Local filmmaker, artist and student artwork exhibit celebrates Black History Month at Fishers City Hall

“A Youthful Perspective of Black History in America” celebrates Black History Month through the artwork of Bryce Culverhouse and Fall Creek Junior High School students for a special February exhibit hosted by the Fishers Arts Council at The Art Gallery at City Hall.

During the exhibit opening from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 8, Indiana filmmaker Demetrius Witherspoon will show his 20-minute film, called “Submerge: Echo 51,” which is part of his popular Sci-Fi Film series. The film will be played at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Visitors can meet with Witherspoon and some of the cast of the film before and after the film.

Born in Louisville, Ky., Witherspoon makes Indianapolis his home where he owns the film production company DV Entertainment Pictures. He’s working on his fifth film, which is slated to be released this summer. Witherspoon has won awards for editing and directing. He was inspired by George Lucas, Steven Spielberg and JJ Abrams. For more information, visit dventertainmentpictures.com.

The art exhibit will include several digital typography pieces by Culverhouse, a Brownsburg artist, whose work combines his passion for history and visual art.

“I created specific history or biography lessons that both communicate information about the subject as well as an interesting concept to visualizing the subject,” Culverhouse said. “Each piece is meant to be read as well as view for its visual value.”

Fall Creek Junior High School art and history students created designs featuring historical scenes recreated through the eyes of famous artists, such as Vincent van Gogh. The exhibit also will feature a large self-portrait installation inspired by New York artist Kehinde Wiley, commissioned to paint a portrait of former president Barack Obama and Michelle Obama.

A public reception will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Feb. 8 at The Art Gallery at City Hall. The exhibit is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays and is free to attend.

The Fishers Arts Council’s goal is to promote spaces for public art and local artists in the city and in the private sector. Learn more about the Fishers Arts Council at fishersartscouncil.com.