SHOHOLA, PA — The Barryville Area Arts Association (BAAA) will sponsor an exhibit for Black History Month that includes the work of contemporary artists, as well as an exhibit of prints tracing the history of black American art through slavery into the civil rights movement. There will be a reception on February 3 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Artists’ Market Community Center, 114 Richardson Ave.

One artist’s work in the historical exhibit, for example, includes that of Edward Mitchell Bannister. When the judges in the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition found out that he was black, they tried to take back the prize they awarded him for his painting, “Under the Oaks.” Justice was served only when his fellow artists—the ones he beat in the competition—stood up for him, and the prize was reinstated.

The contemporary work features artist Malinda Ware, as well as the creations of Shanita Artson, Amber Doherty, Ed Hicks, Teddy Wilson and Jennifer Doherty. This event is being curated and coordinated by the vice-chair of BAAA’s Executive Committee, Ari Mir-Pontier.

At the reception there will be complimentary refreshments, live music and a group show of local artists. The event is funded, in part, by the Richard L. Snyder Fund, administered by the Greater Pike Community Foundation.