Studio and Gallery
African and African Diasporic Art, Culture, Traditions: Art Exhibitions, Artist Talks and Lectures, Education and Public Programming, Creative Art Conversations, Book Discussions, Fine Arts and Crafts, Music and Dance, Poetry Readings, Videos and Documentary Screenings
Africa House is owned by artist Ann van de Graaf, who maintains an office and studio on the facilities. Her passion for African culture, traditions, art and social advocacy manifested into a dream on September 15, 2008 with an magnificent opening. This ceremony was held for the whole community including students from the nearby Virginia University of Lynchburg and other area colleges, artists and friends. A stage was set up under the shade of two large paper mulberry trees in the back yard and refreshments were served under tents. Garnell Stamps was the Master of Ceremonies and Ann van de Graaf welcomed the guests. Dr. Dibinga wa Said, from the Democratic Republic of Congo performed an African Libation Ceremony, Tommy Hanks performed a Cherokee Blessing and the Rev. Robert Marshall gave an Episcopal blessing all for the prosperity of Africa House. Michael Armisted, head of the student body of the Virginia University of Lynchburg expressed student support and interest in the goals of Africa House and Rev. James Cobbs sang a moving spiritual, a capella. At the close of the ceremony, Garnell Stamps read an original poem, composed for the occasion and Bruce Mabry brought out his guitar and played some tunes. Chairs were set up to accommodate the large crowd and folk mingled and socialized while listening to music arranged by J.Van de Graaf.
Africa House endeavors to bring exhibits of work by both established and emerging artists to the Lynchburg community and beyond. Being located adjacent to a Historically Black College, The Virginia University of Lynchburg, it is particularly interested in showing work by African Americans and other ethnic groups.
The exhibition space in Africa House is made up of two large rooms and a small alcove and accommodates multi-media creative works: two dimensional and sculpture.
In addition to Ann van de Graaf, the Curators associated with the gallery are Violet Mitchell, Donald Jones and Kenya C. Ramey.
When an artist’s work is on display the gallery is open every Saturday from 12noon – 3pm and on other days by appointment.
To be a center for learning about African art and culture and to mount art exhibitions, theatrical productions and poetry workshops that incorporate African values.
