HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Black History Month continues to be recognized throughout the Tennessee Valley, a celebration that continued Saturday evening in Huntsville.
The Orion Amphitheater hosted its first backstage black-arts pop-up, an event designed to showcase the talents of black artists across the city.
Local artists in the Rocket City like Elaine Nelson it’s a rare chance for black artists to be acknowledged for their vast artistic abilities.
“It gives an opportunity for everyone to showcase what their talents are without being denied. To show that someone recognizes your hard work that I’ve done over all these years and have a body of work that someone saw and said I’d like for you to showcase that,” Nelson said.
From drawings of Michael Jackson and Tina Turner to Derrick Henry and even Bear Bryant, the unique talents of black artists across Huntsville were on full display.
This was the first time some black artists got an opportunity for the community to see their work.
“I think it’s so important that we give our artists an opportunity to express themselves and be seen,” said Huntsville resident Joyce Arterberry.
“We need to know that there are black artists out there that are very talented, and they want to share what’s inside them because it’s a gift,” Arterberry added.
It was a first-time experience for local artists like Nelson who explained how grateful she was for the opportunity.
“Here I am now to God be the glory and to be able to inspire other black artists and children to dream their dreams as Martin Luther King said and fulfill them,” she said.
Dozens from the Huntsville community showed up to support the artists while getting a peak at their talents, with some even purchasing artwork.
“An event like this should not just be for black history month, it should be something we celebrate throughout the year,” Arterberry said.
Officials at the Orion Amphitheater say they’re planning for this event to be an annual outing.
