EL PASO, Texas (KVIA)– The International Museum of Art and the El Paso Black Arts Association are celebrating Black History Month with their second annual Black Arts Gallery, spotlighting Black excellence, creativity and community through the work of local artists.<\/p>\n
The exhibition features 125 pieces created by artists from the region, highlighting a wide range of styles, perspectives and stories rooted in Black culture and history. Organizers say the gallery is designed to be inclusive and welcoming to the entire community.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are people of all races here. It\u2019s not just for Black people,\u201d said Janace Walker, president and founder of the El Paso Black Arts Association.<\/p>\n
Walker said the lack of representation she saw in local art spaces inspired her to help create a platform for Black artists.<\/p>\n
Each piece in the gallery reflects aspects of Black history, identity and lived experience. For artist Christopher \u201cMaxxwrld\u201d Mack, his work is deeply personal.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is my homage. If it wasn\u2019t for the Black women who raised me and showed me how to express myself and feel comfortable doing so, I wouldn\u2019t be here,\u201d Mack said.<\/p>\n
Visitors said the exhibit resonates emotionally, particularly in its portrayal of Black women.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey make you feel something \u2014 proud to be a Black woman in society,\u201d one visitor said. \u201cThe colors, the hues, how everything mixes together on our brown skin \u2014 it looks amazing.\u201d<\/p>\n
Artist Towanda Chabikwa, who has used art to tell stories for as long as he can remember, said he hopes visitors leave with a deeper understanding of one another.<\/p>\n
\u201cEvery person is a universe within themselves,\u201d Chabikwa said. \u201cSometimes it takes time to grow, but in order to understand another person\u2019s humanity, you have to ask what they\u2019re bringing here.\u201d<\/p>\n