North Raleigh Today

Block Gallery in Raleigh, North Carolina, is set to host a public conversation with the featured artists of the "It Ain't All Black and White" photography exhibition. The event, scheduled for Thursday, February 29, aims to honor Black History Month and provide a platform for the discussion of Black stories and experiences.

The conversation will be led by Lamar Whidbee, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate who is passionate about helping others overcome mental health challenges. Whidbee holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Carolina State University and a Master's in Fine Art from UNC-Chapel Hill, giving him a unique perspective on the power of creativity and self-expression in healing.

The "It Ain't All Black and White" exhibition, curated by photographer Leticia Clementina, showcases the works of 10 dynamic photographers dedicated to documenting the fullness and complexity of Black life. The featured photographers include Derrick Beasley, Mark Anthony Brown Jr., Samantha Everette, Chris Facey, Titus Brooks Heagins, Gadisse Lee, Phillip "King Phill" Loken, Jaylan Rhea, and Cornell Watson.

During the conversation, participants will have the opportunity to explore the emotions portrayed in the photographs and their connection to the artists' ancestors, community, environment, and creative practice. The aim is to delve into the ways in which sophisticated emotions shape and inform our lives, both behind and in front of the camera.

The event will take place at Block Gallery, located at 222 W. Hargett St. inside the Raleigh Municipal Building. It is free and open to the public, providing an accessible opportunity for individuals to engage with the art and participate in meaningful discussions about the Black experience.

Block Gallery, established in 2006, is dedicated to honoring Miriam Preston Block, a former Raleigh City Council member and community leader. The gallery aims to connect local artists to the community through ongoing exhibitions and public outreach. With its marble walls and elegant staircase, the gallery provides an ideal setting for showcasing original artworks, with exhibits changing every eight to 12 weeks.

Raleigh Arts, a part of the City of Raleigh's Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department, oversees Block Gallery and supports the Pullen and Sertoma Arts Centers. By administering the programs of the Raleigh Arts Commission and the Public Art and Design Board, Raleigh Arts fosters and promotes the arts in the city.

As the "It Ain't All Black and White" exhibition continues to captivate audiences with its powerful and thought-provoking photographs, the guided conversation at Block Gallery offers a unique opportunity to engage with the artists and delve deeper into the emotions and stories behind the images. It is a chance to reflect on the complexities of Black life and appreciate the power of creativity in healing and self-expression.

In the words of Lamar Whidbee, the Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate leading the conversation, "We are excited to facilitate this dialogue and explore the multifaceted nature of Black experiences through the lens of these talented photographers. It is an honor to be able to provide a platform for these important conversations during Black History Month."

Visitors are encouraged to park at the Municipal Building Deck on 201 W Morgan St. Raleigh and review the Raleigh Municipal Building rules before attending the event.