Join us on Wednesday February 26th at Community Folk Art Center, for a night of performances and a thought-provoking conversation on Black artistry led by spoken word artists Cheeki Williams, Glenn Simmons, Randum Poet, Sofia Gutierrez, and Kofi Antwi. This event is free and open to the community.
Community Folk Art Center Black Box Theater | 6:00 PM
This year we invite you to reflect on the significance of this year’s Black History Month Focus : African Americans and Labor. This historic observation brings light to occupations of all kinds and pays homage to Black entrepreneurship and resilience.
2025 Black History Month Events
Get ready to unleash your inner artist at our Valentine’s Paint Night—a fun evening of creativity, love, and laughter! Join us on Thursday, February 13th for a painting workshop hosted by artist, Iris Williams. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking to try something new, this event is perfect for everyone. All painting supplies will be provided, general admission is $30.00 per person.
Test your knowledge, celebrate Black history, and win exciting prizes! Join us for a fun-filled Black History Trivia Night at CFAC. Compete with friends in a series of categories including ; Arts and Literature, Sports, Civil rights, Science, Pop Culture, Education and more! This program is free and open to everyone.
CFAC Game Night and Karaoke returns! Whether you’re a singer, want to meet new friends, or are a cards connoisseur , this free night of fun is the place to be. Sing your heart out in the Blackbox theater through live on stage performances or relax and unwind with games for the culture and classic favorites like Spades, Uno, Culture Tags and, more.
Tuesday, January 21st 6:30 PM
This event is open to everyone, refreshments will be provided
The Community Folk Art Center presents “This Woman’s Work” a groundbreaking group exhibition and workshop series funded by the New York State Council on the Arts.
Join us for an artist Talk On January 16th at 6:00 PM
This innovative project, initiated by artist and community psychologist Rochele Royster, brings together thirteen local artists to collaborate as a collective and create artwork that celebrates the profound impact of Black women’s community care in Syracuse and Central New York. Highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of Black women, starting with the story of a Black herbalist from 1733 who lived near Ithaca, New York. The exhibit traces the pivotal work of Black women from the past to the present, demonstrating how their community care and mutual aid have shaped Central New York and the communities where they lived and worked.
Some of these women, like Harriet Tubman and Sarah Loguen, are well-known figures in the region’s history. Others, such as herbalist Elsye Brooks and musician Libby Cotton, may not be as widely recognized but played equally important roles. Artists researched these women’s stories and crafted visual representations imbued with symbols and imagery that reflect their care work. The exhibit captures moments of intimate, inter-generational care and the profound weight of what it means to hold and carry care in the Black community. This exhibit stands as a living memorial to Black women’s care in Central New York—a continuum that asks us how we care for each other today. It prompts reflection on the enduring models of care that we can learn from, honor, and continue.
The exhibition features an interactive component where community members can share stories about the women in their families and communities who have resisted through care. Highlights of the exhibition include a community weaving, community created altars, immersive storytelling sessions, and skill-share art workshops designed to educate and honor the work of local Black women while building community through the arts. On view in the Herbert T Williams Gallery from December 5th 2024- February 28th, 2025, the exhibit aims to provide a platform for learning, reflection, and celebration of Black women’s resilience and community care practices. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with the artwork, participate in storytelling, and attend workshops that delve into the rich history of mutual aid and care led by Black women.
Exhibiting artists include : Abdoul Malik Abdoulmoumine, Carlton Daniel, Charles ‘Deeda’ DeShields, Charles DeShields, Ebony Flag, Arthur Hutchinson, Courtney Mauldin Nadiya Narcorda, Giselle Richmond, Marion Rodriguez, Rochele Royster, Evan Starling, and Cheeki Williams.
Upcoming Free Visual Arts Workshops
Kickstart your New Year with creativity and inspiration! Looking to set your intentions and goals for the year ahead? Join us for an engaging and colorful Vision Boarding Workshop! This hands-on workshop will be led by artists, Kofi Antwi and Iris Williams, who will guide you in brining your future aspirations to life. This workshop is free and open to everyone, all materials will be included.
RSVP Today to secure your spot and take the first step towards your best year yet.
For accommodations contact Hadassah Onimiya at 315-442-2230 or honimiya@syr.edu
Happy Holidays from Community Folk Art Center! Wishing you joy, peace, and happiness this holiday season. We are grateful for your continued support and look forward to making more memories together in the new year! Below are the holiday hours of operation.
