We Are Artists Everyone: the Bridgeport Cultural Art Center, 1970-1986

Exhibition Opening – Explore the history of the Bridgeport Cultural Art Center through an interactive exhibition!

Friday, September 27
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Burroughs-Saden Library, 3rd floor

The Art Center was far more than a place to learn visual arts, literary arts and music. The Art Center was a place to improve reading skills, get a meal, and gain exposure to burgeoning cultural, artistic, social, and political ideas. By the time of its closing in 1986, the Art Center had offered thousands of hours of art, photography, music and culinary instruction to city youth, adults, and senior citizens.   Curator, Michelle Black Smith

The Bridgeport Cultural Art Center and the National Black Arts Movement

Lecture by Professor Yohuru Williams

Friday, September 27
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Bourroughs-Saden Library, 1st floor program room

Dr. Yohuru Williams is the Dean and McQuinn Distinguished Chair of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of St. Thomas, MN. He is the author of numerous books and articles on African American history and is a regular contributor to national television, radio, blogs, and print publications.

Art Center Student-Teacher Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion with Art Center Alumni

Saturday, September 28
11:00 am – 12:30 pm

Burroughs-Saden Library, 1st floor program room

Join the discussion between the students who attended the Bridgeport Cultural Art Center and the instructors who taught them.  Panel members will recall their personal experiences with the Center and how it impacted their lives and changed the community.