January 22, 2007

Nova Southeastern University Hosts “Keepers of the Dream” Art Exhibition
for Black History Month
Opening Reception scheduled for February 8

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL— Nova Southeastern University (NSU) has partnered with the Oscar Thomas Foundation to present, “Keepers of the Dream,” a collection of works from local high school students which recognizes the contributions of the African Diaspora to American history, politics, spirituality, education, sports and artistic expression. The student pieces, to be displayed at NSU February 8 through March 8, were inspired by the works of renowned portrait artist and muralist Oscar Thomas.

“Keepers of the Dream” is part of the university’s African Presence 2007 Fourth Annual Art Exhibition, the highlight of the university’s Black History Month celebration, which also includes an interview with actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, drama performances, film viewing, public lectures, workshops and a community expo.

The exhibition will be displayed in the Second Floor Gallery of the Alvin Sherman Library on NSU’s main campus. An opening reception - which will include a live jazz performance by high school student group, The Future of Jazz Orchestra – will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 8.

The Oscar Thomas Foundation (OTF) was established as a vehicle to perpetuate the memory of artist Oscar Thomas, his achievements and to carry on his dream of a better life for youth, through the arts, education and community service. The OTF promotes leadership by using art as a vehicle to perpetuate freedom of self-expression in the development of imagination and creativity.

Last year’s African Presence exhibit featured a traveling exhibit of the Arts League of Michigan and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which included the commissioned work of 10 Detroit-based black artists.

“Keepers of the Dream” is sponsored by NSU’s Office of University Relations, Fischler Graduate School of Education and Human Services Office of Community Education and Diversity Affairs, and the Oscar Thomas Foundation.

For more information about  the “Keepers of the Dream” art exhibition, please call (954) 262-5357. For more information about Nova Southeastern University’s Black History Month events, please visit http://www.nova.edu/cwis/ur/blackhistory/.