Discover the Richness of Black Experience at the ‘Black Creativity’ Exhibit at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

Not many people can invite their parents to see their likeness in a museum. For 25-year-old artist Ornella Bayigamba from Chicago, that’s a dream come true. Her oil paintings, showcasing her mother and a younger version of her father, are now displayed at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry.

Ornella doesn’t just connect with her family through her art. “So many people have said, ‘This looks like my mother. This looks like my grandmother,’” she shared. Her paintings, “Heart Full of Poppies” and “Why Won’t the Caged Bird Sing,” allow viewers to see themselves and their loved ones in her work.

The 55th Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition features not only Ornella’s art but also over 100 pieces from artists across the country. This event celebrates African American achievements in various fields, aiming to inspire both students and community members. The exhibit, part of the museum’s annual Black Creativity program, has been running for decades and is recognized as the longest continuously running showcase of Black art in the U.S.

As you wander through the exhibition, you’ll encounter Black individuals in a variety of scenes: resting, playing, and engaging with community. Museum director Angela Williams highlighted the significance of seeing positive representations of Black lives, especially for young visitors. “It’s vital for kids and families to see themselves reflected in beautiful images,” she noted.

While the exhibition celebrates joy and culture, it also addresses important social issues. For instance, the eye-catching pieces by Osei Agyeman-Badu portray powerful images related to police violence, reminding viewers of ongoing struggles for justice.

This year, artists submitted over 1,300 works, showcasing their creativity and storytelling ability. Nick Moody, an exhibiting photographer, expressed his gratitude for the recognition this exhibit provides to talented artists who might otherwise go unnoticed. His piece, “Old Heads,” captures older men enjoying the Bud Billiken Parade, reflecting on the rich tapestry of Black life in Chicago.

Another artist, Pugs Atomz, shares his connection to the city through his work. His painting “Meet Me at Dr. Wax” celebrates a historic record store that played a crucial role in shaping the music careers of many artists.

Atomz emphasized the importance of being part of this exhibition, especially in a venue his son loves. He expressed awe at the caliber of art displayed alongside his own, making the experience even more rewarding.

This year’s exhibition truly showcases the diversity and richness of the Black experience in America, blending culture, history, and community in a powerful and inspiring way.

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