2 weeks Ago
Dr. Walter B. Curry Jr.
, founder of Renaissance Publications & Educational Services, is the recipient of FY25 South Carolina Arts Commission Arts Project Support grant. The grant funds will support Curry's forthcoming project titled "Through the Antebellum Period, Civil War, The Reconstruction Era & Beyond." This initiative will feature a comprehensive exhibition that narrates the life of Curry's ancestor, Martha Kitchings Seawright Ellison, who was born into slavery on Nov.
20, 1849, in Aiken County. The exhibition aims to provide a well-contextualized account of Martha's life, emphasizing the historical backdrop of South Carolina during the antebellum period and the Civil War, which overlapped with her experience of enslavement. Additionally, it will offer insights into Martha's journey during the Reconstruction Era across Barnwell, Orangeburg and Aiken Counties, detailing the noteworthy events that shaped her life during this transformative period.
Furthermore, the exhibition will explore the developments in Martha's life from the post-Reconstruction era through the Gilded Age, spanning from 1875 to 1900. This comprehensive approach will not only honor her legacy but also enrich the understanding of the broader historical context in which she lived. The exhibition will display a variety of items, including replicas, artifacts, natural specimens, visual representations and food samples that reflect the life of Martha and her family.
It will highlight noteworthy events from the chapter titled "Through Slavery, War, The Reconstruction Era & Beyond: The Story of Martha Kitchings Seawright Ellison" found in the book "The Awakening: the Seawright-Ellison Family Saga, Vol. 1." This curated collection aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the historical context surrounding Martha's experiences.
By incorporating diverse elements, the exhibition seeks to engage visitors and foster a deeper appreciation for the family's legacy. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the intricate narratives woven throughout the chapter, gaining insight into the challenges and triumphs faced during pivotal moments in history. The exhibition promises to be an enlightening experience that honors the Seawright-Ellison family's journey.
The exhibition will be included in Curry's work in the Aiken Center For The Arts “Author-In-Residence.” This program aims to immerse students in the exploration of South Carolina and United States history, emphasizing local and African American narratives. The objectives of the program are to enhance students' understanding of historical contexts by integrating visual art and direct activities.
This approach seeks to create meaningful opportunities for students to engage with the subject matter actively. By fostering interactions with visual art and experiential learning, the program aspires to enrich the study of both South Carolina and United States history, particularly through the lens of local and African American experiences. The grant evaluators made favorable remarks regarding the exhibition's potential: "The exhibition appears well planned and quite feasible.
This project should easily accomplish its goals of adding to the personal history of African Americans in Aiken County. Its relevance to middle school students is clear and exciting. Key personnel seem capable, interested and talented.
" “This population is about to experience personal connections and insight into history. The connection with the Aiken Center for the Arts also indicates an solid support system by a reputable organization." The exhibition receives funding from the Arts Project Support Grants, which aim to assist artists and organizations in enhancing the quality of their arts projects, marketing efforts, and events, as well as fostering their artistic development.
Eligibility for these grants extends to artists, nonprofit organizations, and government entities. Ligons among Columbia’s Best & Brightest Daniele Ligons, marketing and strategic services manager for Aiken Electric Cooperative and owner of Ligons Creative Co., has been selected as one of Columbia Business Monthly’s Best & Brightest 35 & Under for 2024.
This recognition honors young professionals who are making a significant impact in their workplaces and communities. Ligons, who contributes to various local organizations, including the United Way of Aiken County and the Kiwanis Club of Aiken, is known for her dedication to community service and leadership. She and other recipients were featured in the September issue of Columbia Business Monthly.
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