Asheville Prepares for a Meaningful Exhibition: Celebrating the East End Community
Asheville is buzzing with excitement as the Asheville Museum of History gears up for its newest exhibition: The Photography of Andrea Clark: Remembering Asheville’s East End Community. This unique showcase is set to open to the public on Saturday, September 21st, 2024. The exhibition features a heartfelt collection of photographs taken by the renowned local photographer Andrea Clark, specifically highlighting the vibrant East End neighborhood during the late 1960s through the early 1970s.
A Glimpse into the Past
For anyone curious about the roots of Asheville’s community, this exhibition is a not-to-be-missed opportunity. With 35 framed photographic prints, Clark captures more than just picturesque scenes; she documents a vital piece of Asheville’s history. These images showcase areas that have been significantly transformed by the city’s urban renewal program, offering a poignant look at the landscape, people, and buildings of what was once a thriving African American community.
The exhibition doesn’t stop with these stunning images. It will also include insightful essays on the impact of urban renewal on local communities. Additionally, a fascinating section will pay tribute to Clark’s grandfather, James Vester Miller, who was a master brick mason responsible for many notable public buildings in Asheville, featured beautifully in Clark’s photos.
Join the Celebration: Preview Party and Community Day
The museum is kicking off this significant moment in Asheville’s history with a special Preview Party on Friday, September 20th, at 6:00 PM. This gala-styled event promises to be fun and engaging, featuring music by DJ Raf and delicious cuisine prepared by Chef Hector Diaz from Modesto. Guests can also enjoy beverages generously supplied by New Belgium Brewing, Burial Beer, and Devil’s Foot Beverage Company. Tickets for this event are available for $50 for museum members and $60 for non-members and can be purchased at the museum’s official website.
The funds raised from the Preview Party will help support the Community Day event, which is set for the following day, September 21st, and is entirely free for the public. Starting at 11:00 AM, Community Day will include a range of activities suitable for all ages.
Community Day Schedule of Events
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Live music with the Jukebox Jumpers
- 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Kids Polaroid Photography – Help document the day with Polaroid cameras!
- 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Scholarly talks on urban renewal featuring Dr. Sarah Judson & Dr. Kathleen Lawlor, followed by a Q&A session.
- 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Children’s Interactive Programming – Experience West African Music & Drumming with Adama Dembele.
- 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: More live music with the Jukebox Jumpers
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: A community conversation featuring Andrea Clark and special guests, moderated by Dr. Dwight Mullen.
Support and Giving Back
This remarkable exhibition and its opening events have been made possible thanks to the support of local organizations, including ArtsAVL and Buncombe County. Special thanks also extend to generous sponsors like Hopemont Associates, Ralph Simpson, The Van Winkle Law Firm, and many others committed to preserving Asheville’s rich history.
The Asheville Museum of History is located in the historic Smith-McDowell House at 283 Victoria Road, Asheville, NC 28801. Regular museum hours are Wednesday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is a suggested donation of $10 for adults, with discounted rates for military and students.
Be Part of History
If you’re in Asheville or planning to visit, make sure to mark your calendar for this significant exhibition and community celebration. It’s a fantastic chance to connect with Asheville’s past, engage in meaningful discussions about community, and enjoy a day filled with music, learning, and fun.
For further information about the exhibition and events, don’t hesitate to check out the museum’s website. The Asheville community is excited to celebrate Andrea Clark’s extraordinary work and the rich history of the East End neighborhood!
