North Tidewater News

Portsmouth, VA (January 22, 2024) - Grammy-winning Home Studios, in collaboration with the City of Portsmouth and Portsmouth Museums, is set to present the Black History Now! Art is Revolutionary series. This multi-week series, taking place throughout February, aims to celebrate black excellence and showcase the power of art to ignite change.

Mark Mims, Co-founder of Home Studios, describes the series as "a vivid canvas spotlighting the power, passion, and creativity of Black artists, filmmakers, musicians, and changemakers." The collaboration with Portsmouth Museums allows for a transformative experience that will ignite dialogue and celebration across the community.

Dr. Alexander Benitez, Director of the Department of Museums and Tourism for the City of Portsmouth, emphasizes the importance of the Black History Now! series in embracing the multifaceted richness of Black culture. He believes that through exploring the artistry, achievements, and struggles depicted in these events, the community can foster understanding, empathy, and progress towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Noelle Torian, representing Portsmouth Museums, highlights the significance of engaging in meaningful conversations and celebrating the power of Black art. She states, "By engaging in meaningful conversations and celebrating the power of Black art, we can ensure that Black History Month becomes not just a commemoration of the past but a catalyst for a brighter future."

The series will feature a range of events at various downtown hotspots and local schools. Week One will kick off with "A Toast to Soulful Flavors & Traditions" at The Famous in Portsmouth, where attendees can indulge in the incredible Neo-Soul cuisine crafted from generations-old soul food traditions.

Week Two will showcase the work of Artivist Nikkolas Smith, who will visit four local Portsmouth schools and the Children's Museum of Virginia. Smith, a dynamic Concept Artist, Children's Books Author, and Film Illustrator, will inspire young minds with his powerful visuals and stories. His art has been featured in notable films such as "Judas and the Black Messiah" and "Black Panther Wakanda Forever."

Week Three will present the critically acclaimed documentary "Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia," directed and produced by Kyra Knox. The film tackles the issue of gun violence in Philadelphia and highlights organizations that use the power of basketball to combat this issue. The screening will be followed by a conversation about community resilience, hope, and the power of positive action.

The following weeks will feature events centered around music, fashion, literature, and poetry, all celebrating the richness of Black culture and history. The series aims to provide a platform for amplifying ongoing conversations about equality, justice, and progress.

Mimi Terry, Portsmouth Interim City Manager, emphasizes the significance of the Black History Now! series in celebrating remarkable individuals and their artistry, as well as fostering inclusivity and empowering all members of the community. The City of Portsmouth is proud to sponsor the series and demonstrate its commitment to diversity and artistic expression.

Tickets for the Black History Now! series events can be purchased at www.blkhistorynow.com. For the full schedule of events and updates, interested individuals can follow Home Studios and Portsmouth Museums on social media.

As the series approaches, Portsmouth residents and visitors can look forward to a month filled with art, inspiration, and celebration. The Black History Now! Art is Revolutionary series promises to be a transformative experience that honors the past, while also paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future.

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