“I AM: The African American Imprint,” an award-winning touring exhibition conceived of and presented by broadcaster Tavis Smiley, will open at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture in Charlotte on June 30.
With more than 200 artifacts, the exhibition celebrates nearly 500 years of African-American contributions to the history and culture of the United States. The exhibition will run from June 30 – Jan. 1, 2013. Charlotte is the eighth city on its 10-city tour and the Harvey B. Gantt Center will be the exhibition’s last venue in the Southeast Region. Through 12 galleries, this ticketed exhibition offers an in-depth look at the pivotal role African-Americans have played and continue to play in the development of America.
“America I AM: The African American Imprint” is a 10,000 square-foot presentation of pivotal moments of courage, conviction and creativity that celebrate the undeniable imprint of African-Americans on our nation and around the world. Visitors can explore 200 rare historic objects, documents, photographs and multimedia and learn how African-Americans have contributed to and shaped American culture across four core areas: economic, socio-political, cultural and spiritual.
Visitors will walk past the “Doors of No Return” and view personal artifacts and innovations from African-American artists, activists and inventors. They will see objects ranging from shackles used in the slave trade to abolitionist material and the poetry of Langston Hughes. Personal items from contemporary African-American figures such as NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, Serena Williams, Michael Jordan and Prince will be on display.
“America I AM: The African American Imprint encourages all people to connect and to celebrate democracy, cultural diversity, exploration and free enterprise,” said Smiley, a noted author, radio and television commentator. “By telling the stories of the events of the past, we can help the leaders of the future set the stage for just and active participation in the democratic process for years to come.”
Tickets, which go on sale tomorrow, are $12 for adults, $10 for students/senior citizens/military and $8 for children three – 13. There are discounts available for groups of 10 or more that register in advance.
The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture at Levine Center for the Arts is located at 551 South Tryon St. in Charlotte. For more information, go to www.ganttcenter.org.
