ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — An annual art gallery celebrating Black artists has returned to the Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center.

The “Southside Presents: Black History Month Through the Eyes of Art” gallery is open to the public during the center’s hours:

Monday to Thursday – 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday – 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday – 1 to 6 p.m.

The gallery this year features several pieces from local artists, most of which are for sale.

“The artists put their stuff on there,” explained facility manager Jessica Johnston. “This will be up for the remainder of the month, then we also might have our kids putting up some stuff. We have an after-school here.”

“Njano Matunda” by artist Jerrie Settles.
The gallery hallway at Southside Community Center.
“Peaches” by artist Jerrie Settles.

While the gallery is a modest size now, Johnston would love to see it continue to grow in the future.

Southside Community Center has an auditorium, a unique feature out of the Asheville Parks & Recreation centers. Johnston hopes to add 15 to 20 minute time slots for performers to sign up for next year.

Last night, Wednesday, Feb. 13, Southside Community Center hosted an opening reception for the gallery. However, artists are welcome to submit pieces through the end of the month.

A print by artist Geneva Bowers.
A print by artist Geneva Bowers.
A print by artist Geneva Bowers.

Black History Month will continue to be celebrated at Asheville Parks & Rec centers next week:

From 1:30 to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20, Harvest House Community Center has a celebration planned. The same day, a soul food supper will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at Stephens-Lee Community Center.

From 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 21, Burton Street Community Center will hold a history discussion, refreshments included.

Lastly, attend a History Alive! celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, Feb. 28 at Grove Street Community Center.

“Stephens-Lee does this amazing soul food supper,” Johnston said. “That is packed. Amazing food, good time.”

For more information about upcoming Asheville Parks & Recreation events, visit www.ashevillenc.gov/department/parks-recreation.

CORRECTION: 2:09 p.m., Feb. 16, 2025 – A previous version of this article misstated the date the Southside Community Center gallery will be open until. Artwork will be shown until Feb. 27.