Feb 19, 2024 - Things to Do

Blair-Caldwell library hosts Black History Month art exhibition

Esteban L. Hernandez

Two women look at a painting inside a gallery, with the painting on the left-hand side featuring a boy in a white t-shirt and an orange and yellow background. — The Black History Month exhibition at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library in Denver. Photo: Courtesy of Denver Public Library

Dexter Nelson II, the museum & archives supervisor at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, said he knew the library had to "show up" for its busiest month.

What's happening: Along with programs associate Shanti Zaid, the two decided last fall to select nine artists, all with Colorado connections, to submit work for a Black History Month exhibition.

The display debuted earlier this month and includes 24 pieces. Most are acrylic paintings, though there are bronze and woodwork pieces.

Driving the news: The library will host a reception Tuesday with the nine artists displaying their works, giving the community a chance to meet them.

Between the lines: Nelson II tells us the idea behind the event came from its commitment to serve as the "heart" of the Five Points neighborhood.

Of note: The library — which completed a major remodeling project last year —also houses an art gallery and museum chronicling local Black history.

What they're saying: "We're in a very unique and unusual place in that we have a museum to communicate ideas as well as an art gallery," Zaid said.

Be smart: The exhibition is free and runs through March 11.

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Blair-Caldwell library hosts Black History Month art exhibition

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