NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is always a great place to see art and enjoy the outdoors, but Saturday Cheekwood will focus on showcasing Black artists during its Black Arts Bash — showcasing all forms of art from music to visual arts and more.
People can hear from bands, watch dance performances, and listen to spoken word.
Everyone can help build a community quilt using African textiles.
There will be food and adults can enjoy a cocktail in the lounge. There will also be activities for the kids like story time and opportunities for the whole family to learn from artists.
People can also walk through the fine arts exhibition where people can see the work of artists like Xavier Payne, or X Payne. He said this event is a great way for artists to connect with each other and the community.
"Black arts doesn't really get the kind of spotlight that it needs with how important it is to American culture I think. And visual arts in particular we're not as loud as musicians or as expressive as dancers, so I think putting a spotlight on visual arts is really important and it gives everyone the chance to see the full spectrum of art," said Payne.
The Black Arts Bash started last year with the goal of highlighting Black arts in all forms. For year two, Cheekwood is throwing an even bigger celebration with performances planned all day. For artists in town, it means a lot to know that the bash isn't just a one time event but a true commitment.
"For Cheekwood to say you know what, we're going to keep this going. We're going to keep Black Arts Bash going. We want to be able to have local artists identify, come here, and make this their home as well too. I'm grateful for that. I'm grateful for the opportunity to come to Cheekwood, another year and say, Threads by Dreads is still up and running," artist Christiana Afotey, said.
Afotey is one of the many artists that will be showcasing their work at Cheekwood this weekend.
She said she's excited for the opportunity to share what she loves doing with others.
"The history here at Cheekwood goes deep and it runs wide as well too. So, being able to collaborate and have a place that's a safe space for Black artists, to come in and say hey, we want you here. We want you to be able to share your work, share your story with not only Nashville, but everywhere Cheekwood reaches," she said.
The event will be going on the whole day from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. People can get their tickets online through Cheekwood's website.
