Orangeburg native Dr. Walter B. Curry Jr., founder of Renaissance Publications, LLC, is the recipient of FY25 South Carolina Arts Commission Arts Project Support grant.
The grant funds will support Dr. Curry’s forthcoming project titled “Through the Antebellum Period, Civil War, The Reconstruction Era & Beyond.” This initiative will feature a comprehensive exhibition that narrates the life of Dr. Curry’s ancestor, Martha Kitchings Seawright Ellison, who was born into slavery on November 20, 1849, in Aiken County.
The exhibition aims to provide a well-contextualized account of Martha’s life, emphasizing the historical backdrop of South Carolina during the antebellum period and the Civil War, which overlapped with her experience of enslavement. Additionally, it will offer insights into Martha’s journey during the Reconstruction Era across Barnwell, Orangeburg, and Aiken Counties, detailing the noteworthy events that shaped her life during this transformative period. Furthermore, the exhibition will explore the developments in Martha’s life from the post-Reconstruction era through the Gilded Age, spanning from 1875 to 1900. This comprehensive approach will not only honor her legacy but also enrich the understanding of the broader historical context in which she lived.
The exhibition will display a variety of items, including replicas, artifacts, natural specimens, visual representations, and food samples that reflect the life of Martha and her family.
It will highlight noteworthy events from the chapter titled “Through Slavery, War, The Reconstruction Era & Beyond: The Story of Martha Kitchings Seawright Ellison” found in the book “The Awakening: the Seawright-Ellison Family Saga, Vol. 1.” This curated collection aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the historical context surrounding Martha’s experiences. By incorporating diverse elements, the exhibition seeks to engage visitors and foster a deeper appreciation for the family’s legacy. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the intricate narratives woven throughout the chapter, gaining insight into the challenges and triumphs faced during pivotal moments in history.
The exhibition promises to be an enlightening experience that honors the Seawright-Ellison family’s journey.
The exhibition will be included in Dr. Curry’s initiative, Renaissance Publications & Educational Services, LLC, as part of the Author-In-Residence program within schools. This program aims to immerse students in the exploration of South Carolina and United States history, emphasizing
local and African American narratives. The objectives of the program are to enhance students’ understanding of historical contexts by integrating visual art and direct activities. This approach seeks to create meaningful opportunities for students to engage with the subject matter actively. By fostering interactions with visual art and experiential learning, the program aspires to enrich the study of both South Carolina and United States history, particularly through the lens of local and African American experiences.
The exhibition receives funding from the Arts Project Support Grants, which aim to assist artists and organizations in enhancing the quality of their arts projects, marketing efforts, and events, as well as fostering their artistic development. Eligibility for these grants extends to artists, nonprofit organizations, and government entities. To learn more and apply, visit https:// www.southcarolinaarts.com/ grant/aps/. To learn more about Dr. Curry’s work, visit www. renaissancepubllc.com or email at renaissancepublicationsllc@gmail.com.
