The Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Harrison County Campus Fine Art Gallery is proud to present “The Legacies We Leave: Black History Month Through the Eyes of Artists,” a special group exhibition running from February 3 through February 28, 2025. This powerful show celebrates Black History Month by highlighting the artistic legacies and contributions of African American artists.

The exhibition’s title draws inspiration from the quilters of Gee’s Bend, Alabama—a renowned group of African American women who transformed scraps into iconic works of art. These quilters, descendants of slaves, not only created beautiful, functional quilts to keep their loved ones warm but also built legacies of empowerment, economic independence, and cultural pride. Their efforts culminated in the establishment of the Freedom Quilting Bee in 1966, which introduced their works to national and international audiences. Today, Gee’s Bend quilts are preserved in over 30 prestigious art museums around the world.

Among the featured artists in this exhibition is MGCCC alum Tessa Rose, whose work “Generational Wealth” pays homage to the Gee’s Bend quilters. “These women lived in poverty, yet their ingenuity and artistry created warmth, beauty, and international recognition,” Tessa Rose said. “Their story inspires us to honor our roots and build something meaningful for future generations.”

Another highlighted artist, MGCCC alum Anthony Badon, creates vibrant figurative works that explore the nostalgia and pop culture of the African diaspora. “My work is about honoring stories—both inherited and self-made,” he explained. “I hope my art inspires future generations to see the beauty in their own stories and use art to preserve history, spark change, and instill pride.”

In addition to Tessa Rose and Anthony Badon, the exhibition features work from Cecily Cummings, Sherry Phillips Carlson, Marian Glaser, Patt Odom, Herb Willey, Becci Rae Edwards, Cissy McCabe Quinn, and many others. Together, these artists celebrate the rich tapestry of Black history, culture, and resilience.

Event Highlights:

• Exhibition Dates: February 3—February 28, 2025
• Location: Fine Art Gallery, Building D, MGCCC Harrison County Campus, 2226 Switzer Rd, Gulfport, MS
• Gallery Hours: Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Special Event: A Black History Month celebration will be held on February 13, 2025, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. (details to follow).

The exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, contact gallery director Cecily Cummings at cecily.cummings@mgccc.edu or call 228.897.3909.

Come and experience the stories, memories, and artistry of “The Legacies We Leave”—a tribute to the enduring impact of African American culture and creativity.