"Kwanzaa Family"

In celebration of Black History Month at UNC Asheville, some 20 pieces of mixed media acrylic paintings and silkscreen prints by African American artist T.J. Reddy are on view through Tuesday, Feb. 27, in UNC Asheville’s Blowers Gallery. Noted for his use of natural mixed media materials including paper, sand, wood, fabric and feathers, Reddy’s paintings are influenced by his study of the African Diaspora and travels to the Caribbean. An exhibition closing reception and artist talk will be held from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27, in the gallery. The events are free and open to the public.

A native of Georgia, Reddy holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history and education from UNC Charlotte. A self-taught painter, Reddy takes his inspiration from the artists of the Harlem Renaissance and focuses on creating colorful narratives that are global and universal. His work is included in museums and collections worldwide. Also a noted poet, Reddy has published two volumes: “Less than a Score but a Point” and “Poems in One-Part Harmony.” An advocate for the arts, Reddy works with the N.C. Cultural Arts Coalition, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Parks and Recreation Department and Charlotte’s Afro-American Cultural Center. He has received awards from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Arts Commission, the North Carolina Arts Council, and the National Endowments for the Arts.

Blowers Gallery, located on the main floor of UNC Asheville’s Ramsey Library, is open during regular library hours. Admission is free. For hours of operation, call UNC Asheville’s Ramsey Library at 828/251-6546.

For a complete list of UNC Asheville’s Black History Month events, click on http://www.unca.edu/news/releases/2007/BHM.html.