June 19, 1865 – A significant moment in American history where communication of the Emancipation Proclamation was delivered two and a half years after its adoption into law, freeing slaves in Texas who had remained in the bonds of slavery. Juneteenth is celebrated by over 200 cities in the United States and was adopted as a national holiday in 2021. Locally, Juneteenth has been celebrated for decades by families looking to celebrate the culture and welcome home family and friends.

To add to the conversation and celebration, The Brownwood Art Association will host a Juneteenth Art Show through June 27. Featured Artist will be Phokus. Phokus is becoming increasingly known for his use of grand scale, symbolism, and narrative laden works that explore esoteric parallels of the human condition.

“I reclaim and establish new narratives by introducing rites of passage through symbols and my own personal narratives. ” – Phokus

The show is titled: I can see the darkness in me and it’s quite amazing…

Throughout the month of June, the community is encouraged to participate by submitting kids’ art in the coloring contest that highlights local black leaders like Rufus Hardin, Walt Williams, Cecil Holman, and Carol Spratt. Coloring sheets will be available at The Brownwood Art Center and are due by June 18th. Submissions accepted at [email protected] or use the QR code located on the back of the sheet. The contest winners will receive a kids tablet. Two winners will be selected on June 19, 2024, during the Juneteenth celebration at the Brownwood Art Center beginning at 5:30 PM.

During the celebration the community can purchase $10 meal tickets, enjoy the art, meet featured artist Phokus, and share traditional African American cuisine like jambalaya, gumbo, and banana pudding. Proceeds from this event will be gifted to the Hardin School revitalization efforts. For more information, contact the Brownwood Art Center at 215 Fisk Avenue Brownwood, TX 76801 or call (325) 641-2916.