Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/113255
•pg_14-18__BMT_pg3-58 2/27/13 6:54 AM Page 14 BY PATRICIA ANN JORDAN M U S E U M N OT E S "BERTHA LEE STRICKLAND CULTURAL MUSEUM FORTHCOMING; PLUS, ART HAPPENINGS" Bertha Lee The Celebration Strickland Cultural Museum – A of the Seneca African American Community The city of Seneca, South Carolina begins work February 11, 2012 on their Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum, which will house exhibits and restored rooms, representing the history of African-Americans. The completion is targeted for the end of 2014. Bertha Lee Strickland was in domestic service to Lilian Lunney for 47 years until Mrs. Lunney's death in 1969. She was one of eight children; all but two worked for the Lunneys. During that time she managed to pay for the college education of her daughter, Bertha Mae. She attended St. James Methodist Church located directly across the street from her home. Mrs. Lee's legacy represents the many African-Americans during that period who sacrificed and worked hard, so that those coming after them could have better opportunities. To honor her spirit, her drive, her determination with this museum is a testimony well deserved by her and our other ancestors. Title: Homage to La Mujer Latinoamericana –Medium: Acrylic on canvas Dr. Bertha Roddey, 20th past president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, was born in 1930 on the Strickland property. She is an innovator, educator, pioneer and historian, currently living in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Strickland is located in the historic district of Seneca in Oconee County, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This historic place reflects the hospitality and beauty of what's known as the golden corner of the state (a state which happens to be my birth state). Since its founding in 1879, the city strives to adapt to an ever-changing pace of life and to provide visitors and meeting attendees with a congenial atmosphere. The great outdoors of Oconee County offers endless opportunities for all ages – for fun and entertainment – including 82,000 acres of recreational water. Visit the official museum web site at www.stricklandculturalmuseum.org and the city web site, www.seneca.sc.us. LELA GALLERY – LOS ANGELES, LITTLE TOKYO Imaginacion Subsersiva (Subversive Imagination), an art exhibition which debuted January 12 at Lela Gallery, challenges the artists themselves and the perception of Latinos' art in today's co-modified art world. The art meshes the local and the universal concerns of not only Latinos but all cultures. I attended the opening and was impressed by the "power of the art." Including that of local artist, Jimmy Centeno, a painter and metal sculptor, whose Cal Trans commissioned homage to Latino women can be seen off the Los Angeles 101 Freeway. Lela founder Hideo Sakata, started Lela to present the spirit of not only Asian artists but Central American and Latin American artists, as well. He believes, "Art can bridge the cultural gap and bring people together under a shared humanity." Imaginacion Subsersiva runs until February 2. For more information visit www.lelainternational.com or call (213) 249-0538. LONDON SAYYID BOJORQUEZ GARCIA, 9-YEAR-OLD ART AWARD WINNER – LOS ANGELES London was the proud winner of the African-American Heritage Month Poster Competition, 2012. The theme: Stepping Back into the Future. His poster was of George Washington Carver, inventor and scientist. The event was sponsored by Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa, Wells Fargo, The African American Heritage Month Committee, and The City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs. The award ceremony was held at The California African American Museum. Congratulations to London!!!! London Sayyid Bojorquez Garcia, 9-Year-Old Art Award Winner 14 B M & T ••• January/February 2013 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com