In celebration of the exhibition Sharif Bey: Facets and Juneteenth, the Everson Museum will host a free community day with educational activities and events that celebrate African and African-American culture and heritage. Enjoy a gallery walk with artist Sharif Bey, listen to stories of liberation from the Onondaga County Public Library, create Pan-African flags with educator Vanessa Johnson, and attend performances by James Gordon Williams, Syracuse Stage, and more. We look forward to seeing you there!
This program is made possible by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding from the City of Syracuse and is sponsored by a Humanities New York Vision/Action Grant.
Saturday, June 18 | 11:00am—3:00pm
Citizen James, or The Young Man Without a Country
11:00am—12:30pm
Hosmer Auditorium (lower level)
Written by Kyle Bass and Directed by Joann Yarrow, this captivating one-man show allows you to witness James Baldwin as he decides he must do something to save himself from the violent reality of racist America in 1948, a decision that sets him on the path to becoming a brilliant, powerful, and prophetic voice of the Civil Rights era and beyond.
Pan-African Flag Making (all ages)
12:00—3:00pm
Main Entrance Podium
Local artist and educator Vanessa Johnson will lead visitors in creating red, black, and green Pan-African “Freedom Flags” to celebrate the ending of slavery in America!
This flag, made by Marcus Garvey in 1920, stands as a symbol of freedom for African Americans.
Book Discussion and Performance!
12:45—2:00pm
Hosmer Auditorium (lower level)
James Gordon Williams will discuss his recent book, “Crossing Bar Lines: The Politics and Practices of Black Musical Space,” followed by a jazz trio performance.
In his book, Williams reframes the nature and purpose of jazz improvisation to illuminate the cultural work being done by five creative musicians between 2005 and 2019. Following his talk, Williams will perform with his Jazz trio!
Sharif Bey: Facets Gallery Tour Led by Sharif Bey!
2:15—3:15pm
Meet in Sculpture Court
Walk through Sharif Bey’s exhibition Facets with the artist to learn more about process and practice. Sharif Bey: Facets is the largest solo exhibition to date of nationally acclaimed and Syracuse-based artist, academic, and activist Sharif Bey (b. 1974).
Tours and Stories of Liberation
Ongoing from 12:00—3:00pm
Docent-Led Tours of Sharif Bey: Facets
Throughout the day Everson docents will lead tours of Sharif Bey: Facets. Check in at the visitor services desk to check when the next one will begin!
Stories of Liberation
The Onondaga County Public Library will be offering a liberation themed story-session for youth and families.
