Black Men Crowned explore “Evolution of Black Art” at Youth Summit

In partnership with the Tennessee Arts Commission, Black Men Crowned (BMC) recently hosted its first Youth Art Summit, “The Evolution of Black Art.”

The event aimed to provide an innovative experience to build, celebrate, and amplify the artistic talents and perspectives of young Black artists.

“Developing skills in drawing, painting, photography, music, and meditation served as key elements in providing our young artists with exposure to cultural awareness and appreciation through various forms of art,” said Justin Hart, CEO of BMC.

BMC aimed to promote economic self-sufficiency by strengthening the skill set of the participants in various elements of art. The summit fostered critical thinking skills and encouraged students to acknowledge their strengths and weaknesses through self-reflection.

“The ultimate goal of the program was to provide an interactive, hands-on experience for young people throughout Memphis and to create a safe space for them to express themselves creatively,” said Hart.

The summit catered to the interests and needs of a diverse group of young aspiring creatives, equipping them with the skills to address current social and cultural discrepancies through various thematic art subjects, ranging from identity and race to hip-hop and cultural/social relevance.

By focusing on these topics, the summit provided a platform for young artists to explore and express their unique viewpoints, enriching the cultural landscape and fostering a deeper understanding of the issues that shape their lives.

The success of the summit was significantly bolstered by the talented instructors who shared their expertise and passion for the arts. The instructors were:

• • • Therrious Davis (Artist)
    • Be Manning (Photographer)
    • Nikki Nicole (Artist)
    • Joseph Boyd (Artist)
    • Amanzi Arnett (Writer & Composer)
    • Cheeto Ryan (Artist & Photographer)

These professionals provided invaluable guidance and mentorship, helping participants hone their skills and deepen their understanding of various art forms.

“Black Men Crowned would like to express gratitude and appreciation to the Tennessee Arts Commission for believing in our project and supporting the many organizations that advocate for the arts,” Hart said. “Their support ensures that programs like “The Evolution of Black Art” Youth Summit can continue to inspire and empower the next generation of artists, fostering a vibrant and inclusive cultural community.”