The Picayune Carver Culture Center at 1421 Goodyear Blvd. in Picayune, MS, celebrated African Americans and the Arts during its annual Black History Month Festivities.

African American art is influenced by African, Caribbean, and Black-American experiences, evident in visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary arts, and other cultural expressions. The PC explored this theme with engaging programming during the month-long festivities.

One highlight was the return of Moo-MA Vennie’s annual in-person Black History Month storytelling, which took place at several local venues, including churches, Picayune Head Start Centers, Crosby Memorial Library, and the PCCC.

Vinner Scott, PCCC’s Director, shared an impactful moment when a young girl recognized Moo-MA Vennie, a character representing African royalty, during a storytelling event. This illustrates the center’s goal of sharing the rich history of Black culture through various forms of expression.

The PCCC also hosted an art exhibit and extended its duration due to its success. The exhibit showcased how art has historically provided commentary on societal issues, a tradition continuing in 2024.

The month-long celebration concluded with a “Taste of Soul” featuring African American culinary arts. Local community organizations collaborated to raise funds to support the PCCC’s mission and community initiatives.

The event featured collard greens, gumbo, speckled beans, hot water cornbread, and more. Local farmers and cooks contributed their specialties, and the All Occasions Truck Club manned the fryers.

Local pastors and their congregations supported the “Taste of Soul” event, promoting fellowship and community engagement. For more information on supporting or sponsoring the PC, visit their website or Facebook page.