BLU Educational Foundation Presents: Black Arts Showcase

By Alicia Nicholson

On Saturday, October 4, BLU Educational Foundation hosted its first ever Black Arts Showcase at Valley College. The event was open to everyone and highlighted the talent and creativity of more than a dozen local black artists. The showcase was advertised as 4 pm to 7 pm but it went until nearly 8 pm. With live music, spoken word performances, visual art displays, paintings and sculptures, there was something for everyone. 

Upon entering, the audience was met with a live DJ curating the vibe, playing a mix of old and new school hip hop and r&b while attendees mingled, viewed art displays, or grabbed refreshments. At 5 pm, Sheba Jennings, creator and organizer, greeted the crowd; introducing herself and her vision for the Black Arts Showcase. Jennings, who also performed a number of original songs later in the evening with a live band, is an employee of BLU Educational Foundation, local rapper, and active member of the community. 

Jennings’ vision of holding a space for black art came to fruition as attendees, artists, and hosts joined in singing along, dancing and doing popular coordinated steps to music near and dear to the black community. As the event was a showcase, the pieces displayed were available for purchase so attendees also made purchases during the intermission. 

Throughout the evening, the audience was met with several performances including Zion and Onyx, a school-aged duo who performed an inspiring spoken word dialogue encapsulating black life, struggles and triumphs. The evening ended with a mind-blowing, energetic performance from local artist Zaya and the Sol Experience and food from a local food vendor. 

The Black Arts Showcase was an unforgettable evening of community, love, inspiration and laughs, all around good vibes.