The Rapides Parish Library invites the public to attend the Grand Opening of the Central Louisiana African American Culture & Heritage Center at the Martin Luther King Jr. Library Branch. The grand opening celebration will be highlighted with the unveiling of a curated portrait gallery honoring African Americans of Central Louisiana who have exceptional achievements in industry, government and culture.

 

With the help of internationally-recognized artist Morris Taft Thomas and utilizing his personal relationships with top national and international artists, six world-class creatives have contributed the first thirteen portraits for the AACHC Portrait Gallery.

 

Portrait subjects being honored are:

Arnaud Wendall Bontemps

Principal David Iles

J. B. LaFargue

Colonel Katrina Lloyd

Oliver “Ollie” Overton

Juan Pierre

Dr. James Jordan Prestage, Jr.

Dr. Jewel Limar Prestage today.

Natalie Desselle Reid

Reverend Larry Douglas Smith

Dr. Clarence Talley, Sr

Amos Wesley, Jr.

Dr. Romel C. Wrenn

 

Portraits were created by these six world-class artists:

Edward Barnes

Kylen Guilbeaux

Fannietta Johnson

Joseph Anthony Pearson-

Dr. Clarence Talley, Sr.

Crystal Ann Talley

 

Don’t miss this historic grand opening and unveiling, Saturday, Feb. 24 at 11 a.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Library Branch, located at 1115 Broadway Avenue in Alexandria. This event will also be streamed live on the library’s Facebook page.

 

If you plan to attend, please RSVP to 318.445.3912 by Feb. 14. Contact 318.445.3912 for more information.