WORCESTER, Mass. – The College of the Holy Cross will hold a series of presentations and workshops by African-American artists during the 2003-2004 academic year. The series has been put in place to provide programming that speaks to the contemporary issues being addressed by three African-American artists: Michael Coblyn, Clarissa Sligh and Deborah Muirhead.
The creative work of these artists examines the history, identity and collective experiences of African-Americans. Many disciplines inform their work including genealogical and historical research; social history; education; and social issues of race, class, and gender. Each of the three artists relates social and historical conditions to their own personal and collective experiences.
Originally conceived by Kiara Upshaw '04, co-chair of the Black Student Union at Holy Cross, the series will include interdisciplinary talks by the artists. In February, Clarissa Sligh will lead a two-day creative workshop for a small group of minority women.
The series will begin on Thursday, Oct. 23 at 5 p.m. in Stein Hall, room 129, with a presentation by painter Michael Coblyn, who speaks of his work as "social expressionism." His figurative painting blends social history and current events with his interest in the cultures of Africa and ancient Mexico. Coblyn teaches painting at the University of Massachusetts. His work is widely exhibited. Coblyn's lecture is free and open to the public.
Clarissa Sligh will visit on February 19, 2004 and Deborah Muirhead will visit on March 18, 2004.
African-American Artist Series at Holy Cross
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