Exploring Historic Black Communities in Texas Through Artworks: A Spotlight on Local Artists
After the American Civil War, formerly enslaved individuals established Black settlements known as freedmen’s towns across the South to seek economic independence and safety from racial violence. In Texas, over 550 freedmen’s towns were formed between 1865 and 1930. However, factors like gentrification, urban renewal, and population loss have led to the erasure of many of these historic communities.
In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve the remaining freedmen’s towns in Texas, with artists playing a significant role in raising awareness. Projects and exhibitions in cities like Dallas and Houston are highlighting the rich history of these communities. Dallas-based artist Vicki Meek, for example, has been leading a public art project called Urban Historical Reclamation and Recognition, focusing on Dallas’s Tenth Street Historic District—a neighbourhood that began as a freedmen’s town.
Similarly, in Houston, Freedmen’s Town has gained attention from the art world. Once a thriving center for the Black population of Houston, Freedmen’s Town saw redevelopment and displacement as downtown Houston expanded. Efforts to preserve the historic brick streets and landmarks of Freedmen’s Town have been ongoing, with partnerships between local residents, museums, and artists working towards preserving the heritage of the community.
Exhibitions like “This Way” featuring works by Black Houston-based artists and projects by artists like Theaster Gates in collaboration with Freedmen’s Town residents aim to shed light on the history and struggles of these marginalized communities. The focus is on creating collaborative and community-driven art that reflects the legacy and resilience of these historic neighborhoods. Initiatives like residency programs and community engagement projects are also helping to bring attention to the issues faced by these communities and work towards positive change.
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Elara Voss, graduated from the Royal College of Art in London with a Master’s in Fine Art. She specializes in contemporary sculpture and installation art, exploring themes of nature and human interaction. Elara’s works have been featured in several group exhibitions across Europe, and she is currently working on her first solo show.