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Exhibit: Ancestral Soil: 1865–The Foundation of Freeman, Virginia Opening Reception at Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center (Newport News)
August 5 - August 15
Christopher Diont’e returns with “ANCESTRAL SOIL: 1865 – THE FOUNDATION OF FREEMAN, VIRGINIA.”
This multi-media exhibition will feature a mix of paintings, drawings, textiles, a garment collection and original photographs based upon the history of the artist’s family and their journey to freedom.
This project honors the legacy of Christopher’s 3rd Great-Grandfather, Ira Callis, his brother, Ruffin Callis, and the history of Freeman, VA.
“Ancestral Soil: 1865 – The Foundation of Freeman, Virginia” will be on display August 5-15, 2026 with an opening reception on August 5, 2026 from 5-9pm. At the reception, Diont’e will take patrons on an exclusive visual tour of the exhibition, explaining his exhibition, family history, and how they intertwine. Patrons will also get to contribute to a community quilt that will be created throughout the exhibition period and at the “Threads of Resilience” community workshops. Light refreshments served.
If you can’t make it to the opening or workshops, Christopher will also be present in the Community Gallery throughout the exhibit duration.
