Black History Youth Art Awareness Festival Takes the Stage Again on February 16, 2024
In 2023, the energy of the Black Youth Awareness Art Festival, a showcase of local artwork, talent and entrepreneurship from communities youth, spilled out into the streets of West Settlers’ Historic District, as the Spady Museum and CAPE Universal welcomed hundreds of new and old friends to the Black History Month event.
In 2024, the nonprofit organizations plan for a repeat performance of community, creativity and fun. The Third Annual Black Youth Awareness Art Festival will be held from 4-8 p.m. on Feb. 16, at the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, 170 NW 5th Ave., Delray Beach.
Young people will take to the stage with music, poetry/spoken word and dance. Artwork created by youth artists will line the outdoor venue, which provides a lively backdrop for the Marketplace of small business owners selling crafts and artwork. New for 2024, the festival will feature a youth performance contest.
CAPE Universal CEO Anthony Bacchus said, “the festival’s purpose is to broaden youth awareness of Black history and culture.”
Held in the museum’s backyard, the event welcomes local activists, cultural teachers, artisans, food vendors, youth musicians and performers, including a local, inclusive drum circle.
“The young people are on full display with all of their talents, ambitions, spirit and optimism taking up the stage. It’s hard not to smile at their enthusiasm for life,” said Museum Director Charlene Farrington. “The festival is wonderful opportunity to see what’s next for the arts and cultural communities.”
CALL TO JOIN! Interested young creatives are invited to contribute artwork and performances to the event. There will be 1st, 2nd and 3rd– place prizes for elementary, middle and high school students’ art submissions; and 1st, 2nd and 3rd-place prizes for the youth performances and entrepreneurship segments. Learn more at https://capeuniversal.org and/or BHYAAF.net.
CAPE Universal is a 501c3 organization, Founder and CEO Anthony Bacchus. Its mission is to empower all youth mindset through principles, cultural arts and mentorship, to develop a positive and proactive Attitude. Teaching Artists conduct drum, dance, art and music sessions through Palm Beach County schools and after schools programs. Contracted with Prime Time PBC, Boys & Girls Club PBC and several other youth empowerment program providers. The purpose for establishing the Black History festival is to stimulate the awareness of Black history and culture. CAPE is having its first annual Multicultural Youth Awareness Arts Festival in May 2024. All youth will create art relating to their own identity and culture. This will inspire them to embrace their culture an their peers culture. Contact: anthony@capeuniversal.org 561-633-3289
About the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum. Opened in 2001, the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum is the only cultural center of its kind in Palm Beach County. Located at 170 NW Fifth Avenue in Delray Beach, it is dedicated to showcasing the contributions of the African Diaspora to Florida and the U.S. Programs include exhibitions, museum tours, and community events. Hours: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; Mondays by appointment. Closed Sundays. Admission: $20; Members are free. For more information, call 561-279-8883 or visit www.spadymuseum.com
IF YOU GO:
What: Black History Youth Art Awareness Festival (BHYAAF), organized by CAPE Universal
Where: Hosted outdoors at the Spady Museum, 170 NW 5th Avenue, Delray Beach, FL
When: 4 p.m., Friday, February 16, 2024