Aiken Visitors Center Celebrates Black History Month

Aiken Visitors Center Celebrates Black History Month

bl-historyQuilt Exhibit in February

The Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum (406 Park Avenue, SE), in partnership with the Center for African American History, Art and Culture, will host a Quilt Art Exhibit for the month of February in honor of Black History Month.  The exhibit will open on Thursday, February 6th and remain at the Visitors Center and Train Museum until Friday, February 28th.   Hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

“Tragedy Transformation Triumph” is the title of the quilt exhibit by local artist, Jackie Hill.  Through her quilts, Mrs. Hill hopes to further change America and the world.  She states in her artist statement that her goal is for America to be “one people, where everyone is equal in opportunity and equal under the law.”  Ten quilts honoring African American history will be on display for visitors to explore.

An opening reception will be held on Thursday, February 6th at 6 p.m. for those interested in meeting the artist while discovering the art.  The reception will be held at the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum.  Light refreshments will be served.

In addition to this art exhibit, the City of Aiken will also host an African American History Tour on Saturday, February 8th from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.  Local tour guide, Marty Bailey of Tailored Tours, has worked countless hours to research and prepare this unique tour for those interested in exploring Aiken’s rich African American history.  The title of the tour, as developed by Bailey, is “Looking Back at Forward Thinkers: Aiken’s Authoritative African Americans.”  Tickets are $15 per person and must be purchased in advance by calling (803) 644-1907.

For more information on the exhibit or tour, please call (803) 644-1907 or email nprzybylowicz@cityofaikensc.gov.