Dear Friends,

Governor Charlie Crist Welcome to Florida's Black History Month "African-American Art - A Look at Our Past; A Glimpse Into Our Future" Web page. Black History Month is an opportunity to honor and highlight the significant contributions of African-Americans in Florida. It is an educational opportunity for all Floridians to learn more about the men and women who courageously stood up to challenges, injustices, and legal and social barriers to pursue equality and freedom.

This year, we will shine a spotlight on those African-American pioneers who have made important contributions to the arts. African-American artists played a crucial role in changing hearts and minds, pushing our country to re-evaluate the meaning of freedom and justice for all. African-American artists are a treasured part of Florida's cultural diversity and strengthen our state's reputation as an international destination for the arts.

I invite you to use this Web site as a resource for learning about Florida's black artists and to explore our state's extraordinary heritage. There is also information about Florida's historically black colleges and universities, as well as events celebrating Black History Month. I also encourage Florida's children and young people to participate in the Black History Month art and essay contest and to nominate an African-American educator for the Excellence in Education Award.

The achievements of African-Americans are present in every facet of our state's history. As Governor, and as a strong advocate of the arts, I appreciate very much the unique impact the African-American artist community has here in Florida. It is a pleasure to celebrate this heritage not only during Black History Month, but throughout the year.

Sincerely,

Charlie Crist
Governor

The Kinsey Collection. Shared Treasures of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey
From top to bottom: 'Guest House' by Claude Clark; 'Beach Runner' by Ernie Barnes; 'Bernard and Shirley Kinsey' by Artis Lane; 'The Cultivators' by Samuel Dunson.