CULTURAL ROOTS: CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY THROUGH ART
A Powerful Showcase of Artistic Expression
LONG BRANCH – The Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center is celebrating Black History Month with a powerful and inspiring art exhibit and a series of engaging events exploring themes of community, family, and cultural pride. The art show features an impressive range of works by local artists, including vibrant paintings, intricate quilts, stunning leather goods, and thought-provoking photography.
On February 24th, the community is invited to celebrate Black History with Glenn Allen Sims, Long Branch native and former principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Glenn will share his journey from a student in Long Branch to an internationally acclaimed dancer and arts administrator. Classically trained dancer, Glenn has graced many stages and appeared on tv shows including Dancing with the Stars, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and So You Think You Can Dance.
On Thursday, February 27th, Lorraine Stone, well-known performer of African American stage plays, returns to the Long Branch Arts Center with a performance embodying civil rights activist Elizabeth Jennings, often called the 19th-century Rosa Parks.
As part of the ongoing “Storytellers” series, community leaders will come together on February 20th to share their personal stories and reflections on life in Long Branch.
Running from February 4th – February 27th, the “Cultural Roots” exhibit offers a diverse array of perspectives and voices that promise to captivate and inspire, showcasing the talents of artists Carla Cornick, Terina Nicole Hill, Latuya Morris, Faith Schwartz, Mario Scagnetti, and Cornelius Williams.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such an abundance of talent, and to be able to bring unique and inspiring exhibits to the Arts & Cultural Center,” said Mayor John Pallone. “Our latest exhibit, Cultural Roots, will undoubtedly be a highlight and will inspire all who visit.”
Carla Cornick, an artist and storyteller, presents a series of quilts that delve into themes of identity, resilience, and the shared human experience. “For me, quilting is more than an art form; it’s a dialogue with the past, a celebration of the present, and a vision for the future,” explained Carla Cornick. “This collection seeks to amplify voices and inspire themes of community, hope, and empowerment, while honoring the enduring spirit of those who paved the way for the freedoms we cherish today,” concluded Carla.
Terina Nicole Hill’s Jypsea Leathergoods collection is a bold statement for art and design lovers, presenting handcrafted leather creations, featured on HGTV’s Flea Market Flip, Upscale Magazine, Essence Magazine, and The Today Show, among others. Mario Scagnetti, a well-rounded artist from the Jersey Shore, known for fashion and tattooing, will showcase his figurative abstract paintings. Cornelius Williams, a lifelong Long Branch resident, painter, and photographer, explores a wide range of subjects, from captivating portraits and serene seascapes to bold abstracts. His work highlights the beauty and meaning he finds in both the everyday and the extraordinary.
Latuya Morris returns with her striking works of art, often using oil and acrylic paint to explore the narrative and significance of Black representation in art. “How we are represented in art is vital—our stories must be seen as relevant, relatable, essential, meaningful, and significant,” Lotaya shares.
Faith Schwartz, who returned to Monmouth County in 2022, presents colorful and empowering depictions of young women, celebrating their strength and resilience. Her work challenges negative stereotypes while inspiring positivity and hope. Faith has created a unique multimedia installation piece that symbolizes the shared history of the Black community in Long Branch.
Visitors are invited to the Opening Reception on February 6th, to meet the talented artists, savor homestyle soul food from Eileen’s Soul Food, and enjoy the smooth saxophone melodies of Jaffier Friday alongside the powerful spoken word of Joel Gray.
Join us this February to explore, celebrate, and honor Black history, culture, and creativity.
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The City of Long Branch is located in Monmouth County, New Jersey. Learn more at www.longbranch.org.
If you would like more information, please contact Michal DiMiceli at 732-571-5645 or mdimiceli@longbranch.org.