PUBLIC ART: Rirkrit Tiravanija’s “UNTITLED 2017 (FEAR EATS THE SOUL) (WHITE FLAG)” is on view from the roof of the Paul Robeson Center for the Arts through February 28. The installation is part of the Arts Council of Princeton’s commemoration of Black History Month.

The Arts Council of Princeton (ACP) will commemorate Black History Month 2021 with a free virtual art workshop, an exhibition celebrating the artistic and cultural influence of Black Americans, and a public art installation.

On view in the Arts Council’s Taplin Gallery from February 6 through March 6 is “Legends of the Arts: A Black History Month Exhibit.” Presented by Museums in Motion, visitors are invited to take a stroll through decades of culture and excellence related to some of the most notable individuals in American history. Legendary figures such as poet and author Langston Hughes, actor and singer Paul Robeson, actress Lena Horne, and Motown singing sensations The Supremes will be featured, to name just a few. All ages are invited to view this display as ACP recognizes the impact and influence of Black culture throughout history.

A virtual “​In Conversation” discussion with Kayren Carter Mjumbe, director of Museums in Motion, is scheduled for Tuesday, February 9 at 7 p.m. Register for the talk and view gallery hours and visitor information at artscouncilofprinceton.org. 

On Saturday, February 27 at 1:30 p.m., join local artist Kenneth Lewis Jr. in an exploration of the Harlem Renaissance and the powerful collage work of Romare Bearden. Using basic supplies from home, take part in this special hands-on celebration of art, history, and the possibilities of this form of creative self-expression. Free for all ages. Register at artscouncilofprinceton.org.

The ACP’s public art presence continues with the display of UNTITLED 2017 (FEAR EATS THE SOUL) (WHITE FLAG). The piece, on loan from artist Rirkrit Tiravanija, is a black-and-white adaptation of the American flag, superimposed by the words “Fear Eats the Soul.” Conceived in response to unrest in our political climate, there is equal – if not more – urgency to present Tiravanija’s flag in 2021. Tiravanija’s piece was created as part of Creative Time’s Pledges of Allegiance, a nationwide public art project that commissioned 16 flags, each created by acclaimed contemporary artists. Each flag embodies art’s ability to channel political passion, points to an issue the artist is passionate about, and speaks to how we might move forward collectively as a country. On view from the roof of the Paul Robeson Center for the Arts through February 28. Visit artscouncilofprinceton.org to learn more.

The Arts Council of Princeton’s 2021 Black History Month events are supported by the Princeton University Humanities Council.