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The Celebrating Black Music exhibition is an annual juried showcase featuring works in fiber created by nearly 20 African American artists from 23 different states. African Americans have a rich, deep, and vibrant musical culture, and Black musicians, singers, and songwriters are the undisputed pioneers of American music, laying the foundation for genres such as hip-hop, R&B, jazz, blues, country, rock ‘n’ roll, and more. Black Music is the soundtrack of our lives, offering one of the most profound examples of the significance of the African American experience to the cultural heritage of all Americans, regardless of race or origin.
For the 17th annual exhibition, artists were challenged to create fiber art pieces that honor and uplift Black Music and musicians. This unique exhibition, created and curated by award-winning and nationally exhibiting textile artist Torreah “Cookie” Washington, provides African American fiber artists an opportunity to showcase their original and innovative designs executed in a variety of traditional and non-traditional fiber techniques.
Join us in celebrating the profound impact of Black Music through the extraordinary creativity of African American fiber artists.
Curator’s Statement
Celebrating Black Music is truly celebrating the very soul of American music. The music of my people has touched every corner of American music. From gospel hymns to rap to, yes, even country, our music has been the soundtrack of America. I am excited that 60 artists from around the country have come together to create a visual love song to this beautiful, powerful expression of feeling. Black Music can make you feel something so deep, it can make you laugh, or make you weep. Black Music is beautiful, as you will see as you tour this powerful exhibition. I would like to thank each participating artist and the staff of the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department for their unwavering support over the past 18 years. As I have created and curated each exhibition, I know without such a steadfast partnership, this exhibit would not have grown to the magnificent display of African American talent you see before you today.