Black Chamber of Commerce highlights Gullah art and culture

The Beaufort County Black Chamber of Commerce (BCBCC) will spotlight Gullah Geechee art, heritage and community this month through a series of cultural events at its Gullah Art Gallery and beyond.

The chamber’s October schedule features artist residencies, workshops, conversations and a two-day cultural conference, all designed to celebrate creativity and strengthen community connections in the Lowcountry.

Acclaimed Gullah Geechee artist Amiri Farris continues his residency at the Gullah Art Gallery through Oct. 18. Known for his vibrant use of color and layered textures, Farris’s work often reflects themes of personal storytelling and cultural preservation.

During his residency, the gallery will host several opportunities for the public to connect with the artist. Events include: On Oct. 16, the chamber will host its monthly BOLD Futures Series at Beaufort’s Jazz Café . The evening combines conversation, music and networking to foster dialogue and community engagement. This month’s program will also feature a special viewing of Farris’s residency works in the Gullah Art Gallery, with one last chance to purchase selected pieces by donation.

Admission is free, though reservations are required.

The month’s programming culminates with A Convening of Heirs – Reclaiming Our Culture, Land, Language & Legacy on Oct. 17–18. The two-day conference offers an immersive experience into Gullah Geechee heritage through guided tours, cultural exhibitions, campfire storytelling, culinary traditions and interactive workshops.

The event will feature keynote speaker Amadu Massally, author of The Gullah Geechee Saga: Through African Eyes. Luana Graves Sellars, founder of Lowcountry Gullah and a recipient of the Mellon GRACE Grant, will lead a workshop.

Organizers say space is limited, with bus capacity and meal accommodations designed exclusively for registered guests.

The BCBCC, a nonprofit organization, aims to foster economic and cultural growth in Beaufort County while celebrating the region’s Gullah Geechee heritage.

October’s programming is supported by the Mellon Foundation’s GRACE Initiative.

More information about events, registration and the chamber’s work is available at www.bcbcc.org.