CELEBRATING AFRICAN-AMERICAN ELEGANCE at the West Orange Arts Center during Black History Month

West Orange Arts Council (WOAC) is honored to present an art exhibition 

Celebrating African-American Elegance

WHEN: February 3 – February 24, 2024  The community is invited to an artists’ reception on Saturday, February 10, from 1-4 p.m. WOAC Gallery hours are Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. and by appointment.
WHERE: West Orange Arts Center, 551 Valley Road, West Orange (Left: Adversity Runner, John Piccoli)

This exciting show has been assembled with the great help of gallerist Rey Arvelo and with support from Maria Estrela. It features the work of the following WOAC members: Judyann Affronte, Luis Alves, Kwaku Debrah, Nettie Forne Thomas, Mary Franklin, Karen Goldberg, Laurie Harden, Kathleen Heron, Carol T. Jenkins, Joanne Leone, Cathleen McCoy Bristol, John Piccoli, Timothy Simmons, Linda Strobert, Antoinette Ellis-Williams, and Tasha Williams. Throughout the run of the show, come to the West Orange Art Center to meet some of the artists and learn about their work, process, vision, and inspiration. (Right: Theresa Playing the Violin, Timothy Simmons)

Black History Month provides the community with a way to pause, connect, express cultural pride, and honor ancestors through art. "As an African-American and an artist, Black History Month always brings a special meaning to me and to those of African descent who strive to achieve excellence, especially in the arts," states exhibiting artist and WOAC Board Member Carol T. Jenkins. (Left: Under Construction, Karen Goldenberg)

“This WOAC exhibit showcases the Black community’s uplifting resilience and strong identity as well as its impactful human connection,” says WOAC Chair Patricia Mitrano. “We are fortunate to have an arts center in our community and look forward to celebrating this month with our visitors.”

About West Orange Arts Council:

The West Orange Arts Council's mission is to cultivate, inspire, and support the arts in West Orange. Area artists and community leaders remain the core of this all-volunteer organization that operates the West Orange Arts Center Gallery and Gift Shop at 551 Valley Road, West Orange, NJ. For more info visit www.woarts.org, www.facebook.com/woac.org or email info@woarts.org

This program is made possible partly by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, and administered by the Essex County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs.