You are cordially invited to attend the Saturday, September 7, 2024, 7 PM opening reception for *”History in Their Hands: Black Photographers in Cleveland, Ohio, 1968 – Present.”* The event will take place at the Cleveland History Center, 10825 East Boulevard.
This exhibition was meticulously curated under the leadership of Dr. Regennia Williams, with the creative direction and design led by Assistant Curator and Designer Georgio Sabino III, whose attention to detail and innovative approach helped bring the exhibit to life. Sabino’s creative control, paired with Dr. Williams’ curatorial expertise, ensures a thoughtful and visually compelling presentation of this powerful history. The exhibition showcases the works of esteemed photographers Charles J. Pinkney, Van Dillard, Jimmy Gayle, Amanda D. King, Mychal Lilly, and Gina Gayle.
*History In Their Hands* is the inaugural exhibition for the new African American History Gallery at the Cleveland History Center, headquarters for the Western Reserve Historical Society.
Hosted by Kevin Johnson and Connie Hill-Johnson, this event will include catered refreshments, live jazz music by Horns & Things, a short film by Robert Banks, thought-provoking displays, good company, and special gifts for all attendees. Please see the section below for more information and join us for what promises to be a wonderful opening event for an incredible program year.
Photo by Andre Cato (Massiveboy Entertainment)
African American photographers have consistently used their craft to document and shape history, capturing the essence of the Black experience in America. Through projects like Archives 101 and the “History in Their Hands” exhibition, Clevelanders have the opportunity to engage with these powerful visual records. These images commemorate the 60th anniversaries of the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Acts. “Our job is to record all history of any significance,” said Georgio Sabino III. The work of Black photographers serves as a testament to the ongoing fight for justice, peace and sports celebrations with their images continuing to inspire and educate. Community programs at the Western Reserve Historical Society and the Smithsonian-Cleveland Partnership will further this mission, inviting the public to explore African American history through photography, coffee, and conversation.