Customs House introduces lecture series ‘Jacob Lawrence: Storyteller of Courage, Resistance and Freedom’

CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Customs House Museum & Cultural Center continues to celebrate renowned African American artist Jacob Lawrence with the first installment of their new Sundays at 3:00 adult lecture series featuring Dr. Leslie King Hammond.

King Hammond is an American artist, curator and art historian who is the Founding Director of the Center for Race and Culture at the Maryland Institute College of Art, where she is also Graduate Dean Emeritus. On Sunday, December 3, she will guide us through the remarkable work and life of artist Jacob Lawrence, shedding light on the stories, struggles and influences that shaped his iconic works in her presentation titled “Jacob Lawrence: Storyteller of Courage, Resistance and Freedom.”

Lawrence was an influential figure to come out of the Harlem Renaissance. He was among the first African American artists to achieve widespread acclaim across the country with his unique visual storytelling that captivated audiences. Through King Hammond’s presentation, the audience will gain a deeper understanding of the socio-political landscape that fueled Lawrence’s commitment to portraying the African American experience with authenticity and resilience. The exhibit Jacob Lawrence: Three Series of Prints is on view in the Museum’s Crouch Gallery through December 31.

“I am thrilled to have Dr. Leslie King Hammond here at the Customs House in conjunction with our current exhibition of works by Jacob Lawrence,” said Curator of Exhibits Terri Jordan. “Dr. King Hammond comes with an incredible resume and a deep understanding of Lawrence. This event will be a great opportunity for our audience to learn more about the artist behind Three Series of Prints: Hiroshima, Genesis and Toussaint L’Ouverture”

This program is free and open to the public, making it accessible to all who wish to partake in this enriching experience. Museum admission is not included. This presentation will begin promptly at 3 pm on December 3 in the Museum’s Turner Auditorium. The Sundays at 3:00 lecture series will continue with more artists, historians and others bringing their expertise to the Customs House Museum on the first Sunday of every month.