Black Arts Bash Returns to Cheekwood August 17

Nashville, Tenn. (TN Tribune)-From morning to night, Cheekwood will celebrate Black artists with music, dance, spoken word, visual art and more. Music offerings in 2024 will be provided by the Black Opry, an organization that promotes Black artists working in country,

Americana, blues, folk and roots music. Other offerings include a community activity, story time and hands-on activities for the kids, and southern home-cooked favorites made by local Black chefs available for purchase. In addition, an exhibition of art from emerging and established artists will be on view in the Frist Learning Center.

RESERVE TICKETS

Schedule of Events

Family Activity: Learn about DeFord Bailey

Across from Botanic Hall | 9 AM – 3 PM
An influential harmonica player in both country and blues music, DeFord Bailey was one of the Grand Ole Opry’s most popular early performers and country music’s first African American star. He also learned songs in church and developed a keen ear for the music he heard around him: the chugging of trains, the baying of hounds chasing foxes, and the sounds of animals. Make your own harmonica, listen to recordings of DeFord Bailey play, and try your hand at recreating his sound.

Harmonica 101 with the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Beer Garden | 10:30 – 11:30 AM
Learn more about Bailey’s story and music during a demonstration led by Carlos DeFord Bailey, a harmonica player and DeFord Bailey’s grandson. After the performance, participants will get a chance to play along, with guidance from the pros. Youth participants will receive free Hohner harmonicas while supplies last.

Storytime with Dorena Williamson

10 AM & 10:45 AM
Dorena Williamson is a bestselling author who is passionate about showing children—and adults—that differences can be curiously explored and joyfully celebrated. Using a graceful approach, Williamson’s books tackle tough subjects with storytelling that enriches young hearts and minds.

Community Activity with XPayne and DaShawn Lewis

Arboretum Lawn | 9 AM – 6 PM

Join Nashville-based artists XPayne and DaShawn Lewis to create a community mural.

In 2022, XPayne was named “Best Artist of the Year” by the Nashville Scene following the success of his latest exhibition of works that debuted in August of the same year. He has been part of group shows and live engagements nationwide since 2014, and has completed projects for The Source Magazine, Spike Lee’s 40 Acres and a Mule Studio, and Complex.com.

DaShawn Lewis is a self-taught photographer whose work focuses on the preservation of memories and youth arts. Building community, making connections, and storytelling are components that he considers when making photographs. DaShawn Lewis’ work has been featured at the Memphis College of Art, Frist Art Museum, NKA Gallery, Scarritt Bennett Center, Hiram Van Gordon Gallery at TSU, and in the Nashville Scene.