February Connected Voices
Sep 11, 2024February is recognized as Black History month and while we embrace the significance of highlighting the contributions and history of African and African American people, we are also charged with integrating this knowledge into our work throughout the year.
The theme for this year, African American Artists and Art, has encouraged us to appreciate not only what these artists have created, but also gives us a glimpse of who they are, the lenses through which they understand their world, and in many cases, their hopes, dreams, and aspirations.
Art can also tell a story and by their representations, these artists have shared with us the story of a people. From ancient African art and the great kings and queens of Africa to the plantation south, to the Great Migration north for industrial jobs and other opportunities, and for some, a return back home to their roots; these African American artists have offered a window into their souls.
SCIMHA staff member Christopher Gaines recently met visual artist Richard Wilson at a local event and was able to appreciate his artwork. Mr. Wilson describes his art as “reality and creativity that reflect the beauty in the world.”
The artist hails from North Carolina and creates paintings that depict his own family and children, special moments, human connections, and some nostalgia. It is said that Mr. Wilson’s work “journeys deep into the souls of his subjects.”
To learn more about Mr. Wilson and his work visit his website at:
In the book Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us, Megsamen and Ross (2023) found that making consistent time for art keeps us healthier and happier.
Researchers have also found that art therapy and the art-making process support behaviors that strengthen bonding and relationships between caregivers and young children such as eye contact, pleasant touch, and responsiveness.
Creating positive early experiences and images through art bode well for healthy development, well-being and learning. In other words, regular exposure to art and the creative process is just good brain science for us all.
