This Black History Month event celebrates artists whose work highlights social issues

Art has a beautiful way of making its way into our lives. It’s essential.

As a child, everything starts with the arts. As a baby, you hear a lullaby, read a story, color with crayons, and dance with family and friends. Because of this, we often turn to the arts when we want to express certain feelings, explore our inner thoughts, or invoke change.

Artivists are artist-activists who have taken up the charge through their art to highlight social issues. Continuing in the celebration of Black History Month, the Center for Creative Education is hosting the 5th Annual Black Artivist Experience from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 24 at 16 Cedar St. in Kingston.

The Center for Creative Education’s (CCE) mission is to enrich the social and cultural awareness of our youth and community through arts, wellness, and education. Since 1989, the organization has been helping youth discover what is possible. This event ties perfectly in with their goals for the community. The Black Artivist Experience is intergenerational. The youth are not only involved in performing and participating in the event, but they are also a part of the curation.

The concept for this program came from a conversation between CCE Executive Director, Bryant “Drew” Andrews and singer/actress Marlene Merritt looking for a way to draw attention to the plight of the Black community.

Andrews stated, “Art helped me through all my trials and tribulations. It gave me a voice when I couldn't voice my opinion. It has a beautiful way to initiate change in a community.”

Five years later, this interactive event highlights the diverse experiences of today's Black community through all forms of art. It is not only an informative program but it also inspires people to change.

More: 'Still I Rise' exhibit celebrates Black History Month in Poughkeepsie

The lineup includes CCE’s award-winning Energy Dance Company, who created a multi-generational piece specifically for this celebration. They have swept the valley with their fresh and entertaining hip-hop, reggae, and Latin dance styles. They have won awards at B.E.T’s segment of “Wild Out Wednesday” and “Showtime at the Apollo” at the world-famous Apollo Theater among many other accolades.

God’s Hands - The Next Generation will also participate in this year’s event. This group is based in New Paltz, Kingston, and Beacon. In their performance, they not only dance but also incorporate sign language, and spoken word to express faith.

Esi Lewis of the Dr. Margaret Wade-Lewis Black Cultural Center, will read an excerpt from the production "Still We Rise," celebrating the poetry of Maya Angelou performed by Marlene Merritt and Phyllis Harris, the Ms. V "Did You Know?" segment and more.

“Art is a way of expressing yourself no matter the medium. We want our artists to come together and be heard, be seen, and know they are valued,” said Andrews. “All are welcome to attend this free event. This performance will be impactful, informative, and inspirational. It’s going to make you laugh, cry, lift your spirits, as well as make you think.”

If you go

What: The Black Artivist Experience

When: 6-8 p.m. Feb. 24

Where: Center for Creative Education, 16 Cedar St., Kingston

More information: (845) 338-7664, cce4me.org

This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Black 'Artivist' Experience in Kingston: What to know ahead of event