vol. 223 / saajida

vol. 223 / SAAJIDA


VOL. 223 / SAAJIDA

Prepare to be inspired by this week's guest editor, Saajida Chohan. A shining example of passion in action, Saajida is a dynamic Richmonder whose expertise spans education, community advocacy, and artistic expression. Her unwavering dedication to promoting equity and social justice has made her a formidable community advocate. Beyond her roles in education and leadership, Saajida is an artist both by trade and by heart; her African-inspired jewelry creations radiate cultural significance and artistic flair. 

In her downtime, Saajida enjoys biking, swimming, watching documentaries and listening to music with her son. She also has a passion for herbalism, creating medicinal mixtures and offering herbal advice to family, friends, and customers. The beach is her favorite place; as a Pisces, she feels at home in the water and energized by the sun.

Take it away, Saajida...

The Art Seen: Artists Showcase and Meet & Greet


This is sure to be a special First Friday at Urban Hang Suite. Justice Dwight will be on site for the second and final month of his showcase. We’ll be celebrating the 10th anniversary of his “Call Tyrone” painting with new iterations and a special print drop. This is a special one for Justice as this painting has graced many walls including those of Issa Rae’s!

Vitals:

The Art Seen: Artists Showcase and Meet & Greet -  Friday, June 7th, 6:00pm / Urban Hang Suite, 304 East Broad Street, Richmond

Artist Talk: Re(CLAY)mation of Collaborative Intersections


Join us to learn from Lydia C. Thompson, a mixed media artist and professor at University of North Carolina at Charlotte, as she discusses the history of African American ceramics and the inception for the “Like the Dust Settles in Layers, So Does the Story” and 2024 NCECA Multicultural Fellowship exhibitions.
This program will be hosted as part of Black History Museum Cultural Center of Virginia’s community access programming and aligns with the current exhibitions being supported by the National Council on the Education of Ceramics (NCECA).

Vitals:

Artist Talk: Re(CLAY)mation of Collaborative Intersections / Saturday, June 8th, 2:00pm / Black History Museum Cultural Center of Virginia,122 West Leigh St., Richmond

Virginia Is For Music Lovers: Meet & Greet


Don't miss our special "Meet & Greet" as part of the "Virginia Is For Music Lovers: An Exploration of Virginia’s Black Excellence In Music" exhibition. This evening offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant intersection of art and music, while meeting some of the incredible artists and DJs who have contributed to this groundbreaking exhibition.


Vitals:

Virginia Is For Music Lovers: Meet & Greet
 / Wednesday, June 12th, 6:00pm / Black History Museum Cultural Center of Virginia,122 West Leigh St., Richmond

More About BHMVA...

During the month of June and through July 27, we invite you to visit BHMVA and experience Virginia is for Music Lovers: An Exploration of Virginia's Black Excellence in Music, a multi-sensory presentation that showcases the intersectionality of music, art and history through creative expression.
 
Our pop-up exhibition commemorating Black Music Month is now open. Exploring the vibrant heritage of Black music across the Commonwealth, Virginia is for Music Lovers highlights the talents of local artists, musicians and DJs showcasing their contributions to the soulful rhythms and powerful narratives of the African American experience. Take a multi-sensory journey through the rich cultural heritage of Black music in Virginia, complete with QR codes that unlock curated playlists that inspired the visual art and thematic narratives on display. Remember to BYOB (Bring Your Own Buds) – earbuds, AirPods or headphones for a personal listening experience. You don't want to miss this special, interactive exhibition!
Learn More