Skip to main content

Savannah State University Showcases “From Slave to Soldier to Freedom” Art Exhibition

 

A new art exhibition is available for viewing at Savannah State University, featuring the 3D sculptural work of local blacksmith Gilbert Walker.

UPDATE 4/29/2022: A closing reception will be held on Thurs. May 12th from 5 - 7 p.m. in the Kennedy Fine Arts Gallery, located in the Kennedy Fine Arts Building. The event is free and open to the public.

Savannah State University’s Visual and Performing Arts Program is now featuring “From Slave to Solider to Freedom,” a solo exhibition by local blacksmith and 3D sculptural artist, Gilbert Walker. The exhibition is available for viewing Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until May 9. The art gallery is located in the Kennedy Fine Arts Center, 3219 College St.

A native of Savannah, Walker tells a story through his drawings, carvings, and metalwork which showcases the living history in the Lowcountry. As a young adult he spent most of his time in the marshes and creeks near his home, where he found inspiration for his art. Compelled by his Gullah-Geechee roots, Walker views his work as an avenue to bridge his interest in history and his passion for creating. In this exhibition, which centers around art as both expression and education, Walker explores the ways his ancestors live alongside him and how we all carry forward pieces of the past. This is his first solo exhibition as an artist.

“Walker’s work offers our students and the wider community the opportunity to learn more about Gullah-Geechee history and culture, from an artist who is reviving the African blacksmithing tradition,” said Christen Clougherty, Ph.D., Savannah State University Director of Galleries. “As we walk the streets of the Landmark Historic District in Savannah, we see an abundance of metal work, crafted by captured Africans. We are left with a powerful reminder of the tremendous skill, artistry, and ingenuity of these individuals who helped to build the United States.”

For more information, contact Dr. Clougherty by calling 912-220-4652 or emailing cloughertyc@savannahstate.edu.

Mr. Walker's collection features 3D sculptural pieces such as above, and will be on display through May 9. 

Popular posts from this blog

SSU Announces 40 Under 40 Awards

SSU Announces 40 Under 40 Awards Savannah State University (SSU) is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural 40 Under 40 Awards to recognize young alumni of the university who have made significant contributions to their profession and community. “Ideal candidates for the award should have achieved notable professional success, demonstrated exceptional leadership in their fields, made a positive impact in their communities and embodied the values and mission of Savannah State University,” said Cynthia Robinson Alexander, J.D., SSU Interim President. A nomination form is available HERE . The form requires the nominee's contact information, a brief description of their accomplishments, and an explanation of why they deserve to be recognized. The nomination deadline is August, 30, 2024. Only graduates of Savannah State University may submit a nomination. Only two nominations are allowed from each nominator. Self-nominations will not be accepted. All nominations will be reviewed b...
Post a Comment
Read more

Commencement Live Feed

SSU's 204th  Commencement Ceremony WHAT: Savannah State University holds its 204th commencement ceremony. WHO: “Pinky” Cole Hayes, owner of the Atlanta-based Slutty Vegan Restaurant chain, will deliver the commencement address. WHEN: Friday, May 3, 2024 at 9 a.m. WHERE: T. A. Wright Stadium on the SSU campus, 3219 College Street, Savannah, Ga. 31404 Click HERE to Watch the Live Stream  
1 comment
Read more

Savannah State University Presidential Search Committee Named

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 13, 2024 The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (USG) today named members of the Savannah State University (SSU) Presidential Search Committee. The committee will conduct a national search for a permanent president to lead the historic university. President Cynthia Robinson Alexander has held the interim role since July 1, 2023, following the departure of the previous president, Kimberly Ballard-Washington. Established in 1890, Savannah State University is the first and oldest public historically Black college or university in Georgia and was the first institution of higher learning in the city of Savannah. “Savannah State holds a distinct and critical role in educating Georgia’s students and helping the city and region thrive,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “This national search is about finding a leader who can build on that work, as SSU focuses on being a premier HBCU that prepares graduates for success and prosperity in ...
Post a Comment
Read more