University Galleries to Host Artist-Activists to Discuss the Intersection of Art and Social Justice

By Staff Report / 03/25/2021 College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

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EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (March 25, 2021) – The University Galleries at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University will host a virtual program, “African American Women as Artists and Activists” on Wednesday, March 31, 2021 at 6 p.m. The discussion will feature artists Sunny Gravely Foushee and Virginia Holmes and will delve into the impact that art with a social justice theme is becoming a major component for today’s movements including Black Lives Matter. Noted actress and author Angela Ray will moderate the discussion.

The virtual program will complement the University Galleries current virtual exhibition, “Black Art Matters” and “Rosa: The Works of Bryan Collier” as well as the in-person exhibition, Freedom Ship: The Works of Curtis James.”

Gravely's artistic world is one of rich color, striking pattern, and powerful imagery. Working in acrylics, watercolor, and mixed media collage, Gravely’s art is a reflection of personal moments both challenging and joyful. Vacillating between abstraction and representation, Gravely’s work references the rich history of African American art she studied at Howard University, including luminary Aaron Douglas, as well as European influences like Gustav Klimt. Gravely describes her work as primarily therapeutic, a practice that gives her a space to contemplate life, the loss of loved ones, and the challenges of change and justice. With her art, she hopes to inspire conversation amongst viewers and raise awareness about important social issues.

Holmes began by creating abstract non-representational street art. Painting in abstraction has transformed her perspective of growth and healing. Holmes’ creations reflect the dynamic styles of Jackson Pollock and the verse of Edgar Allan Poe. With the use of vibrant colors, pastels, and neons to transcribe innermost heartfelt emotions, she aspires only to exert her truth in motions, circles, spirals, drip paint, and splatters through her art. Holmes’ main mediums of choice are acrylic paints, spray paint, tape and recyclable materials on multi-surface canvas. She finds inspiration through music, poetry, personal interactions and history.

This free event is open to the public and can be viewed live at this link.

Sunny Gravely Foushee

Art by Sunny Gravely Foushee

Virginia Holmes

Art by Virginia Holmes

Media Contact Information: uncomm@ncat.edu

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