Westchester has a deep cultural history for African Americans, from still-standing former slave quarters through abolitionist railroad stops to the honored veterans interred at the Rye African-American Cemetery. Here are ways to celebrate Black History Month throughout the county for both children and adults.
Black History Month Clay Exhibition
Clay Art Center, Port Chester
February 1-28
The Clay Arts Center presents an invitational exhibition celebration of Black History Month. The exhibit will feature pieces by artists Earlene Cox and Gloria Nixon-Crouch and run from February 1 to February 28. You can register for the Meet The Artists event, happening on Friday, February 16 from noon to 2 p.m., during which guests can learn more about their displayed work and creative process. This exhibition looks at human experience, identity, and fragility through the medium of clay.
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“Fulfilling the Vision” Curator Walk & Talk
Bethany Arts Community, Ossining
February 2 – March 8
This is your chance to take a guided tour of Bethany Art Community’s award-winning Black History Month exhibition alongside its curator, Joyce Sharrock Cole. The exhibit as a whole is an ode to Ossining’s African American community and its history. This year, the exhibit will expand its storytelling to communities outside of Ossining. Each gallery will highlight the steps taken by Black visionaries who worked diligently, intentionally, and purposefully to uplift the Black community in Westchester and beyond. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Exhibit hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets for the tour are $25 for adults and $15 for students from 6-7:30 p.m.
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Racial Justice Training
Irvington Presbyterian Church, Irvington
February 3, 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
In acknowledgement of Black History Month, the Irvington Presbyterian Church will hold a Racial Justice Training workshop. Join racial justice team members Kathy Dean, Susan DeGeorge, Jeff Geary, and Margery Rossi for a group discussion, lunch, and more.
Black Pearls of Wisdom: Art Workshop
Hudson River Museum, Yonkers
February 3, 12-4 p.m.
Get creative during this interactive event hosted by the Hudson River Museum. Through the art of collage and mixed media, celebrate monumental black figures. This event is a great way to appreciate black history while also incorporating arts and crafts.
Black History Month Art Exhibit
Tarrytown Warner Library, Tarrytown
February 3, 1-5 p.m.
This weekend, Tarrytown Warner Library opens its Black History Month Art Exhibit with an opening celebration. There will be a jazz pianist kicking things off at 1 p.m., and featured artists Ron Brown, Ella Hall, and Donald H. Whitely will be in attendance. The reception is free and will be held in the gallery.
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Reflections: Past, Present & Future of Black Excellence
Yonkers Arts, Yonkers
February 3 – April 5, 6 p.m.
This exhibit will display the works of artists Ajamu Kojo and Chet Gold. Their pieces feature representations of history, the present, and the future. Along with the art exhibit, there will be live music and interactive activities. General admission is free. The opening celebration takes place his Saturday at 6 p.m.
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Black History Month-African Performance With Amanda Armenteros
White Plains Public Library, White Plains
February 17, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Join Amanda Armenteros for a traditional West African dance class in the auditorium at the White Plains Public Library. In this class you will learn about the history, origins, and stories of the dance. This class is one night only, so make sure to clear your calendar.
Black Artists in the Spotlight: Currents of Creativity
The Rye Arts Center
January 25 – February 29
This day-long event highlights black artists, their art, and the stories and messages behind their works. This to-do is perfect for those who collect art, have an appreciation for art, or want to educate themselves more.
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