Join us for the Allentown Art Museum’s annual MLK Jr. Day Celebration on Monday, January 15, from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., a vibrant tribute to the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year we are pleased to showcase the work of our Community Art + Action Fellow Chloe Cole Wilson. Her exhibition Restoring Petals, opening that day, narrates tales of love, life, and healing amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Immerse yourself in a multisensory experience as Chloe curates captivating choral, spoken word, and musical performances, breathing life into the exhibition and paying homage to Dr. King’s commitment to community. Don’t miss this inspiring celebration at the intersection of art, culture, and social change.
11:30 a.m.: Storytime in the Rodale Classroom
noon-3 p.m.: Art making in the Museum Lounge and Crayola Classroom
12:30 p.m.: Storytime in the Rodale Classroom
1 p.m.: Guided tour of works by African-American artists, led by curator Elaine Mehalakes
2-4 p.m.: Opening reception for Restoring Petals
- 2 p.m.: Sound Scape Experience
- 2:30 p.m.: Introduction by Chloe Cole-Wilson
- 2:40-4 p.m.: Spoken-word and musical performances by:
Latrice Young
After graduating from Purdue University in 2018 with a B.A. in creative writing-poetry and minors in African-American studies, communication, dance, Spanish, and theatre, Latrice moved to Indianapolis with her husband, using her storytelling gifts and skills to start her company Dunique LLC. in 2019. In 2022 she decided to take her talents and skills to Bethlehem, PA, to enroll in Moravian University/Touchstone Theatre’s Performance Creation MFA graduate program. One of her primary artistic and academic goals focuses on the creation and education of choreopoems, with an emphasis on ritual and healing, to help connect the world and celebrate differences.
Darius Foster
Darius is an artist, producer, engineer, and more. Hailing from the vibrant landscape of New Jersey, Darius’s journey in the arts began with the piano, later venturing into music production. His inaugural EP is titled A Moment of Clarity.
Syncere Jackson
Syncere is a passionate singer-songwriter hailing from Allentown. With a deep-rooted love for music since childhood, Syncere has honed his craft over the past five years, emerging as a go-to artist in the realm of R&B. His soulful melodies and evocative lyrics reflect a journey shaped by a lifelong dedication to the art of music.
Jaeo
Jaeo, a Puerto Rican artist currently residing in Reading, PA, draws inspiration from a familial artistic legacy, particularly from a mother who was an artist at heart. Initiated into the world of music through Christian melodies, Jaeo discovered a unique pathway to forge his own artistic identity. Jaeo’s work is a testament to his unwavering commitment to creativity and the continuous exploration of his musical expression.
Rozse
Rozse, an alternative-soul singer from Allentown who channels life’s struggles into her soulful music. Her songs, born from personal experiences, serve as a bridge to self-understanding and a reminder that we share in a common human experience.
Admission to the Museum on MLK Jr. Day and every day is FREE for all thanks to a generous legacy gift from the Century Fund and lead support from Lehigh Valley Health Network along with City Center Allentown and J. B. and Kathleen Reilly.
Free parking is available in the Museum lot at Fifth and Linden Streets