JAMESTOWN — This February, to celebrate Black History Month, Jamestown Settlement said it will feature several special programs to enhance its year-long gallery exhibits, rare artifacts, and films that recount the experiences of Africans and African Americans in early America, from the first-known Africans in Virginia in 1619 to the role of African Americans in the Revolutionary War.
Back for its fourth year, Jamestown Settlement will exhibit an exclusive Black Artist Showcase from Feb. 1 through March 2, culminating with the annual “After Angelo” event on Feb. 22.
According to the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, the Black Artist Showcase will connect the past and present “through vivid intersections of contemporary art and 17th-
century history,” displaying visual works from Virginia artists “showcasing the significance of Black History Month.”
A special opening reception will be held on Feb. 1 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will feature live music by the Hampton University Faculty Jazz Trio, featured artists discussing their art and an opportunity to meet with some of the artists featured in the special exhibit. Tickets are $25 per person and advance purchase is required.
On Feb. 22 from noon until 4:15 p.m., “After Angelo” — named for one of the first African women in Jamestown’s historical record — returns for its seventh year celebrating African American culture and heritage through art, performance and community conversation, the foundation said.
“After Angelo” will feature storytelling, music and dance with Agō Amè, a first-person interpretation by Valarie Gray Holmes and a musical performance from award-winning singer/songwriter Roberta Lea. At 2 p.m., a conversation will take place between Barbara Hamm Lee, host of WHRV’s “Another View” radio program, and The Black Opry touring member Roberta Lea that will look at the increasing acceptance of black artists in the country music genre.
Attendees are encouraged to explore the special exhibit, peruse artwork for sale from vendors and become the artist in a craft activity.
Visit the Jamestown Settlement webpage for more information.
