WILLIMANTIC, CT (02/10/2020) Eastern Connecticut State University will host a “Philosophical Conversation on Black Music” by Lewis R. Gordon on Feb. 13 at 12:30 in room 110 of the Fine Arts Instructional Center. Gordon is a philosophy professor at the University of Connecticut. Following the conversation will be a reception at Eastern’s Art Gallery, which is presenting an exhibition of Haitian artists called “Creating Dangerously: Art and Revolution.” The event is free and open to the public.
“Born from the misery of enslavement, black music is at its core an assertion of freedom in countries that refused to admit the humanity and value of black people,” reads the event’s description. This talk will examine some of the philosophical implications of black music, the context of its birth and some ways in which its origins often lead to misunderstanding of its continued value. The discussion will explore the dynamics of spirituals, blues, jazz, rhythm and blues, rock, reggae and hip-hop.
Gordon’s talk is in conjunction with “Creating Dangerously,” which is on display until March 12. The exhibition features the work of six Haitian artists and marks the 10-year anniversary of the devastating Haiti earthquake of 2010.
The Art Gallery is open Tuesday and Wednesday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday 1-7 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday 2-5 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Art Gallery at 860-465-4659 or visit the website here.