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African American Read-In and Art of the Story Family Day at Piedmont Arts

Join Piedmont Arts and Carter Bank & Trust for a celebration of African American authors as the museum participates in the National African American Read-In on Saturday, February 10, 2018 from 11 am – 1 pm at Piedmont Arts. Danville-based storyteller Fred Motley will perform at 11:30 am and 12:15 pm. A modern-day griot, Motley has traveled to festivals and other venues to teach African-American history, music and dance for over 30 years. His performances will include classic folktales, songs and stories from around the world.

In addition, community members will read excerpts from books, stories and poems by their favorite African American authors and kids can take part in a free “Make Your Own Story” craft. A display of books by African American authors and complimentary refreshments will be provided by FAHI.

Piedmont Arts’ African American Read-In and Art of the Story Family Day is admission free and all ages are welcome.

The museum will continue its celebration of Black History Month throughout February with free family-friendly events honoring the contributions of African American artists, authors and storytellers to American culture.

“We are honored to celebrate Black History Month at the museum,” said Interim Executive Director Heidi Pinkston. “We have a full slate of events planned that highlight African American artists and authors of the past and today, as well as events designed to encourage families to come together and explore their creativity through hands-on activities.”

Board President Joyce Staples says it is important to celebrate Black History Month for several reasons. “Black History Month celebrates the cultural achievements and legacy of a group of people who have played a profound role in American history,” said Staples. "Not only that, but Black History Month honors the strength of people who overcame hardship and oppression to leave a positive footprint on American society. It helps all of us to appreciate diversity and the accomplishments of every individual.”

Additional Black History Month events at Piedmont Arts include:

Civil War to Civil Rights: How African American Artists Engage the Past
Thursday, February 15, 2018 • 7 pm • Piedmont Arts • Admission Free
Through the critical lens of the political, legal and cultural changes that marked the transition from slavery to the Civil War to the Civil Rights period, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Speaker on the Arts Evie Terrono, professor of art history at Randolph-Macon College, will examine depictions of the multifaceted and highly politicized dimensions of “race” and American identity in the artistic production of African American artists. Artists such as Elizabeth Catlett, Faith Ringgold, Kara Walker, Fred Wilson, Kehinde Wiley, and Hank Willis, among many others, will be discussed.


Preschool in the Galleries with ZipZapZop Theatre Co.
Wednesday, February 21, 2018 (Snow Date February 28) • Performances at 9:30 am + 10:30 am • Piedmont Arts • Admission Free
Piedmont Arts’ Preschool in the Galleries welcomes Carlisle School’s ZipZapZop Theatre Co. Preschool in the Galleries is a series of programs for pre-K students designed to foster a love of the performing and visual arts at a young age. Performances are free of charge to students and schools. To attend a performance, call 276.632.3221 to reserve your spot.