Initially opening Feb. 1, Dorothea Dix Park is collaborating with the Raleigh Film and Arts Festival to host a free art exhibition until Feb. 28, titled Living in Color. The exhibition is in celebration of Black History Month, featuring Black artists from all over the Carolinas. In addition to being free to view during open hours, the park will host a meet the artists event from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 15.
Directions to park can be found here. Signs will be posted throughout the park pointing to The Chapel as well.
Later in the month, the meet-the-artists event will take place in what is sure to be an invaluable experience for all attendees, especially the artistically inclined. Providing the perfect space to interface with like-minded individuals, possibly holding groundbreaking insight in your artistic journey, or planting the seeds of a newfound professional relationship. Even if you’re not an artist, you’re sure to be enthralled by the stars of the show: the pieces themselves.
Last year the Living in Color event sparked inspiration for many young artists across the Carolinas. Sarah Despain, director of the Living in Color event, shares insight into the 2024 rendition of the event. “Last year, friendships were built, and mentorships were formed. The younger artists invigorated the veterans, and the seasoned creatives were able to share their wisdom with emerging talent.”
This year, the event has developed into a more flexible artistic get-together. Artists are allowed to come and go, setting up scheduling and vendors among each other. The event has become more community led, artists and the public meeting together to enjoy each other’s company.
Ms. Despain mentions that this year, “we would like to offer a relaxed socializing time and space for the community to ask questions and hear personal insight from our wonderful artists.” A perfect opportunity for art-viewers to take a break from walking around the show to relax and talk one-on-one with their select favorite artists.
Kyndall Owens, one of the displayed artists and a member of the advisory board for Living in Color, explains what her exhibited pieces mean to her, “My art captures the beauty of nature and life experiences. The 3 pieces I included in this exhibit were inspired by my faith, and themes of belonging.” On the exhibit specifically, she says, “This exhibit is very important to me as it celebrates the arts and black culture.”
Owens highlights the importance of the meet-the-artist night in the past, “It was nice that the organizers allocated space for an artist lounge for artists to get together and hang out before the show. I also love how so many people came out to support.”
Living in Color is more than just an art exhibition, it provides an impactful experience that connects the community of Raleigh to the many narratives of people of color in the South. The event not only highlights local artists but also sparks important conversations about identity, strength, and cultural heritage. By engaging with the diverse range of artwork on display, visitors leave inspired and better informed, carrying the feeling of unity and empowerment that defines this event. More information can be found on the Dix Park website: dorotheadixpark.org
DeSpain concludes: “Our goal with Living in Color was to not only talk about the history of people of color but also allow the artists to celebrate and share the vibrant experiences and diversity of people of color from the past, present, and what they envision for the future.” She says to be sure to come to the meet the artist night, saying, “This event is more informal and is intended to be an opportunity for socializing, networking, and engaging with our artists who are present. We look forward to seeing the community there!”
