In West Plains, an air of excitement and anticipation is building as the Lincoln School, a beacon of cultural heritage and community empowerment, prepares to welcome two illustrious guests. Crockett and Tonya Oaks, the dynamic duo behind the revitalization of the Lincoln School, are overjoyed to announce that Charly Palmer and Dr. Karida Brown will be gracing this cherished institution with their presence on April 12 and 13. This visit is not just an event; it is a celebration of art, history, and the enduring spirit of community that the Lincoln School embodies.
The schedule for this momentous occasion is thoughtfully curated to offer a range of interactive and enlightening activities. Kicking off the festivities, the West Plains Public Library will host a book discussion, presentation, and reading session from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on April 12. This event promises to be a profound journey through the pages that have captured the essence of our guests' contributions to art and sociology.
Later that day, at 4 p.m., a private reception at the Lincoln School will offer an intimate setting for guests to mingle and share stories. The reception sets the stage for a deeper connection, where the fabric of community weaves together individuals from all walks of life in celebration of culture and shared aspirations.
From 5 to 6:30 p.m., the highlight of April 12, will be a book discussion and signing at the Lincoln School. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to engage directly with Palmer and Dr. Karida Brown, delving into their works and the powerful messages they convey. This segment is not merely an event; it's a dialogue between generations, a bridge between histories, and a testament to the transformative power of art and scholarship.
From 8 to 9 a.m., on the following day, a private engagement with youth basketball players at the Jimmy Carrol Winter Sports Complex will underscore the importance of mentorship and inspiration in nurturing the dreams of the younger generation. This interaction symbolizes the passing of the torch of excellence and resilience to the leaders of tomorrow.
The grand finale of this visit will unfold at The Frame Shop & Gallery from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m., where a stamp memorabilia signing session will capture the essence of Palmer's contribution to the visual narrative of history and heritage. This event not only celebrates his artistic achievements but also offers a tangible connection to the legacy that stamps, as miniature canvases of culture, represent.
Attendees are encouraged to purchase their books in advance at The Frame Shop & Gallery, where a portion of the proceeds will contribute to the sustainability of the Lincoln School Project. This gesture of support extends beyond the event, embedding each purchase into the ongoing story of the Lincoln School's impact on the community.
Charly Palmer, an artist whose work reverberates with the echoes of African ancestry and the lived experiences of the Black community, brings to West Plains a vibrancy that transcends the visual. His philosophy that "Art should change the temperature in a room" is a testament to his ability to evoke emotion and provoke thought through his paintings. Each piece is a chapter in a larger narrative of resilience, beauty, and the quest for truth. Palmer's recent accolades, including his design of the 47th stamp in the Black Heritage Stamp series and collaborations with prominent figures and institutions, underscore his significant role in shaping the visual discourse of race and heritage.
Dr. Karida L. Brown, a sociologist and professor with a deep commitment to exploring the fullness of Black life, complements this artistic journey with her scholarly insight. Her work, rooted in oral history and public intellectualism, offers a profound exploration of identity, community, and the forces that shape the narratives of Black families. Dr. Brown's upcoming book, "The Battle for the Black Mind," and her co-authored work with Palmer, "The New Brownies' Book: A Love Letter To Black Families," reflect her dedication to illuminating the paths of understanding and empowerment.
As West Plains prepares to welcome these two extraordinary individuals, the Lincoln School stands as a symbol of the enduring power of community, art, and scholarship to inspire change and foster unity. Crockett and Tonya Oaks invite you to be part of this historic moment, a celebration of culture, history, and the indomitable spirit of the human heart. Together, we embark on a journey that transcends the confines of time and space, united in our quest for knowledge, beauty, and a deeper connection to the stories that define us.
