WILBERFORCE, Ohio — The National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center (NAAMCC) in Wilberforce, Ohio, is hosting the 10th annual Art of Soul! Juried Art Show, a powerful exhibition that celebrates African American art and culture during Black History Month. The exhibit, which will be on display through March 1, features 67 pieces of multimedia artwork from 43 artists across the United States.

“We are honored to celebrate the 10th anniversary of such an empowering and impactful expression of African American art and culture,” said Dr. Charles Wash, Director of the NAAMCC. This year’s theme, “Social Justice and Black Joy,” provides a thought-provoking backdrop for the diverse works displayed in the show.

Out of 153 submissions, a panel of nationally recognized jurors selected the winning pieces. The top awards include:

  • Best of Show Award: Ricky Calloway from Warner Robbins, Georgia, for Lucile
  • Black Joy Within Social Justice Award: Felicia Greenlee from Seneca, South Carolina, for Justice For All
  • Black Joy Award: Don Coulter from Dublin, Ohio, for First Avenue Part 1: Circa 1930
  • Social Justice Award: Melissa Sutherland Moss from Massapequa, New York, for A Place of Rest
  • Honorable Mention Award: Dantrel Boone from Cypress, Texas, for Tobacco Road

The exhibition also invites the public to vote for the People’s Choice winner, who will receive a $500 prize. Voting is open until February 21, 2025. To view the winning pieces and cast a vote, visit the People’s Choice Art Voting page.

In celebration of the show’s milestone 10th year, the NAAMCC also presented its prestigious Legacy Award to Willis “Bing” Davis, a legendary artist and educator from Dayton. “Bing Davis has been teaching and inspiring artists locally, nationally, and internationally for over 40 years,” said Wash. “He has also been a dedicated supporter of the NAAMCC since we opened in 1988.”

The Art of Soul! Juried Art Show is open for viewing Wednesdays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can explore the exhibition, as well as other museum displays, with regular admission. For more information, visit the NAAMCC website or contact the museum directly.