Rachel James-Terry
JSU Communications
On Thursday, Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. inside Jackson State University’s Gallery1, 101 E. Capitol St, the public will meet artist Sabrina Howard at the official launch of her art exhibit ‘Who is Sabrina Howard?’
“I call myself an artist of all trades. Some people only know me as Sabrina, the graphic artist. Some people only know me as Sabrina, the fine artist. Some people think I only create props; stand-alone props for parties and events,” says the Jackson native, who received her BFA degree from the Atlanta College of Art in ’95.
By day, Howard works as a graphic artist at A2Z Printing, and in her spare time she paints, draws and creates gripping works that have been gifted to the likes of popular neo-soul singer Maxwell and comedian and actor Rickey Smiley.
Howard can often be found doing live painting as a featured artist at Synergy Nights – a creative arts spot in Jackson that allows locals and out-of-towners an opportunity to display their skills, whether it is spoken word, singing, rapping or playing a musical instrument.
Shonda McCarthy, director of JSU galleries, is spearheading the exhibit. She calls Howard an amazingly talented, truly blessed and gifted artist.
“She is a true storyteller, and emotion is conveyed in every piece. We also appreciate how some of her pieces are from recycled items. After meeting her, you can tell that she is truly passionate about her work,” explains McCarthy. “Just when you think you fell in love with one piece another one emerges. Not sure which is sweeter, her or the art. It’s a tough decision.”
Howard first remembers “creating” at the age of three and four years old. Now in her 40s and a mother of four children – one girl and three boys – Howard is ready for people to get a better sense of who she is and what she has to offer. “Most of my paintings are life stories and experiences on canvas or whatever material I decide to use. There are references to spirituality, relationships, life, and children in just about all my pieces,” says Howard. “They are directly related to me or someone close to me. They all tell a story.”
On Feb. 28, guests can watch Howard painting live while Pam Confer, jazz vocalist, sings elections from her album “Jazz Beautiful.” The event is free to the public.
Although Howard has participated in various art shows with other artists, she says: “This is my first time having just my show with just my name. This is huge for me. I’m excited. It’s different knowing that when people come to this show, they are coming to see Sabrina Howard.”
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