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The From Africa to Appalachia Foundation for Education and the Arts is presenting its 35th annual celebration of Black History Month with an opening reception and program on Sunday, February 5, beginning at 2 pm at Rose Center in Morristown. This year’s exhibit is “Defy the Color Gray,” featuring the work of Jason Flack of Johnson City.

The Edith Davis Gallery will open at 2 pm and a program will begin at 3 pm in Rose Center’s Prater Hall. The program will feature a talk by artist Jason Flack and live music by The Community Choir. The public is invited to this opening reception. The Gift Shop Gallery will also be open during the event. The exhibit will remain on display through February 24.

Jason Flack’s Artist Statement regarding “Defy the Color Gray”: “After the sudden death of my twin sister, Jessica, in 2010, I began painting, attempting to overcome and find a use for the grief I knew would always be a part of my life. I wanted to paint brightly, boldly and prolifically to be noticed and to also elicit energy – something I felt, and still feel, our area needs to recognize.

I chose to name this exhibit “Defy the Color Gray” based on many thoughts and feelings in my current life and from my past. As a half black and half white child, I always felt like I was in between those two races and colors – the color gray. I also wanted to defy the color gray with the use of bright coloration, intense and playful subject matter, and the overall variety of my exhibited work.”

“The From Africa to Appalachia Foundation (FATA) appreciates the support that Rose Center has given since its inception over 35 years ago. Many thanks also to all the supporters and volunteers who have helped us present such a great variety of programming,” said Treasurer Patty Gracey. “As is true for most nonprofit organizations, FATA always needs more financial and volunteer help.”

Anyone interested in learning more about what they can do contact one of FATA’s officers: Bo Simpson, president; Sandra Peters, treasurer; and Patty Gracey, secretary. Anyone who joins From Africa to Appalachia at the opening event will receive a free t-shirt (while supplies last). Individual membership is $20.

This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP5534 awarded to the State of Tennessee by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Rose Center, located at 442 W 2nd North Street in Morristown, is a United Way Agency and a Designated Agency of the Tennessee Arts Commission. The nonprofit arts organization hosts classes, concerts, a professional art gallery, a local artists shop, and business and party rentals.