From the Director

There is plenty of buzz at Mosaic Templars Cultural Center as we head into Black History Month. Though the museum is dedicated to honoring African American history year round, the excitement increases at this time of year when the contributions of African Americans are highlighted throughout the country and parts of the world. As we head into the month of February, we hope that you will join us for our special events. From Family Fun days, to our exhibit closing celebration, there is surely something for everyone.

Also, be on the lookout for the February issue of AY Magazine and the February 8th issue of Arkansas Times which both feature exciting articles about Mosaic Templars Cultural Center.

Sincerely,

H.L. McGill, Director

Events

MTCC Joins 2nd Friday Art Night
Friday, February 10, 2012
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
 
The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center is excited about joining 2nd Friday Art Night. This event, which takes place the 2nd Friday of each month, is an evening when galleries, museums, and businesses open from 5-8 p.m. for an afterhours gallery walk. Full of music, art, entertainment, and refreshments, this event has become a mainstay in downtown Little Rock.


On February 10th, Mosaic Templars Cultural Center will open its doors as part of 2nd Friday Art Night and provide visitors with an upclose look at our Creativity Arkansas art collection. This collection, which features works in a broad range of media, celebrates the life and history of Arkansas through the eyes of many notable African American artists. 

Image: I've Got a Robe by Melverue Abraham





Exhibit Closing - A Night of Music with Galen
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

 


The Soul Sanctuary: Images of the African American Worship Experience will close at the end of February. This photographic collection, presents a black and white view of some of the most intimate moments in the African American church. This exhibit, which opened in September, took photographer Jason Micolo Johnson over 10 years and 15,000 photographs to complete.  Join us as we celebrate this moving exhibit with a night of music and entertainment. 

Renowned flautist Galen will present an engaging look at the history and evolution of jazz with special musical presentations honoring some of the country's greatest jazz legends.  

Refreshments will be provided.

Education

Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Distinguished Laureate Lecture Series featuring Amina Claudine Myers
February 9, 2012
10:00 a.m.


A graduate of Philander Smith College, Amina Myers' musical talent began at a very young age, and quickly flourished into a renowned career that has seen performances across the world. Myers' multifaceted career includes works in gospel, jazz, rhythm and blues and is well known for works involving voice choirs and voice and instrument ensembles.

As a 2001 inductee into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame, MTCC and the ABHF are pleased to bring Amina Myers to share her compelling story and illustrious musical career. This program will also feature a musical performance.  

Teachers: Please call in advance to reserve seating for your school group.




Family Fun Saturday - Tommy Terrific Magic Show
February 11, 2012
1:30 p.m.


Families are invited to attend an amazing magic show all about the Tuskegee Airmen. The show will feature magic tricks of things that fly, from balloons to planes to rocket ships in a very fun and engaging way. Throughout the show, Tommy will explore the legacy and accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators in the United States armed forces.




Arkansas Black History Quiz Bowl
Saturday, February 18, 2012
10:00 a.m.

Students grades 6-12! Enter the Quiz Bowl, and grow your knowledge of black history. Game questions will include topics from history, inventions, famous firsts, social science, sports, current events, arts, and entertainment. Teams must include 3 players. Study guide and rules will be provided. To download the study visit arblackhistoryquiz.com. The enter the Quiz Bowl, contact Frank Bateman at 501-913-2136 or arblackhistoryquiz@sbcglobal.net.  Prizes will be awarded to winners in both divisions. (Division I - grades 6, 7, 8 and Division II - grades 9, 10, 11, 12). 

For more information on the Arkansas Black History Quiz, visit arblackhistoryquiz.com.  



Dr. I. J. Routen and Voices Without Borders
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
10:00am

Join us for this special youth choir performance! This fun and dynamic choral performance features sounds and songs that celebrate some of the most influential African Americans in history.  

Teachers: Please call in advance to reserve seating for your school group.

Museum Store

10% off in the Museum Store during Black History Month.
Stop by and purchase some of these new and popular titles!



Medgar Evers: Mississippi Martyr
By: Michael Vinson Williams







  

  
Marshalling Justice: The Early Civil Rights Letters of Thurgood Marshall
By: Michael G. Long









    



Sister Citizen: Shame, Stereotypes, and Black Women in America
By: Melissa V. Harris-Perry












All Things Censored
By: Mumia Abu-Jamal










Children and Youth Books



Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad
By: Ellen Levin, Kadir Nelson (Illustrator)









When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson
By: Pam Munoz Ryan








Coretta Scott
By: Ntozake Shange