PURCELLVILLE, VIRGINIA – FEBRUARY 10TH, 2017 - The Purcellville Arts Council will celebrate Black History Month with a continuing show of paintings and historic memorabilia in the Train Station. The show runs through the month of February 2017.
Lifelong Purcellville resident, Reginald "Reggie" Simms, with a background in graphic art, has spoken previously about his affinity for National Geographic Magazine. During his formative years, racial segregation prevented Simms from utilizing the public library. However, he quickly learned that he could "see the world" through the pages of National Geographic. That profound awakening has stayed with Simms throughout his life and is reflected in his large reproductions of various National Geographic magazine covers. Painted in the photo-realism style, Simms' vivid acrylic on canvas depictions of the iconic magazine covers make for a stunning exhibit.
Joining Simms' paintings are the various literary and memorabilia collections of Larry Simms (Reginald's brother). Larry Simms was a high school history teacher for 44 years and has remained actively involved in education. His collection of books on African-American culture, history and the arts will be on display as well as various culturally significant memorabilia.
The Lincoln Preservation Foundation has provided historical panels and a model of the Grace Church restoration project. History and memorabilia will be on display and members will be available to discuss the project. Further information on the Grace Heritage Center can be found at www.lincolnpreservation.org.
A reception with music, food and fun will be held in celebration of the exhibit on Saturday, February 18 from 10:00AM to noon. The Train Station will be open to the public and refreshments will be served.
Hours for the exhibit for the month of February are: Fridays, 11:30AM to 1:00PM and Saturdays/Sundays, 11:00AM to 1:00PM. Admission is free.
The Town of Purcellville's Arts Council serves to recognize and support local artists while striving to make art accessible to the public. Please send inquiries to the Town of Purcellville, attention: Melanie Scoggins at mscoggins@purcellvilleva.gov.
