Blackville is. . . was a socially engaged project that began with postcards with the printed phrase, Blackville is . . . These postcards were then delivered to local businesses; public and private schools; and civic and governmental agencies. Those who received a postcard were encouraged to write three words or three adjectives to complete the phrase: Blackville is . . . Participants were encouraged to create a work of art on the back of their postcard. It was to offer a visual narrative of their three words or adjectives that completed the phrase: Blackville is . . . Postcards were then dropped off either City Hall or at their local Post Office. For convenience, a black metal mailbox labeled: Blackville is . . . was placed at both locations.
After two weeks, a committee was organized to choose certain postcards. From all the postcards that were filled out, forty were chosen. These postcards spoke of family and community; racial inequality; celebration of cultural diversity; sports and hunting; agricultural economy that once was; culinary delights; and hope. The postcards statements were made into stencils then attached to a sidewalk. The community was invited to paint the statements using a sponge brush. This participatory event was intended to create an ongoing dialogue between members of the community about place, community, finding common ground and interests, while building new relationships along the way.
Blackville is. . . was funded through a grant by the South Carolina Arts Commission The Art of Community: Rural SC. Additional support came from the USDA Office of Rural Development; Blackville Community Development Corporation; Blackville Mayor Michael L. Beasley and Blackville City Council. Special thanks to Maven, Evelyn Coker, who helped to spearhead, coordinate, and manage Blackville is . . . on so many levels.
