kennedy Hope, sisters and Wichita high school students—to the formally-trained world traveler Janice Thacker, retired Wichita school counselor and author.
TKAAM SHADES of Strength & Beauty artists also include Krystal Bradley, Michelle Briggs, Jianna Cousin, Rebecca Gilkey, Lily Guillen, Rachel Harris, Joanna Herman, Jaquilyn Johnson-Holder, Dominique Joiner, Briana Ladwig, Jocelyn Lechuga, Verlene Mahomes, Angela Rangel, Celine Sengvilay and Paris J.N. Cunningham.
TKAAM reopened to the public on June 2.